Smart strategies for comparing deals, avoiding hidden costs, and getting real value for your money.
Booking hotels can feel like a game of cat and mouse — prices shift daily, offers pop up and vanish, and every site claims to have the lowest rate. The good news? With a bit of know-how, you can spot genuine bargains and avoid the traps that quietly inflate your total bill.
Compare Across Multiple Booking Platforms
Start your search by checking several booking sites — including Voyasure.com, of course.
Unlike many booking platforms, Voyasure doesn’t use algorithms to manipulate or personalise prices.
We believe in transparent pricing — no hidden mark-ups, no tricks, no inflated rates, and no “different prices for different people.” What you see is what everyone sees, every time.
It may sound enticing to think hotels would offer cheaper rates directly, but they generally don’t. Most have rate parity agreements with online travel agencies (OTAs), meaning they may not want to undercut each other on price. Some travel reviews indicate they may match at the best.
Each site may package prices differently, so it’s important to compare apples to apples, not apples to oranges. Look beyond the headline rate. Check:
Cancellation policy – is it fully flexible or non-refundable?
Board type – are meals included?
Taxes and fees – is the total amount displayed?
A rate that looks cheaper may actually include fewer benefits or stricter conditions.
Understand What “Board Types” Really Mean
Many travellers overlook how much meal plans can affect the total cost. Here’s a quick guide:
Room Only / No Extras – just the accommodation, no meals.
Bed & Breakfast (B&B) – includes daily breakfast.
Half Board – breakfast and dinner, but drinks often excluded.
Full Board – breakfast, lunch, and dinner, usually without drinks.
All-Inclusive – meals, snacks, drinks, and sometimes activities.
Choosing the right board type depends on your travel style. If you plan to explore local restaurants, room-only might save you money. If you prefer convenience or are staying somewhere remote, a half-board or all-inclusive option could actually be better value.
Watch for Local Fees and Taxes
Some countries may impose local taxes or levies on travellers that booking sites may not be able to charge in advance, as these fees can change between the time of booking and check-in. Such charges might include a tourist tax, city tax, or environmental levy, which are usually payable on arrival and often labelled as “pay at property.”
These kinds of fees are common across many European countries, and are also applied in destinations such as the Maldives, New Zealand, and the United States. Note that the amount may vary between cities — for example, New York City currently has one of the highest hotel taxes in the U.S.
(Australian citizens are exempt from this tax in New Zealand.) In Bali, a tourist levy is charged to all international visitors.
Most booking platforms will display any disclosed mandatory fees before you confirm your reservation, but the payment itself typically occurs at the hotel. Always read the fine print to avoid unwelcome surprises at check-out.
Check Room Types and Bedding Configurations
When comparing rates across sites, make sure you’re looking at the same room type. Room names and descriptions are generally consistent — “Deluxe King,” “Garden View Twin,” “Oceanfront Suite,” and so on.
Also, pay attention to bedding configuration (king vs twin beds, sofa bed options, etc.), as these details can affect the price and suitability for your group.
A little extra time confirming these details can save both money and headaches later.
Understand Payment Options and Surcharges
Payment terms can make a big difference to your overall cost.
Some booking sites let you pay on arrival, but be aware that properties usually charge in their local currency. That can expose you to:
International merchant fees
Exchange rate changes (between booking and check-in)
Foreign currency transaction fees
In addition, some hotels charge their own credit card processing fees at the counter.
If you pay upfront, check that your booking platform doesn’t add a card surcharge. At Voyasure, we don’t charge any payment processing fees for your bookings — what you see is what you pay. To avoid extra charges from your bank, make sure your card account is in the same currency as your booking and review your bank’s other policies. For example, exceeding your credit limit or triggering a declined transaction may attract a dishonour fee from your bank.
Final Tips for Getting the Best Deal
Compare total costs — not just the nightly rate.
Choose the right board plan for your travel style.
Double-check room types, policies, and inclusions.
Be mindful of local fees payable on arrival.
Use secure, low-fee payment options.
Book early if your travel dates are fixed — flexibility is often what finds you the best bargains.
Booking the cheapest hotel stays isn’t about luck — it’s about being informed. When you take time to compare properly, understand inclusions, and read the fine print, you’ll know whether that “deal” is truly a deal.
And that’s what makes a traveller not just thrifty — but savvy.