Booking directly with a Host can save money, avoid large online agency fees, and create a more personal travel experience. Stay Sava connects Guests with verified Hosts and direct booking links, but it is still important to book carefully and keep a clear record of the arrangement.
1. Check the Host and Property
Before paying a deposit, confirm that the Host, business name and property are genuine. Look for consistent contact details, an official website, recent reviews, an ABN, or tourism/council accommodation listings. These checks help confirm you are dealing with a real accommodation provider.
2. Be Careful with Deposits and Payments
A reasonable deposit for many smaller or independent Hosts is usually 20-40% of the total booking value. If full payment is requested well before your stay, ask for a written confirmation or tax invoice, plus clear cancellation and refund terms before you pay.
Use secure, traceable payment methods such as a 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 through payment apps with little or no buyer protection.
3. Get the Booking Details in Writing
Keep a written record of the booking dates, total cost, deposit amount, payment schedule, cancellation policy, check-in details and Host contact information. This protects both the Guest and the Host and helps avoid misunderstandings later.
4. Understand the Cancellation Policy
Before confirming, make sure you understand the notice period, any non-refundable deposit amount, and how refunds are processed. If anything is unclear, ask the Host to explain it in writing before paying.
5. Ask About Direct Booking Offers
Booking direct may give you access to better value, including longer-stay discounts, off-peak rates, last-minute offers, early check-in, or local recommendations. Stay Sava also allows Guests to “Make an Offer” for off-peak or extended stays.
Booking Direct with Confidence
Booking direct is a smart way to save and deal with real people who care about your stay. Stay Sava helps make this easier by listing genuine Hosts, verified contact details and clear booking links, so Guests can book direct with more confidence.
In Summary
- Verify the Host and property before paying.
- Avoid large upfront payments unless the booking channel is secure.
- Use traceable payment methods.
- Keep all booking details in writing.
- Ask about direct-booking discounts or offers.
