With the surge of travelers who are exploring the Philippines, finding good and safe accommodation at a reasonable price is always a top priority. So why not get ahead of the game with 19 tips for finding affordable accommodation in the Philippines?
Tips include planning the location, avoiding peak season, choosing hostels, considering bookings with free cancellation, joining rewards programs, using credit card points, signing up for e-newsletters, booking online, and more. Follow these tips to save money on your accommodations and have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Take advantage of our resources so you can make your dream vacation become reality without breaking your bank account.
1. Plan the location wisely
The cost of accommodation can vary greatly depending on the location. Cities like Manila and Cebu tend to be more expensive compared to other regions, so consider staying in smaller cities or tourist destinations.
Research the area beforehand and choose a location that offers both affordable accommodations and the activities you’re interested in. Additionally, staying in areas close to public transportation can also help you save on transportation costs.
2. Avoid staying only one day in your accommodation
Most hotels and hostels have a minimum stay requirement, and a one-night stay often costs more than a longer stay. If you plan to stay in a place for a short period, look for places that offer daily rates instead of nightly rates, or consider staying in a budget hostel or guesthouse.
Additionally, booking a room for a longer period can often result in discounts and special deals.
3. Consider staying on Sundays
Accommodation rates tend to be lower on weekends, especially on Sundays, when demand is lower. If you have the flexibility to travel on weekends, consider staying in your destination on Sundays to save on accommodation costs.
However, it’s important to book in advance as popular destinations may still be fully booked on weekends.
4. Travel during the middle of the week
Accommodation rates tend to be lower from Monday to Thursday when the demand for travel is lower. If you have the flexibility to travel during the week, consider booking your accommodation during these days to save money. However, it’s important to check the rates in advance as some destinations may still be fully booked during the week.
5. Choose to travel during the shoulder season
Accommodation rates are often lower during the shoulder season, which is the period between a peak and off-peak season. This can vary depending on the destination, but it’s typically a time when the weather is still good but the crowds are smaller.
Consider traveling during shoulder season to save on accommodation costs, but be sure to check for any local events or holidays that may increase demand and rates.
6. Share costs by booking suites or apartments
If you’re traveling with a group, consider booking a suite or apartment instead of individual hotel rooms. This can be a more affordable option as the cost is shared among the group.
Additionally, you’ll have more space, privacy, and amenities compared to a standard hotel room. Just make sure to clearly communicate with your traveling companions and divide the costs fairly.
7. Choose a hostel
Hostels are a budget-friendly option for solo travelers or small groups. They offer basic dormitory-style rooms or private rooms at a lower cost than hotels. Most hostels also have shared facilities such as kitchens and common areas, which can help you save money on meals.
Just be prepared for a more social and less private experience, and always check for the location, cleanliness, and safety reviews before booking.
8. Accommodate near the location’s town
Accommodate near the town center. Staying near the town center can help you save on transportation costs as you’ll have easy access to public transportation and local attractions.
Consider booking a budget hotel or hostel in the town center, or look for Airbnb options in residential areas. Just be aware that the closer you are to the town center, the higher the accommodation rates may be, so weigh the cost savings against the convenience and location.
9. Consider booking with free cancellation
Booking accommodations with a free cancellation option can give you more flexibility in case your plans change. This way, if you find a better deal or if your plans change, you can easily cancel your booking without having to pay any penalties. Just be sure to read the terms and conditions of the cancellation policy before booking.
10. Check the food options
Staying in a place with limited food options can quickly add up in expenses, so consider choosing a location that has a kitchen or access to nearby grocery stores. If you’re staying in a hotel or hostel, research the nearby dining options and compare the prices to make sure they fit your budget.
You may also want to consider booking a room with breakfast included, which can help you save money on meals.
11. Facilities affect the cost
Accommodation prices can vary based on the facilities offered, such as a private bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. Consider your needs and prioritize the most important amenities, as paying for extra facilities you don’t need can increase the cost.
Additionally, some budget accommodations may not have all the facilities you’re used to, so be prepared to compromise on certain amenities in exchange for lower costs.
12. Consider the number of companions when booking rooms
Booking a room with more beds can often be more cost effective than booking multiple rooms. If you’re traveling with a group, consider booking a family room or a suite instead of individual rooms to save money.
Additionally, some accommodations offer discounts for children or extra guests, so be sure to ask about any special rates.
13. Look for family promotions and discounts
Many accommodations offer special promotions and discounts for families, so be sure to ask about them when booking. These promotions can include discounts on room rates or free meals for children.
Research online or contact the accommodation directly to find out about any family promotions or discounts they may offer.
14. Join rewards programs
Many hotel chains and travel websites offer loyalty programs that can help you save on future trips. Consider signing up for these programs and earning points or rewards that can be redeemed for discounts on accommodations, flights, and more.
Just be sure to read the terms and conditions of each program to understand how you can earn and redeem rewards.
15. Utilize your Credit Card Points
If you have a credit card with rewards points, consider using your points to book accommodations. Many credit card rewards programs allow you to redeem points for hotel stays, flights, and more.
Just be sure to check the terms and conditions of your credit card rewards program to understand how you can redeem your points for accommodations and compare the value to other options to make sure it’s the best choice for your budget.
16. Check the location’s social media
Many accommodations have a presence on social media, where they may post promotions and special offers. Follow the social media accounts of your preferred accommodations to stay updated on the latest deals and discounts.
Additionally, checking the location’s social media can give you a better understanding of the facilities and services offered, as well as the surrounding area and local attractions.
17. Clear your browser history and cookies
Some travel websites track your search history and raise the prices of accommodations based on your location and browsing behavior. To avoid this, clear your browser history and cookies before searching for accommodations to ensure that you are getting the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
Consider searching for accommodations in incognito mode to prevent your search history from being tracked.
18. Sign up for an e-newsletter
Many travel websites and accommodations offer e-newsletters that provide updates on promotions, discounts, and special offers. Consider signing up for these newsletters to stay informed of the latest deals and save money on your accommodations.
Just be sure to read the terms and conditions of each newsletter and make sure you’re comfortable with the frequency and content before subscribing.
19. Book online
Booking accommodations online can often be more cost-effective than booking through a travel agent or over the phone. Many travel websites and accommodations offer exclusive discounts and promotions for bookings made online, so be sure to compare prices and deals before making a reservation.
Booking online can be more convenient, as you can easily compare prices, view photos and read reviews, and make a reservation from the comfort of your own home.
In conclusion
Whether you’re a long-term traveler or just taking a quick vacation, finding affordable accommodation can be essential to making your Philippine getaway an enjoyable and cost-effective experience.
By following the 19 Tips for Finding Affordable Accommodation in the Philippines listed above, you can be sure to find exactly what you’re looking for and stay within your budget while making the most of your trip.
From searching online to asking locals where to stay, there are so many options available that you are bound to have a successful and cost-effective stay anywhere in the Philippines.
