Hotels are the default choice, but they're rarely the best value. Alternative accommodations can save 50-75% while providing richer experiences. Here's the full landscape of options.
Hostels: Not Just for Students
Modern hostels have evolved far beyond backpacker dorms. Many now offer:
- Private rooms with ensuite bathrooms
- Design-forward spaces that rival boutique hotels
- Social atmospheres that solo travelers love
- Locations in prime neighborhoods
Even if you're over 25, don't dismiss hostels. Private rooms in quality hostels often beat budget hotels on price, location, and character. Platforms like Hostelworld show reviews by age group—look for properties popular with 30+ travelers if you're past the party phase.
Vacation Rentals: Beyond the Hype
Airbnb and VRBO make sense in specific situations:
- Groups: Per-person cost drops dramatically with multiple bedrooms
- Long stays: Weekly and monthly discounts are substantial
- Kitchen access: Cooking breakfast and some meals saves money
- Space: More room than hotel rooms for families
Watch out for cleaning fees that make short stays expensive. A $80/night rental with a $150 cleaning fee costs $230 for one night but only $102/night for a week.
Home Exchange: Free Accommodation Worldwide
Home exchange platforms (HomeExchange, Love Home Swap) let you swap homes with other travelers. Once you pay the membership fee ($150-200/year typically), accommodation is free.
Requirements:
- You need a desirable home or apartment to offer
- Comfort with strangers in your space
- Flexibility to coordinate with exchange partners
Best for: Homeowners in desirable locations who travel frequently. The savings are enormous if you can make it work.
House Sitting: Get Paid to Travel
Pet owners need reliable people to watch their homes and animals while traveling. House sitting platforms (TrustedHousesitters, MindMyHouse) connect travelers willing to provide this service in exchange for free accommodation.
The trade: You get free lodging in often beautiful homes. They get peace of mind about their pets. Some sits even include use of a car.
Competition is fierce for popular destinations. Build a strong profile, start with less desirable sits to get reviews, and apply quickly to new listings.
Couchsurfing: Cultural Exchange
Couchsurfing isn't just about free couches—it's about cultural exchange. Hosts offer space because they want to meet travelers and share their culture. In exchange, you bring conversation, stories, and genuine interest in their lives.
Best for: Solo travelers comfortable with uncertainty, interested in authentic local experiences over tourist comfort.
The platform has evolved—there's now a verification fee, and some hosts expect more reciprocity. But the spirit of cultural exchange remains.
Monastery and Convent Stays
Many religious communities offer simple, clean accommodation to travelers. In Europe, monastery stays can be remarkably affordable in expensive cities like Rome or Florence.
Expectations vary: Some are silent retreats, others just simple guesthouses. Research specific properties for their rules and atmosphere.
Booking through MonasteryStays.com or directly with religious communities.
University Housing
During summer breaks and between semesters, universities often rent vacant dorm rooms to visitors. Simple accommodation in often central locations.
Best in: UK (college stays are established), US (varies by school), Australia, major university cities worldwide.
Check university websites directly—this isn't widely advertised but often available.
Choosing the Right Option
Match accommodation type to trip type:
- Social trip, meeting people: Hostels, Couchsurfing
- Family travel: Vacation rentals, home exchange
- Long-term stay: Vacation rentals with monthly discounts, house sitting
- Luxury experience on budget: Home exchange in upscale neighborhoods
- Simple and cheap: Hostels, monasteries