When you’re looking for somewhere to stay, platforms such as Airbnb and Booking.com can make finding accommodation quick and convenient. However, once you’ve found a property you like, it’s worth checking whether you can book directly with the accommodation provider.
Booking direct can offer a number of advantages, from better value and a more personalised service to a simpler booking experience.
Here are some of the biggest reasons to consider booking your next stay directly.
1. Better Value for Your Money
One of the biggest benefits of booking direct is the potential (or guarantee if booking with N & N Stays) to get a better overall price.
Online travel agencies such as Airbnb and Booking.com charge fees to guests, hosts, or both. These platform fees form part of the overall cost of a booking and can sometimes make a stay considerably more expensive.
When you book directly, you are dealing with the accommodation provider directly, meaning:
- Lower overall booking costs
- No third party guest service fees
- Access to direct booking discounts
- Better rates for longer stays
- More flexibility with pricing
For guests staying for several nights, weeks or even longer, the savings from booking direct can become particularly significant. With N & N Stays we offer tailored rates for each enquiry.
2. Direct Communication With Your Host
When you book through a platform, there can sometimes be an extra layer between you and the person managing the property.
With a direct booking, you communicate directly with the accommodation provider from the beginning.
This means you can ask questions about the property, parking, check-in, local facilities, amenities or anything else you need to know before making your booking.
It also means that if you have a question during your stay, you know exactly who to contact.
3. More Flexibility for Longer Stays
If you’re travelling for work, relocating, working on a construction project or planning an extended trip, booking direct can be particularly beneficial.
You may be able to discuss:
- Long term or extended stay discounts
- Flexible check-in arrangements
- Midstay cleaning
- Additional linen or towels
- Specific accommodation requirements
- Multiple properties for larger teams
Instead of selecting from standard options presented by a booking platform, you can have a conversation about what you actually need.
4. Better for Contractors and Business Travellers
Direct booking can be particularly useful for contractors, tradespeople and business travellers who need accommodation for several weeks or months.
Work related stays are often different from holidays. You may need practical accommodation with:
- Multiple bedrooms
- Parking
- A kitchen and laundry facilities
- Reliable Wi-Fi
- Easy access to major roads or work sites
- Regular cleaning
- Flexible stay lengths
Booking directly allows you to discuss these requirements with the accommodation provider and find a property that works for your team.
It can also make repeat bookings much easier. Once you’ve found accommodation that works for your team, you can return directly rather than starting the search again on a booking platform.
5. A Direct Relationship for Future Bookings
Perhaps you’ve stayed somewhere and loved it.
Instead of searching through hundreds of listings the next time you visit the area, booking direct gives you the opportunity to establish a relationship with the accommodation provider.
You may be able to contact them directly about future availability, repeat-guest rates or longer stays.
For contractors and companies who regularly send employees to the same areas, this can be especially valuable.
6. You Still Get the Convenience of Professional Accommodation
Booking direct doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing the convenience you expect from platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com.
Professional serviced accommodation providers can still offer:
- Online booking
- Secure payment
- Digital check-in information
- Professional cleaning
- Fully furnished properties
- Linen and towels
- Wi-Fi
- Customer support
- Clear house rules and booking terms
The difference is that you’re dealing directly with the company responsible for your stay.
When booking with N & N Stays, you get all of the above!
7. Supporting Independent Accommodation Businesses
When you book directly, more of your booking value goes towards the accommodation business itself rather than being shared with a third-party booking platform.
This helps independent accommodation providers continue investing in their properties, cleaning teams, maintenance and guest services.
In turn, that can help create a better experience for future guests.
Booking Direct Doesn’t Have to Mean Complicated
For many travellers, booking through Airbnb or Booking.com is the first step in finding accommodation. But it doesn’t necessarily have to be the final step.
If you’ve found a property you like, search for the accommodation provider’s own website and see whether they accept direct bookings.
You could discover a better rate, more flexible options and a more personal level of service.
Next time you’re planning a business trip, contractor stay, family break or extended visit, take a moment to check the direct booking option before you book.
You might find that booking direct gives you better value, greater flexibility and a much more personal experience.