Travel should not be expensive (unless you want it to be). By considering how you spend your money you will be able to travel more and have increasingly adventurous experiences.

Accommodation is a fantastic way to save money especially if you are adventurous. You are only here to sleep and maybe relax. The majority of time in your room is spent sleeping so it doesn't need to be like the Ritz every time.

Here are some ways that I have saved money over the years of travelling.

1) Backpacker Hostels: Cost $5 – $20 Per Night

Hostels are a great option for any traveller. I have been in many and every time had a great experience. I have even encouraged my parents to use hostels from time to time. Generally, rooms & bathrooms are shared by many people which helps keep costs low. Most have bunk beds, the more plush have small cubes to sleep in. Normally hostels allow you to use a secure locker to keep items safe and there is often a kettle and somewhere to make some toast.

A top tip if you are worried about sleeping in the same room as strangers is to check if the hostels have any double rooms. Many do, this way you can still benefit from the social atmosphere of a hostel while getting some privacy.

Hostelling Advice:

• Avoid hostels that don’t provide lockers for your valuables
• Earplugs & an eye-mask are a great idea
• HostelBookers.com
• Booking.com

2 ) Guest Houses: Cost $8 - $50 Per Night

A guesthouse or small budget hotel provides a simple, affordable room. Often this comes with a barebones service and may not include breakfast. Finding a quality guest house or budget hotel is a bit more challenging as there are some less inspiring places. When I stay in this type of accommodation it is normally by personal recommendation or by exeptional trip advisor reviews.

Guest House Advice:

• Always ask to see the room first
• Make sure windows & doors are safe

3) Short-Term Apartment: Cost $10 - 50 Per Night

This includes Airbnb rooms where you can get fantastic deals. AirBnB comes into its own when you are happy to just have a room in someones house, rather than an entire place to yourself. Again, this is a great way to meet new people and get fantastic travel advice from a true local. Often you will get breakfast included and you are normally allowed to use the kitchen, another great way to save money in some cities.

Apartments feel like a home away from home. I have always found the customer service the best. Great wifi, because the full time resident has to use it!

Apartment Advice:

• Choose places with a good number of high reviews
• Research the apartment’s location & transportation options
• AirBnB is one of the best places to find short-term rentals

4) Local Homestay: Cost $10 - 50 Per Night

Homestays can be similar to a shared AirBnB accommodation. They are normally more geared towards tourists and will have more knowledge about local tour operators and local tourist attractions. They are a great way to get to grips with local culture. Normally you will get dinner and breakfast. You will be expected to interact with your hosts, so don't choose this option if you want lots of privacy.

Homestay Advice:

• Check if your homestay includes meals, and which meals
• Be open-minded and willing to chat with your host family.

Top Tip

Save money on accommodation. Then you can spend it on food, day trips or an adventure that you have always wanted. You won't necessarily remember where you stayed on holiday, but you certainly will remember the adventures you had.