Explore Alternative Travel Accommodations to Cut Costs During Travel

For travelers getting the right accommodation in accordance with their budget is the barometer of success in any enjoyable trip. Besides the traditional options of Hotel and holiday homes there are so many alternative options in travel accommodations that include small hotels, local hosts, renting a house and snagging a couch. 

Alternatives to Hotels

It is for you to make an informed choice of these options. With so many choices in front of you it may be a bit hard to choose the option on where to stay during your travels. Most people opt for hotels without exploring other alternatives available. The alternate accommodation options for your vacation will be worthwhile. Already luxurious serviced apartments have emerged as an alternative to hotels. The good news is that travel accommodations are plenty if you are a little imaginative as discussed below.

Hostels for Backpackers

Even in London travel, Hostels are a popular choice for backpackers. It is an economical choice for those travelers who do bother sharing their personal space. This cheaper option provides a bed to sleep in a shared room that may be co-ed or gender based.

If you are lucky you can even find a semi-private room with a semi-private bathroom. The shared bathrooms, bunk beds and small hostels will become free in lieu of the part-time work at the concerned hostel if the backpackers are ready to volunteer. 

Bed and Breakfasts

There are homeowners who rent out bedrooms for travelers with private rooms which may be private bathroom attached or sharable with other guests. The breakfast will be served in the bedroom or in a shared dining area. This is good for young couples looking for one night stop during a road trip. These bed and breakfasts avenues are well-kept and also serve as a great source of information on local attractions.

Local host accommodations

A traveler going on a pilgrimage or mission trip can avail local host accommodations which are the cheapest form of long-term accommodation by the locals. For Europe bound travelers, the option of staying at a monastery or convent will also work well. The costs are drastically cheaper and the proximity to local attractions compared to hotels make it more lucrative.

Couch Surfing 

Couch surfing has already attracted 3 million people already. It is all about finding someone willing to offer their couch for a few nights and get information on the local spots. Its risks are in the choice of the surfer/provider after reviewing their credentials.

Rental Car 

A rented car will keep you mobile at your own pace. It also offers the option to sleep in the rented car after parking in a nice neighborhood and snooze away. This one has no perks such as showers or breakfasts but it will give you a sleep that is not expensive. It is the cheapest option considering the fact that you are paying for it on a daily basis. It cuts the big costs of booking a short-stay apartments in London.

Eat Well 

In this alternative mode of accommodation, eating well should not be a problem. So look for places where hot breakfast is available. The word hot is important as anyone can offer coffee and pastries but the good ones will have waffles, bacon and egg. If the breakfast is good you can settle for a lighter lunch and save good money.

If the vacation stretches far beyond a week it is ideal to look for a place with a kitchenette to  cut down costs as that will save money one you are cooking your own meals instead of eating out every day. So visit the closest supermarket immediately on your arrival and get the provisions.

Now you will need a place to do your laundry especially if you have packed light or are traveling with children. In this case, make sure that you carry a bit of your own detergent from home and have lots of loose change with you.