5 Ways To Maximize Your Savings at a Vacation Rental

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Compare the Costs of Similar Properties Read Listings Carefully — And If You Have Questions, Ask Check Cancellation Policies, Especially If You’re Booking Early Ask for a Discount Consider Renting a Single Room

Budget-conscious travelers often consider booking an Airbnb or VRBO rather than a hotel to save money. But are you really saving?

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Going.com spokesperson and travel expert Katy Nastro shared some tips to ensure you’re getting the most value out of your stay.

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Compare the Costs of Similar Properties

Searching for the perfect Airbnb for your trip can be overwhelming. When you’re comparing prices, make sure you understand what each host is providing.

Due to new Federal Trade Commission rules, vacation rentals must disclose the full price of a stay before you book. That means you’ll see any cleaning fees, pet fees, additional guest fees, service fees and taxes, so you can be sure you’re comparing rentals with similar offerings.

If two properties cost the same but one charges additional guest fees and higher cleaning fees, the property without as many added costs might be the better value.

“You aren’t sent down a rabbit hole of booking, only to find at checkout your total cost is far greater due to added fees,” Nastro said.

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Read Listings Carefully — And If You Have Questions, Ask

Some vacation rental hosts request that guests bring their own bed linens and towels, extra toilet paper, paper towels and other household goods. This can add costs, as well as time and hassle, to your vacation.

Read listings carefully to know what’s included and, if you aren’t sure, it’s OK to ask the host.

Check Cancellation Policies, Especially If You’re Booking Early

“Hosts can be pretty unforgiving at times,” Nastro said.

No matter how much you can save booking an Airbnb, you could be out a lot of money if plans change and you need to cancel. If you’re booking a long way out, consider purchasing travel insurance through Airbnb or a third-party travel insurance company.

Ask for a Discount

Many travelers don’t know that Airbnb rates are negotiable, depending on the host. The secret? The closer to your trip it is, the better chance of getting a deal.

Simply write to the host and make them an offer; many hosts will counter with a price that falls in between your offer and the original price.

Consider Renting a Single Room

Many people rent an Airbnb for the extra space they will have if they are traveling in a large group or as a family. But solo travelers can save, as well, by renting a room within an Airbnb, which is often cheaper than a room in a 2- or 3-star hotel, Nastro said.

“Single room options are often at least 30% to 40% less expensive than a whole-home option,” she explained.

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