Stretching Our Travel Budget: Finding Affordable Places To Stay

We’re not on a traditional retirement path – think of it more as an open-ended adventure of discovering what our American expat lifestyle looks like for us. Some might imagine we have a hidden fortune tucked away, but the truth is, we operate on a modest budget, aiming to spend less than our cost of living back home. So even though we are traveling the world full time, finding affordable places to stay is key to stretching our dollars. In this post, we’ll share some strategies we’ve picked up along the way. From clever booking tactics to exploring alternative options like house sitting and university dorm rentals, we’ll share the ways we find comfortable and budget-friendly places to stay.

👋 New Here? We’re Jeff and Sandra, American expats exploring affordable places to live around the world. We share our experiences visiting destinations across the globe and the real costs, honest reviews, and practical tips for living abroad on a budget, one country at a time.

What we mean by “Affordable Places To Stay”: Our Budget Travel Philosophy

Since affordability is subjective, let’s talk about what “affordable” means for us as a traveling couple. Here’s a peek into our budget travel philosophy:

Focus on Experiences, Not Luxury: We prioritize experiences and activities over luxurious accommodations. While comfort is important, we’re happy with clean and functional spaces that allow us to explore and connect with the local vibe. Some of our accommodations have been shall we say “rustic”…

Nightly Accommodation Budget: Our nightly accommodation budget goal is less then $50 a night. Though we don’t always hit this target, it is our goal. You can read about some of our accommodations here

Flexibility is Key: We embrace some flexibility with accommodation costs. We might splurge on a unique stay in a special location, balancing it out with super budget-friendly options in other areas. For example: We might need to spend more than our nightly budget at a local hotel for a couple of nights because we need to be near the airport or train station.

Balancing Costs Across Categories: Finding affordable accommodation allows us to allocate more of our travel budget to other travel essentials like food, public ground transportation, and local activities. We prioritize trying delicious street food and exploring local markets over expensive restaurant meals.

The Value Factor: Ultimately, affordability for us is about value. We seek accommodation that offers a clean and comfortable space in a good location, considering the overall cost relative to the local standard.

Now that we’ve been transparent about what “affordable” means for us, let’s talk about how you can find affordable place to stay!

Accommodation Options for Budget Travelers

Stay in a Hostels: A Budget-Friendly Option

Hostels typically have two main room options: dorm rooms and private rooms. Dorm rooms are shared spaces with bunk beds, usually accommodating anywhere from 4 to 12 people. This is a fantastic way to meet fellow travelers and share stories from the road.

If you prefer more privacy, some hostels also offer private rooms with a double bed or even a small en-suite bathroom. While they cost more than a bed in a dorm room, they can be cheaper than a standard hotel room.

A Note for Senior Travelers:

We understand that hostels might not be for everyone, especially for senior travelers like us. Noise levels can be higher, and shared bathrooms might not be ideal for everyone. However, there are ways to navigate these aspects:

• Private Rooms: Consider booking a private room within a hostel. This gives you the privacy you desire while still allowing you access to some of the hostel’s common areas and potentially social events.
• Adult-Oriented Hostels: Some hostels cater specifically to adult travelers. These hostels tend to have a calmer atmosphere and might offer amenities more suited to our age group, like comfortable common areas or on-site cafes.

Search for hostels👀

Co-Living Hotels: Affordable Places To Stay with a Twist

The coliving hotel concept merges the idea of a traditional hotel with the social aspects of hostel mixed in with a little hotel-like perks such as housekeeping and potentially even on-site dining. But, the focus is on shared living areas like kitchens, workspaces, and lounges, fostering a sense of community. Unlike traditional hotels with nightly rates, coliving hotels might offer more flexible stays, catering to both short-term visitors and those seeking a longer-term stay. We stayed at in co-living hotel in Panama and the rooms, with ensuite bathrooms, were private, just like a hotel room but the kitchen, laundry facilities and workspace were shared spaces.

