Accommodation is one of the biggest fixed costs travelers have and reducing that cost can lead to big savings! I’m sure many backpackers would sleep in a barn if it was the cheapest accommodation they could find!
No matter what your accommodation tastes may be, one thing everyone has in common is that no one wants to pay a fortune for it. In fact, one of the best ways to take a cheap holiday is to cut down on accommodation costs. Since you have to stay somewhere every night, reducing this expense can save you a lot of money off the total cost of your trip. Next to finding a cheap flight, finding free or inexpensive lodging will have the biggest impact on your budget.
The articles below will help you find cheap accommodation.
Articles on Finding Cheap Accommodation
Ready to book? Here are my favorite booking companies:
Airbnb – This site connects you with people who rent out their homes or apartments. You’ll get the comforts of home, maybe stay in a local, non-touristy location, and pay a fraction of the cost of a hotel room.
Hostelworld – The best hostel site out there, with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability. You can also search for dorm beds or private rooms. I use it for my bookings (and it is an official sponsor of this website).
Couchsurfing – This site allows you to stay on people’s couches or in their spare rooms for free. It’s a great way to save money — while meeting locals who can tell you much more about a city than you will find out through a hostel or hotel. The site also has groups where you can arrange to meet up for events in your destination.
Booking.com – Booking.com provides is a great resource for cheap hotels and other accommodation. I like its easy-to-use interface.
Trusted Housesitters – For a unique (and free) way to travel, try house- or pet-sitting. In exchange for free accommodation, you simply look after someone’s house and/or pet while they’re away. It’s a great option for long-term travelers and anyone on a budget.
