Being on a budget – affordable accommodation

After reading my previous posts you might have an idea of how to get to the destinations the cheapest way possible, but what about budget options for accommodation?

For a long time, hotels were my number one option when it comes to accommodation but these days there are a lot of good and cheaper alternatives, and I barely stay in hotels during my travels anymore.

Airbnb

The most known alternative for hotels is Airbnb. With Airbnb you will be staying at someone’s apartment, either alone or with other people, depending on which option you go for. Depending on destinations, Airbnbs are usually a much more affordable option to hotels and you can find nice places in good locations for half the price of the hotels. But this is largely dependent on the city. For example, when I was looking for an accommodation in Amsterdam, I found Airbnbs that were more expensive that hotels in the same region.

Airbnbs are a good option for both single travellers and groups. You can select if you want a whole apartment or just a single room in a shared apartment. I have usually travelled with a friend or a group of friends so I always booked the whole apartment but especially if you are travelling alone, getting a room in a shared apartment might be a good way of getting to know new people and maybe tour the city together. My experiences with Airbnb have always been very positive and it’s been my go-to option during my travels recently.

Hostels

Another budget alternative for hotels are of course hostels. Especially if you are travelling alone, hostels are usually a great way to make new acquaintances. Hostels usually have shared rooms, meaning there will be others staying in the same room with whom you will also share a bathroom. Some hostels also offer private rooms for some more privacy. In general, hostels are ideal for students because they usually provide very good insider tips when it comes to the city, you get to connect with like-minded travellers and young people, and if you are up for a party, it shouldn’t be hard to find company. Moreover, the prices for hostels are a fracture of that of the hotels’.

Couchsurfing

If you don’t want to spend a dime on your accommodation, then the best option for you is Couchsurfing. With Couchsurfing you stay with local hosts who have offered to house guests in their apartment for free. Keep in mind that you will be staying at someone’s place and it’s for free, so as the name states, you might actually be sleeping on the couch.
Couchsurfing is also a platform to socialize and connect with fellow travellers. Through the Couchsurfing platform you can also find people to show you around the city even if you wouldn’t be looking for a place to stay. I know people who made friends through Couchsurfing and are still in touch with after their trips. I have never done Couchsurfing myself but everyone I know who did, only have positive stories to tell.

All these options are very different but are all more affordable compared to staying at a hotel. So next time you travel with a low budget and are up to meeting new people, maybe check out Couchsurfing?

Image Sources
Header Photo by Konrad Hulak on Unsplash