ApartHotels & Short term Rentals: Cost-conscious lodging for longer stays

During our travels, we’ve come to appreciate the comfort and privacy that aparthotels & short term rentals offer. We’ve also found these can be particularly cost-effective especially when compared to hotels for longer stays. Unlike hotels, aparthotels & short term rentals provide a more residential feel, allowing us to settle in and feel more like temporary locals.

More Than Just a Room

ApartHotels & Short term Rentals come in various forms, from former hotels turned apartments, apartments and condos, to single rooms with shared common spaces. This variety allows you to find a place that perfectly suits your needs. An apartment might offer a full kitchen, living room, and separate sleeping areas, perfect for longer stays or group travel. Additionally, if you’re traveling with a group, splitting the cost of a short term rental can be significantly cheaper than booking multiple hotel rooms.

Finding the Right Fit: Cost-conscious lodging

With so many vacation rental platforms available, it’s important to choose a reputable one. We recommend researching platforms with good user reviews and clear booking policies. Here are some things to consider when booking a vacation rental:

• Read Carefully: Does the listing mention ‘shared bathroom’ or ‘communal kitchen,’ it means you’ll be using these facilities with other guests in the property.” Look for terms like ‘entire apartment’ or ‘private home’ to ensure you have exclusive use of the entire space. Analyze the pictures! If you’re unsure message the host to confirm.
• Amenities: Think about what amenities are important to you. Do you need a kitchen to prepare meals? Is laundry access essential? Most platforms allow you to filter rentals based on these features.
• Location: Consider your desired proximity to attractions, public transportation, and grocery stores.
• Reviews: Read reviews from previous guests to get a sense of the property’s condition, noise levels, and overall atmosphere.

In our experience, aparthotels and short term rentals have been a game-changer for finding affordable places to stay.

University Rooms: Affordable Places to Stay on Campus

We recently stumbled upon an interesting idea for budget-conscious travelers like ourselves – renting university rooms! Basic concept is that Universities often have single rooms or basic apartments within their student dormitories. During semester breaks and holidays, some institutions offer these rooms for rent to the general public. University room rentals have the potential to be significantly cheaper than hotels, especially in major cities with expensive hotel rates. Plus, universities are frequently situated in central areas or have excellent access to public transportation, making it easy to explore the sights and attractions.

Before You Book, Consider This

While the idea sounds intriguing, there are some things to keep in mind:

• University room rentals are typically only available during breaks and holidays like summer or winter vacations. Flexibility might be required when booking your trip around these periods.
• Also, these rooms are designed for students, so expect basic amenities compared to a hotel. Think comfortable bed, desk, and maybe a shared bathroom – not luxurious facilities or extensive room service. Additionally, university life can be social, and there might be some noise from other students, especially on weekends.

Finding Your Dorm Room Getaway

If you’re open to a more basic experience and prioritize affordability and location, then renting a university room could be worth considering. Many universities advertise room rentals for the public on their official websites or through their housing departments. Alternatively, some travel booking platforms or specialized student accommodation websites might list these options during holiday periods.

University rooms might be our next experiment! We’re always looking for ways to stretch our travel budget while exploring potential retirement locations. The idea of experiencing campus life for a short while, even if it’s just a glimpse, is quite appealing. We’ll definitely do our research to see if specific universities offer these rentals and if they would be a good fit for our travel style.

Guesthouses & Homestays: Live like a local on a budget

For a truly immersive travel experience, consider guesthouses. These smaller, family-run establishments offer a delightful alternative to large hotels. Unlike the generic hotel experience, guesthouses often ooze with local charm and character.

A Window into Local Culture

Staying in a guesthouse can feel like stepping into a local home. You might find yourself surrounded by traditional architecture, local artwork, and perhaps even the opportunity to chat with the owners and learn about their culture and way of life. This personal connection can be far more enriching than the impersonal service of a large hotel chain.

A Home Away From Home (with Breakfast)

Many guesthouses provide breakfast, which is a lovely way to start your day. The guesthouse we stay in Panama included breakfast and it was so yummy! We sat on the charming patio enjoying the birdsong and watch the little lizards darting amongst the plants. It’s just one of the benefits of staying in a guesthouse.

