You’re planning your next summer trip, but you’re on a tight budget. Good thing you have plenty of options when it comes to affordable accommodations. If hotels and apartment rentals are out of your reach, you still have plenty of other choices. Check out this list of alternative accommodations that’ll help you make the most of your budget.
1. Hostels
Image by www.fullmoonhostel.com
If you like meeting interesting people who are also travellers, book a dorm-type accommodation at a hostel. Many hostels offer rooms at less than $50 per night per person, so it’s definitely cheaper than a hotel. If you do want your privacy, you can always choose a single room. These budget-friendly accommodations come with fully equipped kitchens, so you also get to cook your own food and save a lot of money. Hang out at the game room, outdoor patio, and rooftop garden to mingle with the other guests. You’ll definitely hear plenty of quirky travel stories and tips you won’t get anywhere else.
2. Couchsurfing
Image by www.sfgate.com
If you’ve never tried couchsurfing, now’s the perfect time do so. It’s a cheaper alternative to hotels, apartments, and bed & breakfasts because it’s free. Find a host that’s willing to share his or her space by checking out online sites such as Couch Surfing and Stay 4 Free. These sites provide a database of hosts from around the world. Once you’ve found a host, you get to stay in an extra room or couch in exchange for a few household chores. You have full access to the host’s kitchen, living room, and other common areas, and you get to have a host who has an in-depth knowledge of your travel destination.
3. Home exchange
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Another budget-friendly idea is to swap homes with a fellow traveller. Sign up for a home exchange, and get to enjoy living in a house without paying a lot. Because the house is already fully equipped with everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay, you won’t have to bring towels, extra blankets, or even cooking equipment. You also get to enjoy access to hot water showers, laundry facilities, and a kitchen without paying extra. In terms of security, you’re in good hands; legit house swapping sites offer several levels of verification.
4. House sitting
Image by www.zerototravel.com
Check out house sitting if you don’t mind watching someone else’s house while keeping the place clean. You’re lucky if you find a house sitting spot for a luxury home. You get to enjoy the lush amenities without the hefty price tag. Some house sitting sites charge a minimum fee (ie: $20 annual fee), but it’s definitely cheaper than a hotel room that can cost you hundreds to thousands of dollars per night.
5. AirBnB
Image by Tiny Homes LTD
AirBnB is similar to CouchSurfing, but you get to pay a fee every night. Don’t worry though. It’s still more affordable than a hotel. In couchsurfing, the host is more involved in your travel plans. In AirBnB, however, you’re pretty much on your own once the host hands over the keys to the place. The key to couchsurfing, AirBnB, and other similar alternative options is to know your host well before arriving at the doorstep. Check out host profiles and see which one fits your preferences. You’ll want a host you’ll feel safe with and is easy to talk to.
Just because you have a limited budget, it doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a cramped room and messy bathroom. Check out the options above, and take the time to do a bit of research. Many of these alternative accommodations provide easy-to-use booking sites, so it’s easy to find a room, check out host profiles, and settle the payments.
Alternatively, if you are heading to Brisbane for a short stay check out Scobies BnB. We highly recommend the lovely team that run this – with airport pick ups and car hire assistance, this is a boutique BnB that you will just LOVE!
Once you’ve chosen an accommodation that’s within your budget, don’t forget to book your cheap airport parking in Brisbane with Alpha. This way, you get more bang for your buck on your next trip.
