Cheap accommodation is one of the things that drives me crazy. When we travel, we spend hours, days, and nights researching the best accommodation at the best price. To be honest, it’s one of the things we love the most. Even if it’s just for a good night’s sleep, finding the right place where we feel comfortable at the end of a long day, after hiking or exploring, is really important to us. A comfy bed makes all the difference.
We don’t have high expectations or look for luxury stays; that’s not what we like. We simply search for a good place where the locals make us feel at home.
Of course, sometimes our choice depends on the place we’re visiting and the type of trip we’re on. For example, if we’re doing a day hike, we prefer cabins or camping. Conversely, if we’re backpacking in Southeast Asia, our all-time favorites are homestays. During safaris, a tent is our go-to option, and on islands, bungalows with hammocks are my favorite.
Accommodation, in general will be one of the main expenses of the trips, but with the right strategies, you can secure affordable and comfortable places to stay without breaking the bank. Here’s your ultimate guide to finding the best and cheapest accommodation during your backpacking adventures.
1. Leverage Cheap Accommodation Platforms
The internet is your best friend when it comes to finding cheap accommodation. Some popular platforms to consider include:
- Hostels: Websites like Hostelworld and Booking.com allow you to compare options, read reviews, and find affordable dorm beds or private rooms.
- Vacation Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb and Agoda often have budget-friendly rooms or shared spaces, especially if you book in advance.
- Couchsurfing: This platform connects you with locals who are willing to offer a free place to stay, giving you a cultural exchange along the way.
Pro Tip: Always read reviews to ensure the place meets your standards for cleanliness, safety, and comfort.
2. Consider Alternative Cheap Accommodation
If traditional hostels don’t fit your budget or style, explore these alternative options:
- Camping: If you love nature, camping is an affordable and adventurous option. Websites like Hipcamp or Campspace can help you find unique camping spots.
- Work Exchanges: Platforms like Workaway, WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), and HelpX allow you to trade a few hours of work per day for free accommodation.
- Housesitting: Websites like TrustedHousesitters or Nomador connect you with homeowners who need someone to care for their property (and sometimes pets) while they’re away.
3. Avoid City centre and touristic spots for cheap accommodation
I cannot stress this enough: Do not book accommodation in city centers or tourist hotspots. The simple reason is that, unfortunately, these areas are part of a pricing chain. The closer you are to the centre, the higher the prices for everything. Keep in mind that many people rent out accommodations as their primary job, so they need to make a profit. Sometimes, it’s not their fault; the costs of their investment in city areas are significantly higher compared to villages or the countryside. However, in my experience, many of them charge exorbitantly, far beyond reasonable rates.
You can always find budget-friendly options on the platforms I mentioned earlier. My advice? Rent a car or scooter for the flexibility to explore at your own pace, and choose accommodations in villages or rural areas. You’ll not only save money but also enjoy a more authentic and peaceful experience.
4. Join Backpacking Communities
Online backpacking communities are goldmines for travel tips and recommendations. Join groups on Facebook, Reddit, Instagram(like r/Shoestring and r/Backpacking), or travel forums. Fellow travelers often share hidden gems, including cheap accommodations they’ve discovered on their journeys.
Pro Tip: Some communities organize meetups or group bookings, which can reduce costs significantly.
5. Stay with Locals
Staying with locals is an excellent way to save money and immerse yourself in the local culture. Platforms like Couchsurfing or BeWelcome are ideal for connecting with hosts who offer free accommodation.
You can also talk to locals when you’re there and ask if they know someone renting out rooms. During my trip to North Vietnam, a family generously offered us a place to sleep and food as a warm welcome, completely free of charge. There are so many kind-hearted people in the world who love connecting with different cultures. Let’s connect with each other more.
Pro Tip: Always communicate clearly with your host before arrival and be respectful of their house rules.
7. Embrace Overnight Travel
If your backpacking itinerary involves long-distance journeys, consider overnight buses, trains, or ferries. While they’re not the epitome of luxury, they serve the dual purpose of getting you to your next destination while saving on a night’s accommodation.
8. Rent Camper or Van
In recent years, traveling by camper or van has become one of the most iconic and popular travel styles. More and more people are leaving their daily routines behind to explore the world with a newfound sense of freedom. Imagine falling asleep by the ocean, waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, or enjoying a cup of tea under a sky full of stars, this is the magic of van life.
The good news is, you don’t need to own a van to experience this. Renting one is a great option and can help you save money as you won’t need hotel. However, be cautious, camper rentals can be quite expensive in some places. To avoid overpaying, do some research on social media or other platforms to find out the current fair market price. Van life has become a trendy lifestyle, and as with any trend, businesses often capitalize on its popularity.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best and most affordable accommodation while backpacking is an art that combines careful planning, creativity, and a willingness to adapt to the unexpected. It’s about striking the perfect balance between cost, comfort, and the joy of immersing yourself in unique experiences. Whether you’re sharing stories with fellow travelers in a lively hostel dorm, falling asleep under a canopy of stars at a secluded campsite, or enjoying the warmth of a local family’s hospitality through couchsurfing, the journey is enriched by these moments of connection and discovery.
Staying open-minded and embracing the adventure that comes with stepping outside your comfort zone is key. Each type of accommodation, whether humble or unique, contributes to the stories you’ll carry with you for a lifetime. With these tips and a spirit of exploration, you can navigate the world on a budget, experiencing all its beauty and diversity without worrying about overspending.
So, pack your bags, take a leap of faith, and embark on your journey to explore new horizons. The world is waiting for you!
Check it out also: How to Save Money for a Trip: A Step-by-Step Guide