Intimate Atmosphere

Guesthouses typically have fewer rooms than hotels, creating a more intimate atmosphere. You might find yourself interacting with other guests from around the world, fostering a sense of community and shared travel experiences.

Smart Booking Strategies for Finding Affordable Places To Stay

Embrace Shoulder Seasons and Off-Season Travel

As full-time travelers, we’ve learned a valuable lesson in finding affordable places to stay: embrace shoulder and off-season travel! Here’s why:

• Accommodation on Sale: During peak tourist seasons, accommodation prices can skyrocket. Popular destinations become flooded with visitors, driving up the cost of everything. However, by traveling during the shoulder seasons or even the off-season (depending on the destination), you can find significant savings on affordable places to stay.
• Beyond the Crowds: Off-season travel often means fewer crowds at popular attractions. This translates to shorter lines, a more peaceful atmosphere, and the ability to truly appreciate historical sites and landmarks without feeling rushed.
• Unique Experiences: Sometimes, off-season travel can unlock special experiences not available during peak times. Local festivals, cultural events, or even special restaurant menus might only be offered outside the peak tourist season. Restaurants might even return to more affordable pricing options. These unique offerings can add a whole new dimension to your travels.
• Shoulder seasons can offer pleasant weather! You can visit this site to get Climate reports with the weather by month, day, even hour. Great for event and trip planning!

Of course, there can be trade-offs: Some tourist-oriented shops or restaurants might have reduced hours during the off-season, and certain outdoor activities might be weather-dependent. However, for us, the benefits of off-season travel far outweigh the occasional inconvenience.

If you’re open to a bit of flexibility with your travel plans, consider giving off-season travel a try.

Be Flexible with Your Location: Look at Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Neighborhoods Close to Your Destination

Finding affordable places to stay is a key part of budget-conscious travel. Here’s a strategy we’ve found helpful: think beyond the city center! While staying right in the heart of the action might seem convenient, it often comes with a hefty price tag on your accommodation.

Venturing Out, Saving Money

By considering neighborhoods outside the city center, you can unlock significant savings on your accommodation. Many charming areas just outside the main tourist hub offer comfortable apartments, guesthouses, or even vacation rentals at a fraction of the cost. This frees up more of your travel budget for exploring sights, enjoying local cuisine, or perhaps indulging in a longer stay than in that perfect location.

Exploring Like a Local

The beauty of staying outside the city center is finding affordable places to stay that only the locals know about. These neighborhoods often have a more authentic local vibe, with bustling markets, independent shops, and traditional restaurants frequented by residents. You might find yourself strolling through quiet streets lined with charming cafes or exploring lively squares where locals gather in the evenings.

Public Transportation is Your Friend

Most cities have efficient public transportation systems that connect central areas with outlying neighborhoods. Staying outside the center doesn’t have to mean sacrificing convenience. Many affordable places to stay are located near bus stops, metro stations, or tram lines, making it easy to get around and explore the main sights. Think of it as adding another layer of cultural immersion to your trip – navigating public transportation alongside locals.

Consider Safety and Accessibility First

Before booking any accommodation, it’s important to research the safety and accessibility of the neighborhood. Many online travel resources and review platforms allow you to filter neighborhoods based on safety ratings and proximity to public transportation. You can also search for local blogs or forums where expats or budget travelers might share their experiences in different areas.

Finding the Best Affordable Place to Stay

Here are some resources to help you explore neighborhoods outside the city center:

• Online travel booking platforms often have filters for neighborhoods and reviews from previous guests.
• Local city websites or tourism boards sometimes offer neighborhood guides with information on safety, accessibility, and things to do.
• Travel blogs and forums focused on budget travel can be a treasure trove of information on affordable neighborhoods in different cities.

By being flexible with your location and considering neighborhoods outside the city center, you can unlock significant savings on accommodation. This strategy can not only stretch your travel budget but also lead you to discover charming local areas and experience a more authentic side of your chosen destination.

Last-Minute Deals and Discounts

We all love a good deal, and when it comes to accommodation, there are ways to find last-minute savings. Here are a few tricks we’ve learned to stretch our travel dollars further:

Finding affordable places to stay: Last-Minute Bookings

Some hotels and vacation rentals offer discounted rates for bookings made close to the arrival date. This can be a great way to save money, especially during off-peak travel times or weekdays. Keep an eye on hotel websites and vacation rental platforms a few days before your desired travel dates. You might be surprised at the deals you can find!

