Next to flight tickets, the costs for accommodation is the highest cost borne by backpackers. This cost however can be vastly reduced provided one is smart and conducts due research prior to traveling. The important variables to take into account when budgeting for accommodation is the location, a number of travelers, level of comfort sought and the duration of stay. Provided a traveler is flexible with the above there are many accommodation options and means to lower your cost of accommodation.

1. Hostels, hostels, hostels

Offering a range of accommodation options such as dorms and single rooms, hostels are a godsend for the budget-conscious traveler. The amenities, however, are no less than the ones you would find in any hotel, with essentials such as free WIFI and meals being provided.

Travset Tip- ensure you read the reviews of the dorms on booking websites prior to visiting. Pictures can be deceiving but reviews are not!

2. Use Hospitality exchanges

With many websites such as Couchsurfing seeing increasing growth, hospitality exchanges are becoming the norm for those who seek a more local aspect in their travels. These exchanges allow one to mingle with the locals and experience the destination at a grass-root level.

Travset Tip- this could be daunting at first but read the reviews of the host prior to reaching out. Higher reviews – great host!

3. Rent private accommodation

For those who seek secluded comfort, renting private accommodation is a good option. These allow provide you with privacy, your own bathroom, and even a kitchen to prepare meals in.

Travset Tip- rent private accommodation a little further from the center of the city. Cost tends to get cheaper with distance.

4. Stay at a farm

If asked with enough tact, most farms would provide you with accommodation. Free accommodation, however, means that you will be lending a hand on the farm.

Travset tip- there are some farms where you could pay for accommodation and do not work. We, however, recommend getting your hands a little dirty as farm work is fun!

5. Stay for longer

The long you book accommodation for, the cheaper it will be.

Travset Tip- accommodation is usually cheaper during the weekdays.

6. Travel offseason

Although this might seem like a no brainer, most travelers are not aware of how much more they are shelling out during the peak season when compared against the low season. Some places of accommodation hike prices by up as much as 100% during periods of high demand!

7. Redeem credit/loyalty card points

Some credit cards and loyalty cards from hotels and airlines provide you with points that are redeemable. We suggest you check with your bank and take advantage of such great deals!

Travset tip- you might find our article on how to pick the best travel credit cards useful.

8. Overnight transportation

Getting a few winks of sleep during travel to a new destination is a good way of saving on transport. What’s better than arriving at a new destination after a good night’s sleep?

Travset Tip- keep your belongings safe tucked close to you during your slumber. You don’t want to wake up a victim of theft!

9. Camping

There is no better accommodation than mother nature and camping truly is an amazing experience.

For those who don’t fancy camping under tents, there is the option of renting camper vans. These mobile homes allow you to enjoy nature at your leisure with home comforts.

Travset Tip- remember camping is illegal in certain countries. Make sure you pick a location close to running water and store foot at an elevated location such as a tree. And lastly, respect nature and leave it as clean as you found it.

10. Work exchange

Work exchange is where you contribute your man-hours in exchange for accommodation and meals. Such exchanges we’ve found are very rewarding as it offers travelers a chance to mingle and contribute to the local society at a grassroots level.