Choosing the right accommodation can make or break your trip. There is no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to choosing accommodation. We all travel differently, have different priorities and different budgets.
I would describe myself as someone between a budget traveler and you only live once. I try to save money where it makes sense, but not at the expense of having a great experience.
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For me, researching a destination is part of the fun, and choosing where to stay is just as important as deciding what to see.
Before I book anything, I ask myself one simple question:
What do I want this trip to feel like?
The answer usually makes the decision much easier.
- City break → stay close to the city center.
- Nature trip → look for accommodation near hiking trails or national parks.
- Beach holiday → being within walking distance of the beach is worth paying a little more.
- Road trip → easy parking is often more important than the location itself.
Here are a few things I always consider before booking.
Location
I am that friend who always says, “Let’s walk. It’s not that far.”
Staying in the city center usually saves me both time and money. I don’t have to think about bus schedules, taxis or whether it’s safe to walk back late at night. If I need a break during the day, I can simply return to my room before heading out again.
Of course, the best location depends on the type of trip you’re taking. Sometimes being close to nature or having free parking is much more valuable than being in the center.
Safety
When I travel alone, I always pay attention to the neighborhood.
I’d rather stay a little closer to the places I’ll be visiting than save a few euros and feel uncomfortable walking back after dark.
This doesn’t mean avoiding local neighborhoods. It simply means doing a little research beforehand by checking recent reviews, Google Maps and the surrounding area.
Private Bathroom
A private bathroom is very high on my priority list, but that’s simply my personal preference.
I’m a very social person, but after a full day of exploring, I appreciate having my own space. If you don’t mind sharing a bathroom, you’ll usually find more affordable accommodation options.
Hostel, Hotel, Apartment or Guesthouse?
Each option has its advantages.
- Hostels are perfect for solo travelers who want to meet people and usually offer the best prices.
- Hotels are a great choice if you value comfort, privacy and convenience.
- Apartments work especially well for families, groups or longer stays. Having a kitchen can also help reduce food expenses.
- Guesthouses and homestays often provide a more personal experience and can be a great choice for longer stays or travelers who want to experience local hospitality.
There isn’t a right or wrong choice—only the one that fits your trip.
Compare More Than One Website
There are thousands of accommodation options online, and not everything looks the same in real life.
I usually compare prices on more than one booking platform before making a decision. I also pay close attention to recent reviews rather than only looking at the overall rating.
One thing I always do is check the photos uploaded by previous guests. They often give a much more realistic impression than the professional photos provided by the property.
Communication
If I have a question before booking, I simply ask.
A quick, polite and helpful reply often tells me how the accommodation will treat its guests after check-in.
Of course, it’s also worth remembering that communication styles differ from country to country, so I always try to keep that in mind.
Flexible Cancellation
Whenever possible, I book accommodation with free cancellation.
Sometimes I pay a few euros more for this option because it gives me peace of mind. Plans change, flights get delayed and unexpected things happen. Having flexibility is often worth the small extra cost.
Check for Hidden Costs
Before booking, I always check what’s included in the final price.
Some extra charges to look out for include:
- city tax
- parking
- breakfast
- cleaning fee
- luggage storage
- air conditioning
- Wi-Fi
A cheaper room isn’t always the cheaper option once all the additional fees are included.
Small Details That Can Make a Big Difference
Depending on the trip, I also look for things like:
- windows that open (yes, this is surprisingly important to me!)
- luggage storage before check-in or after check-out
- a kitchen for longer stays
- laundry facilities
- a quiet neighborhood if you’ll be working remotely
- breakfast, but only if it actually saves money compared to eating elsewhere
These details may seem insignificant, but they can make your stay much more comfortable.
The perfect accommodation doesn’t exist. The right one is the one that fits the kind of trip you’re planning.
Planning the Rest of Your Trip
Once my accommodation is booked, I usually start checking tours, day trips and other activities. I compare both GetYourGuide and Viator because their options and prices can differ depending on the destination.
Take a look at my other Travel Tips for practical advice that can help you prepare before you leave.
And I’d love to know—what’s the first thing you check before booking accommodation?