Direct Booking Perks

Many accommodation providers offer discounts or special packages for booking directly through their website, bypassing online travel agencies (OTAs) and booking platforms. This can sometimes result in lower rates and potentially additional perks like free breakfast or room upgrades.

Join the List (But Be Cautious)

Subscribing to email lists of hotels, vacation rentals, or even hostels in areas you’d like to visit can be a smart strategy. These emails often announce special promotions, last-minute deals, or flash sales.

When Finding Affordable Places To Stay: Don’t Get Blinded by Bargains

While last-minute deals can be tempting, it’s important to be cautious of unrealistically low prices when researching affordable places to stay. These could be a sign of a few things:

• Less Than Ideal Property: A super-low price might indicate a property with outdated amenities, inconvenient location, or cleanliness issues. Before booking, take some time to read reviews from other travelers. What are reviewers saying about the property’s condition, noise levels, and overall atmosphere?
• Hidden Fees: Sometimes, those enticing rock-bottom prices don’t include all the costs. Be sure to factor in any additional mandatory fees, like resort charges, city taxes, or cleaning fees, before getting too excited about a low headline number. Many search engines might not include these hidden fees in the initial price displayed.
• Potential Scams: Unfortunately, there are scams out there targeting budget travelers. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always stick to reputable accommodation providers and be wary of deals that require upfront payments without secure booking platforms.

Do Your Research

Before jumping on a last-minute deal, take a few minutes to do your research. Read reviews from other travelers on reputable platforms. Compare prices across different booking websites and the property’s own website. This will give you a sense of what a reasonable rate is for that particular property and location.

Finding Affordable Places TO Stay & Search Engine Quirks

It’s also important to be aware that sometimes the prices displayed on search engine results pages might not accurately reflect the actual cost. These prices might not include the aforementioned hidden fees or might be based on limited availability or even the wrong dates. Always click through to the property’s website or the booking platform to see the final price breakdown before making a decision.

By keeping an eye out for last-minute deals and discounts, but also being cautious and doing your research, you can find comfortable and affordable accommodation without sacrificing quality or safety during your travels. Remember, a little extra time spent researching can save you a lot of trouble (and money) down the line.

Finding Affordable Places To Stay: The Power of Longer Stays

As we explore the globe, we’ve discovered a strategy that can significantly reduce accommodation costs: the power of long stays. Many vacation rentals and guesthouses offer attractive discounts for extended stays, think a month rather than a week.

Stretch Your Budget Further

The cost benefits of long stays can be substantial; we often book a month long stay for the same price as a week. Long stay rates can be significantly lower than nightly rates for the same property. This can free up a significant portion of your travel budget for other experiences, like trying local restaurants, exploring cultural attractions, or indulging in that perfect souvenir. Imagine the difference between paying for a hotel room by the night versus having a comfortable apartment for a month at a fraction of the total cost!

Beyond the Room: Reduced Transportation Costs

The advantages of long stays go beyond just the accommodation itself. When you stay in one place for a longer period, you’re less likely to be constantly packing and unpacking, moving from hotel to hotel. This translates to a potential reduction in transportation costs. Instead of paying for taxis or airport shuttles every few days, you can settle into a location and explore the surrounding area at your own pace.

Embrace Public Transportation or Walking

Many cities and towns offer excellent public transportation systems that are perfect for exploring different neighborhoods and sights. We have found that staying in one location for a longer period allows us a chance to get familiar with the bus routes, metro lines, or tram stops, making it easier to navigate like a local.

The Budget-Friendly Kitchen Advantage

Long term stays often have kitchens and can be a real game-changer for budget-conscious travelers. We have found that having access to a kitchen allows us to grocery shop at local markets and prepare our own meals. This gives us more control over our food budget, allowing us to enjoy fresh, local ingredients without breaking the bank compared to eating out every night.

Not Everyone Loves to Cook (But Everyone Loves to Eat!)

