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When it comes to traveling, accommodation is often the most expensive part of the journey. However, with the right knowledge and planning, you can find cheap places to stay without breaking the bank. In this ultimate guide, we will explore various money-saving tips for accommodation, including hostels, cheap hotels, work exchanges, and more. By following these tips, you can travel on a budget and make the most of your trip.
How to Find Cheap Accommodation
Finding cheap accommodation has become easier thanks to online booking platforms. There are several websites where you can browse and book affordable places to stay. Here are some of the best methods for finding cheap accommodation:
1. Do a Work Exchange
A work exchange is a great way to travel on a budget while also gaining unique experiences. With a work exchange, you work a certain number of hours per week in exchange for free accommodation. Some hosts may even offer additional perks such as free meals or tours. Work exchanges can take various forms, including:
- Reception, housekeeping, or bartending in a hostel
- Childcare and language practice for a local family
- Gardening, carpentry, or animal care on a farm or eco-village
- Photography, digital marketing, or social media for a local business
We recommend using Worldpackers, a platform that connects travelers with hosts offering work exchange opportunities worldwide. Here are a few examples of top-rated work exchanges:
- San Diego, USA: Work as a receptionist and housekeeper in a fun hostel
- Ban Na San District, Thailand: Help build a jungle homestay in the south of Thailand
- Cancun, Mexico: Teach yoga and fitness classes at a beachfront hostel
- Hawaii, USA: Work on an off-grid glamping campground on the Big Island of Hawaii
- Barcelona, Spain: Work the night shift in a fun party hostel in Barcelona
- Ubatuba, Brazil: Work at the “best hostel in Latin America” with over 300 positive reviews from past volunteers
- Geres, Portugal: Help with cooking, cleaning, and reception at a bed and breakfast in a national park
- Drake Bay, Costa Rica: Assist with gardening and food production on a farm and eco-village
- Hanoi, Vietnam: Teach English to locals of all ages
Browse through the hosts on Worldpackers to find the perfect work exchange opportunity for you.
2. Stay in Hostels
Hostels are ideal for young travelers who want to meet new people and stay in a social environment. Nowadays, hostels offer more than just a place to sleep. Many have amenities such as free Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, clean bathrooms, laundry services, on-site bars or restaurants, and fun common areas. They are usually centrally located, making it convenient for exploring the area. Renting a bed in a shared dorm room is usually much cheaper than staying in a hotel, with prices ranging from $3-10 USD in cheap countries and $10-30 USD in expensive countries. Some hostels even offer private rooms at a lower cost than hotels.
3. Do CouchSurfing
CouchSurfing is another excellent option for budget accommodation. This involves staying with a local host who offers their couch or spare room free of charge. CouchSurfing is a community-driven platform where travelers and hosts connect from all around the world. By joining the CouchSurfing community, you can find free places to stay in various countries.
4. Do a Home Exchange
A home exchange is a unique way to experience local life while traveling. With a home exchange, two parties agree to stay in each other’s homes for a set period of time. This arrangement is usually a mutual agreement without any monetary exchange. Home exchanges provide a cozy and authentic experience compared to staying in a hotel. However, home exchanges are more suitable for older travelers who have their own homes to offer in return.
5. Go Camping
Camping is an affordable option for accommodation, especially for travelers who enjoy nature. You can stay in a tent surrounded by trees and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Camping options vary depending on the location. Some campgrounds are free, while others require a fee. Certain campgrounds provide facilities such as showers, toilets, and kitchens, while others have limited amenities. If camping is permitted on free public land, you can set up your tent anywhere. However, it’s essential to research and ensure that camping is allowed and regulated in the area you choose. Camping is particularly suitable for road trips, as you can store your camping gear in your vehicle. Many national parks offer affordable campgrounds where you can book a cabin for the night.
Finding Cheap Hotels
Although hotels are generally more expensive than other forms of accommodation, it’s still possible to find affordable options. Here are some tips for getting cheap hotels:
1. Travel Off-Season
Traveling during the off-season can significantly reduce accommodation costs. Flights, hotels, and tours are often cheaper during periods of lower tourist activity. While peak tourist season aligns with holidays and favorable weather, the off-season can offer equally amazing experiences. If you have the flexibility to travel during less popular times and don’t mind some unfavorable weather, you can save a significant amount on hotels. For example, traveling in Europe during the winter or shoulder seasons can be much more affordable compared to the summer high season.
2. Book Ahead with Free Cancellation
Booking your accommodations well in advance can help you secure better deals and avoid last-minute price increases. Hotels often charge higher rates for last-minute bookings. By planning ahead and reserving your hotel a few months in advance, you can not only save money but also enjoy the flexibility of free cancellation in case your plans change.
3. Check Multiple Websites
When searching for hotels, compare prices across different platforms. Booking agents like Kayak, Booking.com, or Agoda may offer different rates. Shopping around can help you find the best deals, as some websites may have special promotions. Additionally, consider checking the hotel’s own website to see if they offer a cheaper price than the booking agents.
https://travelhourly.com is a reliable platform for booking accommodations. By signing up for a free profile, you can access exclusive discounts and benefits. For members of Pack Plan, https://travelhourly.com offers a 4% cashback at Booking.com, in addition to other advantages.
Conclusion
Traveling on a budget is possible when you know how to find cheap accommodation. Whether through work exchanges, hostels, CouchSurfing, home exchanges, or camping, there are various money-saving options available. By following the money-saving tips provided in this guide, you can enjoy affordable accommodation while exploring the world. Remember to plan ahead, compare prices, and consider off-season travel to maximize your savings. With the right mindset and knowledge, you can have a memorable and budget-friendly travel experience.