Whether you’re a digitally nomadic professional, a budget backpacker, or just a savvy traveler keen to get the most out of your money, you’ll appreciate that accommodation costs can eat significantly into your budget when you’re on the road.
Indeed, accommodation is usually one of the most expensive components of any trip, second only, perhaps, to the cost of the flights. The good news is that finding good accommodation options shouldn’t force you to break the bank. In this article, we have listed various budget-friendly options you can consider to create memorable and enjoyable experiences.
Opt for Hostels
Hostels are the go-to budget accommodation option for many budget-conscious travelers. They provide a basic but decent place to sleep in and useful amenities like Wi-Fi, kitchen facilities, and laundry service. The affordability of the hostels is usually facilitated by the shared sleeping arrangements involving bunk beds in a mixed or single-sex dormitory. However, many hostels also offer private rooms for one or two people at a higher price but still cheaper than a hotel room.
Consider Guesthouses or Bed and Breakfasts
If you’re not overly keen on sharing your sleeping quarters with others, then consider staying in a guesthouse or Bed & Breakfast accommodation. These types of accommodations usually offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms at a fraction of the cost of a hotel. Furthermore, the rooms often include breakfast, see if you can use this as an opportunity to save on morning meals.
Stay with Locals
Opting for platforms like Airbnb or Couchsurfing can save you a bunch. Airbnb is essentially a platform where locals rent out their apartments or houses (or sometimes just a room) to visitors. Couchsurfing, on the other hand, is a platform where hosts offer their couch or perhaps a spare bed to a traveler at no cost. Both platforms offer excellent opportunities for interacting with the locals and learning about local life.
Try Camping
If you’re more of an outdoor enthusiast, camping is another excellent way to save money on accommodation. Camping in a tent can be free or cost you very little, especially in public camping grounds or national parks. Plus, it provides an opportunity to connect with nature.
Go for Vacation Rentals
Renting an apartment or a house through platforms like VRBO (Vacation Rental by Owner) can be a very smart choice, especially if you’re traveling as a family or a group. You get to have your own space, kitchen, and sometimes even washing facilities, giving you the chance to save money on meals and laundry, apart from accommodation.
Conclusion
Being a budget-savvy traveler doesn’t mean you have to skimp on comfort during your adventures. The cost of travel is a common concern for many people, but with a bit of research and pre-planning, you can make your money go further and still have an incredible trip. From hostels, guesthouses, local stays, camping and vacation rentals, there are plenty of budget accommodation options out there – you just need to find the one that suits your style and needs best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best site to book budget accommodation?
There are plenty of online platforms where you can book affordable accommodations. Some of the popular ones include Booking.com, Airbnb, Hostelworld, and Couchsurfing.
Is it cheaper to book accommodation in advance or on arrival?
This is dependent on the destination and season. It’s often cheaper to book in advance especially for popular destinations during peak season. However, for less visited places or during the low season, you might get better deals on arrival.
What are some ways to get discounts on accommodation?
Some ways to get discounts include booking during off-peak seasons, using discount codes, booking for longer stays, or signing up for loyalty programs.
Is it safe to stay with locals or in hostels?
Most of the time, it is safe to stay with locals or in hostels. However, it’s important to read reviews, consider the location, and use your intuition when choosing your accommodation.