We understand that not everyone enjoys cooking, especially on vacation. Trust me when I say that most times I’d rather grab something ready to eat at a local store or go to a restaurant rather than cook while I’m traveling. The beauty of a longer stay is that it allows you more time to research and discover affordable local restaurants. You can venture beyond the tourist traps and find hidden gems frequented by residents, offering delicious and authentic cuisine at a fraction of the cost of restaurants catering primarily to tourists. With a longer stay, you have the flexibility to try different places and discover your new favorites.

Finding Affordable Places To Stay: Alternative Accommodation

Here are a few ideas that might be worth considering:

House Sitting and Pet Sitting

This unique option allows you to stay in someone’s home in exchange for caring for their pets and property. Websites connect homeowners going on vacation with individuals willing to provide pet care and house sitting in exchange for accommodation. We’ve found home & pet sitting to be a win-win situation – we get a place to stay, and the homeowner has peace of mind knowing their pets and home are in good hands. Keep in mind: This might not be ideal for everyone, as it often requires some responsibility and commitment to caring for pets. (Update: Be very careful when relying on pet sits or house sits to lower international travel expenses; some countries consider these “unauthorized work” and can either deport you or deny you entry – and this is not covered by travel insurance. See below)

Want to look into Pet Sitting? We recommend Trusted House Sitters

Explore Volunteer Programs with Free Accommodation

Several volunteer programs around the world offer accommodation in exchange for your volunteer work. This can be a fantastic way to combine travel with meaningful experiences. Opportunities range from helping with conservation efforts to assisting with community development projects. Accommodation might be basic, but the cultural immersion and sense of purpose can be incredibly rewarding.

Remember: Research reputable volunteer programs that align with your interests and ensure they are ethical and transparent in their practices.

Work Exchanges

Another alternative for budget-conscious travelers is work exchanges. These programs connect you with accommodation (and sometimes meals) in exchange for a set number of hours of work per week. Work can range from helping out on a farm or hostel to assisting with childcare or language exchange programs. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in a new culture, learn new skills, and potentially make new friends, all while saving on accommodation costs.

Important Considerations

Volunteering & Work Permit Considerations

While volunteer and work exchanges can be a great experience, it’s crucial to research visa and work permit requirements before participating. Some countries might require specific visas for volunteer work or work exchange programs. Failing to have the proper documentation can lead to legal trouble and could impact your future travel plans. Be sure to understand the visa and work permit regulations of the country you’re planning to visit and ensure the volunteer or work exchange program you choose operates legally.

Digital Nomad Considerations: Finding Your Wi-Fi Oasis

For digital nomads like us who rely on a strong and stable internet connection to get work done, finding affordable places to stay presents a unique challenge. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Prioritize Listings with Clear Wi-Fi Details: Look for listings on accommodation websites and platforms that explicitly mention internet speed and reliability. Filters for “high-speed Wi-Fi” or “suitable for remote work” can be helpful.
• Read Reviews with a Wi-Fi Focus: Pay close attention to guest reviews that mention internet quality.
• Contact the Property Directly: Don’t hesitate to contact the property owner or manager directly to inquire about internet speed and reliability. Explain that you’re a digital nomad and a strong internet connection is essential for your work.
• Be Prepared with a Backup Plan: While aiming for reliable Wi-Fi, it’s wise to have a backup plan in case of internet outages – if the power goes out in chances are the internet service providers will lose power too – discuss this possibility with your co-workers and boss before heading out on your trip.

This post has hopefully given you a few ideas to consider when you’re on your own budget-friendly adventures. Remember, a bit of research, flexibility with your travel plans, and an openness to different accommodation options can go a long way. Finding affordable places to stay doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or experience. In fact, it can sometimes lead to unexpected connections and a deeper appreciation for the places you visit.

So, the next time you’re planning a trip, think about venturing beyond traditional hotels. Embrace the chance to explore different neighborhoods, consider house sitting opportunities, or even check out university dorm rentals during vacation periods. You might be surprised by the comfortable and budget-friendly options waiting to be discovered!

Happy (and affordable) travels!