We have found that the older we’re getting the more comfortable we want to be, gone are the days of sharing a bathroom, hearing a chorus of snores in a hostel, okay we only ever did that like once and it wasn’t for us.
We’re backpackers but we’re also not, we’re digital nomads as we work online and travel, the only home we own is a van so that makes us van lifers right? We’re not sure if any labels could truly define us.
What we do know is that we like comfortable stays, we want the comfy big bed, fluffy towels, a nice working space, preferably a pool but that’s rarely in our budget. We want luxury but on a backpacker budget. Is this possible you ask?
Well not really because everything’s bloody expensive these days but we do have a few hacks and tips to help bring down the cost. Sometimes we are met by generosity and kindness and hosts are happy to have guests, rather than leave the space empty, they want to share their piece of paradise and we’re here for it!
Let’s get started!
1. Google Image Search
Use the google reverse image search to find the hosts direct booking website, avoiding Airbnb fees and taxes!
Using the picture of the Airbnb you’re interested in, right click – search image with google- and it will bring up the direct website (if it has one) this will guarantee a cheaper booking as you’ll be avoiding the extra fees and taxes, sorry Airbnb but saving money where possible is what we’re all about!
Another little tip, keep an eye out in the listings pictures, sometimes it has the name of the company which you can then easily google.
2. Negotiate Directly with the Host
Time to ask for a cheeky discount. Now some people don’t like asking for discounts because they feel weird about it, not us we have no shame in asking hosts for discounts and it’s saved us thousands over the last decade!
The hosts have the discretion to create a special offer. There’s no harm in asking as they’ll either say no or they’ll try and meet you closer to your budget.
From personal experience we’ve had some lovely interactions with very kind hosts all over the world, even now I’m writing this from a fancy Airbnb in Costa Rica with a private pool, which we would never usually be able to afford, but the host dropped the price down by £300 and it made our pool dreams a reality.
You really and truly need to let go of the ego and get your haggle on. You don’t get if you don’t ask!
3. Low Season Discount
Try and book during off seasons for a discounted rate. During rainy season, most hosts drop their prices. Hosts are really keen to have people stay during these times when bookings are lower than usual and we have found that they are more open to give discounts during this time.
Try and stay midweek as weekends are generally more expensive.
4. Extend your Stay
The longer you stay the more discount you’ll get. We’ve had 50-60% off for monthly stays, even weekly stays they usually add a discount. If you’re anything like us and don’t plan ahead, this can work in your favour as hosts are usually open to offer last minute discounts.
5. Where’s the Reviews at?
This might not be everyone’s cup of tea because if you’re anything like us we prefer to stay at places with lots of reviews and we don’t tend to book new listings.
Lately we’ve been more open to new properties and we’ve found that with new listings or ones that don’t have many reviews, the hosts are interested in getting their properties out there and having more feedback to help grow and expand their bookings.
These hosts are more likely to give a discount in exchange for a positive review. Obviously it’s a bit of a gamble, but generally new hosts make an extra effort to ensure your comfort and we like to gauge the vibe of the host when we’re messaging and read their profile and if they have any reviews on any other properties.
Be extra cautious when booking new properties that have no reviews and no prior hosting experience because the listing could be fake, which does happen. Rest assured though that Airbnb will have your back with their protection policy.
We ourselves got caught out in Copenhagen with a rusty, abandoned camper van, which didn’t quite match the photos to say the least. Luckily Airbnb not only refunded us but paid for one night of emergency accommodation. These things happen but it’s all a story to tell!
6. Cash Only
Okay, so this one’s a little under the table, but we’ve done this several times and sometimes you just have to take a risk! Find your dream Airbnb and message the host, explain your situation and that your on a tight budget and put it out there to see if they would be open for one or two nights through Airbnb and the rest cash at a discounted rate.
This decreases the Airbnb fees and taxes and you still get the security of being partially on Airbnb and you have 14 days after checkout to submit a review.
We’ve taken the risk before and rented the property outside of airbnb and fully in cash, it can save you a lot of money but you have to consider the risks.
If you do go fully cash, just remember you wont have the Airbnb safety net if anything goes wrong but generally speaking in our experience, if we’ve had a good feeling from the host and the reviews are good on the property we’ll go for it!
7. New Bestie
Every time you stay in a new Airbnb and if all went well, save the hosts number and if your visiting that place again in the future you can reach out to the host directly to cut out the middle man.
Hosts would much rather rent their properties to somebody they know who can be trusted and it’s less hassle for them.
I know we keeping saying it but it’s always a win if you can avoid the Airbnb’s fees and taxes. Some hosts have numerous other properties or connections in the area. It’s all about who you know!