Travelling on a budget doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or safety when choosing accommodation. Whether you’re a hostel lover or prefer budget-friendly hotels, picking the right place can make all the difference in your trip.
Here’s how to find affordable accommodation that still meets your needs.
1. Prioritise Location Over Price
📍 Why it matters: A super cheap hotel or hostel isn’t a bargain if it’s far from everything and you end up spending heaps on transport. Staying central saves time and money.
✔️ Look for:
- Walking distance to major attractions or public transport.
- Supermarkets or cheap eateries nearby.
- A safe neighbourhood, especially if arriving late at night.
2. Use the Right Booking Sites
💻 Why it helps: Different platforms offer different deals, so comparing prices can save you cash.
✔️ Best websites for budget stays:
- Hostelworld – Best for hostels with real backpacker reviews.
- Booking.com – Often has free cancellation and discounts for frequent users.
- Agoda – Great for Asia and often has lower prices than competitors.
- Airbnb – Good for private rooms or long stays.
✔️ Tip: Check direct hotel/hostel websites for special deals or promo codes.
3. Read Reviews (But Be Smart About It)
⭐ Why it’s important: The cheapest place isn’t worth it if past guests complain about bedbugs, rude staff, or dodgy areas.
✔️ What to look for in reviews:
- Cleanliness – If multiple people mention dirty bathrooms, move on!
- Safety – Important for solo travellers, especially women.
- Atmosphere – Want a social hostel? Or a quiet place to sleep? Reviews will tell you!
✔️ Tip: Use a filter on the site to not see the ones too low.
4. Consider Room Types & Extras
🏠 Why it matters: Not all budget stays are created equal! Some “cheap” options end up being uncomfortable or unsafe.
✔️ Think about:
- Hostels: Choose between dorms (cheaper) or private rooms (better for light sleepers).
- Hotels: See if they offer perks like free breakfast or airport transfers.
- Airbnbs: Ensure there are solid reviews and clear cancellation policies.
✔️ Tip: If booking a dorm, smaller dorms (4-6 beds) tend to be quieter and cleaner than larger ones.
5. Check What’s Included (And What’s Not)
💰 Why it can save you money: Some budget stays seem cheap until you realise you have to pay for Wi-Fi, towels, or luggage storage.
✔️ Look for:
- Free Wi-Fi (not just in the lobby!)
- Free breakfast (saves $$ on food)
- Lockers (important for hostels)
- Laundry facilities (especially for long trips)
✔️ Tip: It is all a balancing act and finding what works best for you.
6. Stay Flexible with Your Dates
📆 Why it works: Even a one-day difference can make a huge impact on accommodation prices.
✔️ Ways to save:
- Travel mid-week instead of weekends.
- Look at off-peak seasons for the destination.
- Stay longer – Some places offer discounts for extended stays.
✔️ Tip: Booking a hotel last-minute can sometimes save money, but for hostels, book at least a few days ahead to get the best options.
7. Consider Alternative Accommodation
🛖 Why it’s worth it: Sometimes the best budget stays aren’t traditional hotels or hostels.
✔️ Try:
- House sitting – Stay in someone’s home for free in exchange for pet sitting.
- Work exchanges – Some hostels offer free stays in exchange for a few hours of work.
- Capsule hotels or pod hostels – Common in Asia, great for solo travellers.
✔️ Tip: Websites like TrustedHousesitters or Workaway are great for finding alternative stays.
8. Find Accommodation with a Kitchen
🍽️ Why it’s a money-saver: Eating out every day adds up fast. A hostel with a kitchen, or a hotel/Airbnb with cooking facilities, lets you prepare your own meals and save money.
✔️ Look for:
- Hostels with communal kitchens
- Hotels with kitchenettes
- Airbnbs with full kitchens
✔️ Tip: Even if you don’t cook full meals, having a fridge and microwave helps with storing snacks and leftovers.
Final Thoughts
Finding budget accommodation doesn’t mean settling for a bad experience. With a little research and smart booking, you can find affordable places to stay that are clean, comfortable, and in great locations.
Happy travels! ✈️🏠
