Booking Direct - How to Book Smart and Stay Safe
Booking directly with a Host is one of the best ways to save money and enjoy a more personal travel experience.
When you book through Stay Sava, you're connecting directly with verified Hosts - not a large online agency. That means you keep more money in your pocket and support small, independent accommodation providers.
But as with any direct booking, it's important to know a few best practices.
Here are some simple tips to help you book direct with confidence.
1. Confirm You're Dealing with a Genuine Host
Before paying any deposit, make sure you've verified the Host and the property.
On Stay Sava, every Host is required to provide accurate business and contact information - but it's still smart to do your own checks:
- Look for the Host's official website or business name.
- Check for consistent contact details (phone, email, ABN, etc.).
- Read recent reviews or look up the property's name online to confirm it's legitimate.
✅ Tip: If the Host can provide an ABN or is listed on tourism or council accommodation registers, that's a great sign.
2. Don't Pay Too Large a Deposit
Every business handles deposits differently, but as a Guest, you should always feel comfortable with the terms.
A reasonable deposit is typically between 20-40% of the total booking value for smaller or independent Hosts.
If a Host requests full payment upfront, especially well in advance of your stay, ask for:
- A written confirmation or tax invoice, and
- Clear cancellation and refund terms.
💡 Stay Sava Tip: Avoid paying a full amount months ahead unless it's through a secure booking system or for peak-season dates.
3. Use Secure Payment Methods
Always use traceable and secure payment methods - such as:
- Credit or debit card through a secure booking system,
- PayPal, or
- Bank transfer to a verified business account.
Avoid sending money to personal accounts or via apps that don't offer buyer protection.
4. Get All Booking Details in Writing
Whether it's an invoice, a confirmation email, or a message exchange - always make sure you have your:
- Booking dates and total cost,
- Deposit and payment schedule,
- Cancellation policy,
- Check-in and check-out details, and
- Host contact information.
Having this in writing protects both you and the Host and prevents misunderstandings later.
5. Ask About Special Offers or Discounts
When you book direct, you can often save even more or receive added value:
- Discounted rates for longer stays,
- Off-peak or last-minute offers,
- Complimentary extras like early check-in or local recommendations.
Stay Sava even allows Guests to "Make an Offer" for off-peak or extended bookings - something no big booking site allows.
6. Understand the Cancellation Policy
Before confirming, make sure you understand how cancellations and refunds work.
A good Host will clearly state:
- The notice period required for cancellations,
- Any non-refundable deposit portion, and
- How refunds are processed.
If something seems unclear, ask the Host to clarify before you pay.
7. Keep Communication Clear and Friendly
When booking direct, communication is key.
Most Hosts appreciate when Guests share their travel plans and expectations upfront - it helps them prepare your stay and ensure a great experience.
✅ Tip: Save the Host's phone number or email before travelling, in case you need to reach them quickly.
Booking Direct with Confidence
Booking direct doesn't just save you money - it helps you connect with real people who care about your experience.
At Stay Sava, we make it easy to find genuine Hosts, verified contact details, and clear booking links - so you can book smarter, safer, and with peace of mind.
In Summary
- Always verify the Host and property
- Never pay a large deposit unless it's through a secure channel
- Use traceable payment methods
- Get all booking details in writing
- Take advantage of direct-booking discounts and offers
💡 Start exploring verified BNBs and holiday stays on Stay Sava - where you can book direct, save more, and travel with confidence.