Booking vacation rentals can be a great way to save money or get more space, but there are definitely a few tips and tricks to help you score the best deal and avoid pitfalls. Here are five top booking hacks:

1. Book Early or Last Minute

· Early Booking: Booking a vacation rental months in advance can often guarantee the best selection, especially if you're traveling to a popular destination. Early bookings might also lock in lower prices before demand ramps up.

· Last-Minute Deals: On the other hand, if you're flexible, some platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com offer discounted rates on unsold properties closer to the travel date. This works particularly well in off-season periods.

2. Use Multiple Platforms

· Different booking sites sometimes have different inventory or exclusive deals. Don’t just rely on one. In addition to mainstream options like Airbnb and Vrbo, check Booking.com, Expedia, or even local rental agencies. Occasionally, properties listed on multiple platforms have slightly different prices or added fees.

· Tip: Cheapernights.com allows you to easily compare the prices of a vacation rental found on one platform with duplicate listings elsewhere. This can help you avoid high service fees and take advantage of promotions

3. Message Hosts for Negotiation

· If you’re staying for an extended period, or if you're booking in the off-season, you can often negotiate the price with the host directly. Many hosts will be willing to offer discounts for longer stays, or if they haven’t had many bookings recently.

· Tip: Be polite and respectful when reaching out. A personal message (vs. a generic request) can help establish rapport, and you may even score a free upgrade or a discount.

4. Check the Total Price, Not Just the Base Rate

· Always look beyond the nightly rate and pay close attention to cleaning fees, service charges, taxes, and additional guest fees. These extra costs can add up quickly and make what seemed like a great deal less attractive.

· Some platforms allow you to sort by total price (including all fees), so this will give you a more accurate comparison of different properties.

5. Look for New Listings or Recently Reduced Prices

· New listings sometimes offer lower rates to attract their first guests and get good reviews. These properties can be a hidden gem, but you may want to double-check reviews from other sites or ask the host questions before booking.

· Additionally, if a rental has been available for a while but isn’t booked, the host may lower the price to try to get a booking. Keep an eye on these listings, especially if you're flexible about dates.

Bonus: Consider Alternative Locations

· Instead of booking a rental in the main tourist area, consider staying just outside of it. You can often find a rental in a quieter, less expensive area that's still easily accessible to major attractions. The cost savings can be significant, especially in larger cities or popular tourist spots.

With these strategies, you can increase your chances of scoring the best deal and having a smooth vacation rental experience. Use Cheapernights.com to ensure you get the very best price when booking!