How to Save Money on Your Next Hotel or Apartment Booking

Whether you're planning a beachside escape to Glenelg, a business trip to Adelaide, or a weekend away with friends, one thing is always true: travel can get expensive fast. But here’s the good news. With a few innovative strategies, you can save money on your next hotel or apartment booking without sacrificing comfort or quality.

At Durham Serviced Apartments, we believe that value matters. We’ve put together some insider tips to help you stretch your travel budget further and maybe even treat yourself to that extra night away.

1. Book Direct with the Property

This is the easiest and often the most overlooked way to save money. Third-party booking websites take a commission, which means you may not always get the best rate, even if it appears to be the case.

When you book directly through our website, you’ll:

• Instantly receive 10% off your stay

• Gain access to exclusive local discounts, including offers at Glenelg’s favourite spots like Temptation Sailing, Fourth, Yo-Chi, and Ballet Wine Bar.

• Get the best availability and flexibility on room types and dates

Additionally, direct bookings facilitate easier communication of special requests or preferences with our team. No middleman needed.

2. Travel Off-Peak

Peak travel times, such as school holidays, long weekends, and major local events, typically coincide with higher prices and limited availability. If your dates are flexible, consider visiting during quieter periods for better rates.

For example:

• Glenelg is just as beautiful in late autumn or early spring

• Weekday stays are often more affordable than Friday and Saturday nights

• Avoid booking around major events like the Adelaide Fringe unless you’re planning to attend

At Durham, we offer special seasonal rates throughout the year. Keeping an eye on timing can make a real difference.

3. Stay Longer and Save

Many serviced apartments and hotels offer discounts for extended stays. This is especially helpful for travellers who are:

• Relocating

• On business trips

• Visiting family for more than a weekend

At Durham Serviced Apartments, our Stay Longer & Save deal gives you discounted rates when you book five nights or more. It’s perfect for an extended coastal getaway or working holiday.

4. Use a Kitchen Instead of Eating Out

One of the easiest ways to burn through your travel budget is eating out for every meal. While hotel rooms typically don’t offer much more than a minibar, serviced apartments like those at Durham come with fully equipped kitchenettes, so you can:

• Prep breakfast and coffee before heading out

• Enjoy takeaway meals in comfort

• Cook a local market-inspired dinner with fresh produce

Even replacing one or two meals a day with home-style cooking can save hundreds throughout a trip.

5. Skip the Extras You Don’t Need

Fancy hotel extras, such as valet parking, daily housekeeping, or room service, can significantly increase your bill. Serviced apartments give you more independence and fewer hidden costs. You’ll have:

• Laundry facilities in your room

• Free Wi-Fi and thoughtful amenities are included in every stay

At Durham, we focus on what matters: comfort, space, and style without charging for what you don’t use.

6. Consider a Group Stay

Travelling with family or friends? Booking multiple hotel rooms can quickly become expensive. But at Durham, our two-bedroom apartments can comfortably accommodate small groups. You’ll enjoy more space for less money than booking multiple hotel rooms.

Split the cost, share meals, and enjoy time together without sacrificing privacy. It’s a bright and fun way to travel.

7. Read the Fine Print

Always verify the details before booking. Look out for:

• Extra cleaning fees

• Cancellation policies

• Parking charges

• Taxes or service fees are added at checkout

When you book directly with Durham, everything is clearly outlined. We’re always here to help if you have questions.

8. Use Discounts and Promo Codes

If you’re part of a professional group, a member of an association, or even just a newsletter subscriber, you may be eligible for discount codes. At Durham, our partner compendium includes perks for guests who book direct, including deals with some of Glenelg’s most-loved restaurants and activities.

It’s our way of helping you get more from your stay for less.

9. Follow Your Favourite Places on Social Media

Many hotels and serviced apartments promote last-minute deals or competitions exclusively through their social media channels. Following Durham on Instagram and Facebook ensures you won’t miss out on giveaways, flash sales, or announcements for special events like Glenelg’s Christmas Pageant or Jetty Road festivals.

Final Thoughts

Saving money on your next hotel or apartment booking doesn’t mean compromising on comfort. With the right approach, such as booking direct, planning, and choosing flexible, value-packed accommodation like Durham Serviced Apartments, you can enjoy a better experience for less.

Whether you’re here for a relaxing weekend by the sea or an extended work trip, Durham gives you the space, style, and savings you’re looking for.

Book direct now and enjoy 10% off your stay, along with exclusive partner offers to make your Glenelg getaway even more rewarding.