The price of cheap accommodation is skyrocketing everywhere! It’s actually quite shocking how expensive even cheap countries have become now. When I first backpacked around Southeast Asia 20 years ago hostels with shared cheap accommodation were actually quite rare. We could always find a cheap private room, usually with a bathroom too!
Cheap Accommodation Guide
What’s happened since is that young budget travelers can generally only afford shared accommodation, particularly solo travelers who won’t be able to share the cost of a room. The situation in Europe, the USA, Australia etc is even worse for solo travelers on a budget. Hostel dorm beds in cities like Sydney, London and New York can cost well over USD 50. The prices can be even higher at busy times of the year!
With this in mind, we are going to suggest a few ways of find cheaper accommodation.
Stay in Hostels
Hostel dormitories represent an excellent value for those traveling on a budget. While it is true that sharing a room with multiple individuals may be a consideration, for budget-conscious travelers, this option provides the most effective means of conserving funds.
Although many hostels cater primarily to younger individuals and impose age restrictions, larger international chains like YHA and Hostelling International are more inclusive, welcoming older travelers and groups. Throughout my travels, I have encountered families, tour groups, and older individuals in hostels across the globe. Hostels truly offer a communal experience for anyone interested in connecting with fellow travelers, irrespective of age.
Moreover, hostels are characterized by their safety, security, and affordability. They should not be dismissed, even by those who do not identify as part of the youthful backpacking community.
My preferred platform for booking hostels is Hostelworld, which boasts an extensive inventory, competitive deals, and a user-friendly interface. I highly recommend utilizing their services for your reservations.
Look into Housesitting
Each year, numerous pet owners travel abroad for their vacations, often leaving their pets behind. This situation typically necessitates either costly animal boarding services or enlisting the help of friends or family to care for their pets. However, an alternative exists: Trusted Housesitters.
This platform facilitates connections between travelers seeking accommodation and local residents in need of pet care while they are away. It presents a wonderful opportunity for those who prefer to immerse themselves in a location for an extended period, whether it be weeks or months. While you will be responsible for caring for someone else’s pets, you will also gain access to a home equipped with a kitchen, laundry facilities, and potentially additional amenities such as a vehicle or swimming pool. This arrangement can significantly reduce expenses for long-term travelers.
Although house sitting is becoming increasingly popular, it remains relatively unfamiliar to many travelers. A membership fee of $129 USD per year is required to join Trusted Housesitters, but this investment can unlock opportunities worldwide. I am aware of several individuals who engage in pet sitting full-time, moving from one destination to another while enjoying complimentary accommodation.
Establishing oneself in this field may take some time, as building a reputation through reviews is essential. However, once you achieve this, you will be well-positioned to secure house sitting opportunities in remarkable locations.
Volunteering at a Hostel or a Farm
Hostel workers rarely stick around for long, which means there is always a demand for new help. It’s a great way to meet other travelers while exploring a new destination. In exchange for a few hours of work each day, you’ll get a free place to stay or cheap accommodation, allowing you to save money and extend your travels
Many hostels will have job boards up if they are looking for help. But it never hurts to just ask either!
If you want to find opportunities before you head abroad, check out Worldpackers. They offer travelers a chance to find volunteer experiences overseas. In addition to hostels, it can help you find experiences with NGOs, home stays, and eco-projects all over the world.
WWOOF, which stands for “Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms,” offers a highly regarded method for budget-conscious travelers to explore the world over an extended period. By engaging in work on organic farms, participants receive complimentary accommodation and meals, enabling them to prolong their journeys without incurring significant expenses. Although the work can be demanding, it provides a unique and enriching cultural experience that not only enhances travel but also results in substantial savings.
There are numerous farms available across more than 100 countries. Stays can vary from a few weeks to several months. To begin, one simply needs to register, pay a nominal fee, and start exploring available opportunities.
For further details, please refer to this post, which outlines all the essential information needed to embark on a WWOOFing adventure and maybe find cheap accommodation this way.
Using AirBnB for Cheap Accommodation
Just a quick word on Airbnbs, you are better off booking for just a few days and then negotiating direct with the landlord. Also ensure you have decent travel insurance too.
These apartments offer a more cheap accommodation alternative to hotels while providing a wider range of amenities. They are particularly advantageous for those intending to stay in one location for a week or longer, as they afford the comforts of home without incurring excessive expenses. These accommodations serve as a favorable compromise between hostels and hotels, although they may become somewhat costly for solo travelers, often costing approximately twice as much, if not more, than a hostel dormitory.
However, for groups or couples seeking a break from the bustling atmosphere of dorms without opting for a hotel room, these apartments represent an ideal choice. Additionally, the inclusion of a kitchen allows guests to prepare their own meals, thereby helping to lower food expenses. In today’s travel landscape, it is undeniable that online platforms have become ubiquitous. Airbnb stands out as a significant resource and one of the foremost methods for contemporary travel. For those who prefer to avoid both hotels and hostel dormitories, this option provides an excellent compromise.