Accommodation is perhaps the biggest budget killer during your travels. Fortunately there are a couple of different options and techniques you can implement to help reduce this cost. For example, if you are on an extremely tight budget and don’t mind getting a bit dirty, you can always hit the streets. Another and more mainstream option for budget backpackers is the youth hostel. Finally, you can always go for the comfort of a hotel. In the following article you will learn the best ways to reduce accommodation costs while on the road.
Sleep the Streets
Sleeping on the street definitely isn’t for everyone. Nights outdoors can be cold, even in summer, so unless you have the proper clothing and gear it is not the ideal option. However, at times you may find yourself with no other option but to sleep on the street. This generally occurs when your train, plane or bus arrives either too late or too early. In these cases, traditional accommodation just isn’t worthwhile. Fortunately, at most buss stops, train stations, and airports, you can generally find a quiet and safe nook to curl up in for a few hours. Although sleeping on the street isn’t the most comfortable, it is completely free, making it money saving option for the budget backpacker.
Youth Hostel
The youth hostel is probably the best option for the budget backpacker traveling Europe. The youth hostel is cheap, usually clean, and will generally be full of like minded backpackers. Dorms in Europe generally go for about 20 Euros a night. In Eastern Europe dorms can often be found for around 10 Euros a night.
Hotels
Although the youth hostel is the cheapest option for solo backpackers, many hotels can be just as cheap if not cheaper. This is especially true if you’re traveling with two or more people. You can generally find affordable and budget friendly hotels in almost every city. These cheap hotels are often similar to private rooms in youth hotels. However, it is not uncommon to find higher end hotels for the similar prices.
Conclusion
In the end, deciding on a hotel or youth hostel really depends on the city. In cities which receive a lot of backpackers, youth hotels are usually the best option no matter what. In smaller cities with less travelers, you be able to find better deals at hotels.
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