Hostels to us backpackers are almost godsent, with cheap rooms, free breakfast (sometimes), cheap alcohol and serving as a place to meet those traversing the world as we are.

It is however not your only accommodation option and there are more ways to score cheap (at times even free!) accommodation provided you are flexible with factors such as money, location, some labor and taking on some responsibility.

Check out the below 8. Have you tried these? Did we miss anything?

1. Couchsurfing

Another backpacking favorite is Couchsurfing, where locals offer to host travelers free of charge. Although this arrangement requires no payment it is always polite to bring the host a gift or offer to cook some local cuisine in order to show gratitude.

This we’ve found is a great way to discover a location with a local’s eye.

Do however remember to take a look at our tips on how to couch surf, its safety, and even etiquette.

Fancy being a host? Take a look at our guide to being a great Couchsurfing host.

2. Camping

Loved by many, camping is a great way to connect with the great outdoors and unplug.

You should, however, be careful as some countries do not allow wild camping and require campers to stay on camping sites. These camping sites, however, might become as pricey as a hostel or even a small hotel room, so pick wisely!

Do not however make these first-time camping mistakes.

3. Private rooms

If seeking some privacy and quiet, booking a private room is the way to go.

Don’t despair just yet, most hostels offer private rooms and they will not have you selling a kidney to rent one.

4. Airbnb

Airbnb simply out functions as a paid version of Couchsurfing, as locals rent out an extra room for travelers in exchange for money.

This too is a great way to meet locals and see the city in the eyes of a local.

5. Campervans

Campervans might sound expensive, but it is an excellent tool for traversing across vast swathes of land such as the USA or Europe.

Accommodation is taken care of, and you can pick up travel partners to help with the fuel costs.

6. WWOOFing

WWOOFING also is known as World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms is a form of homestay where travelers can volunteer to work in exchange for accommodation and food.

This allows for a deeper understanding of the locals and an innate sense of the culture inherent to it.

7. House Sitting

House sitting akin to babysitting is when you stay at a house whilst the owners are absent to care for it and any pets that occupy it.

Pets and free accommodation? It doesn’t get any better than that!

8. Guesthouses

Although slightly more expensive when compared against hostels, guest houses serve as a great accommodation choice when they are absent.

Such guest houses are run by locals who will be able to give you information on seeing your destination from a local’s eye.