Why I Book All My Stays Online (and My Favourite Sites to Use)

Let’s be honest…scoring the perfect place to stay while traveling feels a bit like winning the vacation lottery. Over the years, I’ve figured out one thing: the key isn’t just “where” you stay, it’s “where” you book it!

And lucky for us, the internet is packed with amazing platforms that do the heavy lifting. From boutique hostels in Thailand to 5-star resorts in Dubai, here’s why I book all my stays online and my favourite sites to help you do the same.

1. Booking.com: For the Ultimate Variety

When I want options for every budget, Booking.com is my go-to. Whether I’m in the mood for a cozy guesthouse or a luxury escape, I know I’ll find it here, plus, they often offer free cancellation, which has saved me more than once when my plans changed last minute.

2. Expedia: Bundle & Save

If you’re all about bundling flights, hotels, and car rentals, Expedia is the move. I love using it for package deals when I want to book everything in one go and their reward points actually add up fast!

3. Kayak: The Deal Hunter’s Secret

I use Kayak when I’m in full bargain-hunting mode. Their price comparison feature checks a bunch of platforms at once, so I can see who’s offering the best deal—and their “Price Alert” tool is perfect if you're booking ahead.

4. TripAdvisor: Real Reviews, Real Insight

If I’m ever unsure about a property, I head straight to TripAdvisor. The reviews are gold! They are written by fellow travellers, not bots—and the site lets you book directly or compare prices across platforms like Booking.com, Agoda, and more.

5. Agoda: Best for Asia & Hidden Gems

For trips around Asia, Agoda is a hidden gem. Great in finding some incredible boutique hotels and last-minute discounts on here that didn’t even show up on other sites.

Pro Tip: Shop Around & Stack Rewards

I often check multiple platforms before I book, to research on what’s cheap on one site might be discounted even more somewhere else. Plus, sign up for loyalty programs! Expedia Rewards, Genius on Booking.com, and TripAdvisor Plus all offer exclusive perks and extra discounts.

Gone are the days of showing up to a hotel with no reservation and hoping for the best. Booking online means better prices, better choices, and a better experience with the bonus of reward points, free cancellations, and travel tools at your fingertips.

So next time you’re planning a getaway, try one (or all!) of these platforms. I’ve used them and they’ve saved me time, money, and plenty of headaches.