From hostel booking sites to guest houses and apartments, here’s how to find discounted, cheap lodging and budget stays when you travel the globe.
Lodging and accommodation are the most expensive travel purchases. Like you, I’m always looking for ways to save on my stay so I have more money to spend on sightseeing and activities in the places I’m visiting.
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How to Find Cheap Lodging For Travelers
In this article, I’ve listed some cheap and discounted lodging options to save on your accommodation when you travel the globe. Here they are, from backpacker hostel booking apps to guest houses and discounted apartment accommodations.
#1. HostelWorld Hostel Booking App
Hostelworld is the best site for hostel booking. It offers travelers a range of budget-friendly accommodations worldwide. It connects backpackers, solo adventurers, and groups to unique and affordable lodging options, including dormitory-style rooms and private spaces.
With a vast selection of over 17,000 of the world’s best hostels in more than 179 countries, Hostelworld provides detailed reviews, ratings, and booking features to help users find the best options suited to their needs.
This hostel booking site also offers personalized recommendations, making it easier for travelers to discover new destinations and experiences. Hostelworld caters to the growing demand for flexible, social, and low-cost travel.
#2. Booking.com Hostel Booking Site
Booking.com’s hostel booking website offers travelers an affordable and convenient way to find budget-friendly accommodations worldwide. This hostel booking system features a wide range of hostels, from lively dorm-style options to private rooms for those seeking more privacy.
Each listing includes detailed descriptions, guest reviews, and photos, making it easy to compare amenities and safety features. On the Booking.com hostel booking app, travelers can filter by price, location, and guest ratings to find options that suit their needs.
Many hostels on Booking.com provide free WiFi, communal kitchens, and organized social activities for meeting fellow travelers. With secure booking and flexible cancellation policies, hostel bookings are a reliable choice for budget-conscious adventurers.
#3. Booking.com Guest Houses
Guest houses are a budget-friendly alternative to traditional hotel rooms, offering travelers affordable, comfortable accommodations with a personal touch.
Typically smaller and privately owned, guest houses often provide cozy rooms, home-cooked breakfasts, and a welcoming atmosphere. They tend to be cheaper than hotel stays because they have fewer overhead costs and focus on essential comforts rather than luxury amenities.
Many guest houses are located in residential neighborhoods or scenic areas, giving guests a chance to experience local culture and hospitality. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, guest houses offer great value, especially for those seeking a relaxed, home-away-from-home environment.
#4. Booking.com Apartments
Apartments are a convenient, cost-effective lodging option for travelers seeking space, privacy, and flexibility. Often cheaper than hotel rooms for longer stays, apartments come fully furnished with amenities like kitchens, laundry facilities, and separate living areas.
This setup allows guests to cook meals, do laundry, and enjoy a home-like environment while traveling. Many apartments are in residential areas or city centers, offering an authentic local experience.
Booking platforms like Booking.com make it easy to find apartments with verified reviews, flexible cancellation policies, and competitive rates. Perfect for families, groups, or solo travelers, apartments combine comfort with affordability.
7 Benefits of Hostel Booking Sites
Hostel stays are a go-to option for travelers who value affordability, community, and flexibility.
From solo backpackers to student groups, hostels offer a unique travel experience — and with modern hostel booking sites, apps, and systems, finding the perfect stay is easier than ever.
Here’s a look at the top benefits of booking a hostel for your next adventure:
#1. Budget-friendly accommodation
One of the biggest draws of hostel stays is their affordability. Travelers can save significantly by choosing dormitory-style rooms or budget private rooms.
With easy access to hostel booking websites, it’s simple to compare rates and snag the best deals in popular travel destinations.
#2. Social and community atmosphere
Hostels are built for connection. Communal kitchens, lounges, and organized activities like tours and game nights make it easy to meet fellow travelers.
Many backpacker hostel booking websites highlight hostels known for their vibrant social scenes, helping you find places where friendships come easy.
#3. Flexible room options
Whether you prefer a bunk bed in a mixed dorm or a private room with an ensuite, hostels offer a variety of room types.
Using a hostel booking app or hostel booking site allows you to filter accommodations by room style, amenities, and price, ensuring a stay that suits your travel preferences.
#4. Convenient online booking
Gone are the days of wandering into hostels, hoping for a vacant bed. Today’s hostel booking system tools and youth hostel booking sites help you secure accommodation in advance or on the go.
Booking apps and websites display real-time availability, verified guest reviews, and flexible cancellation policies.
#5. Great for group and private stays
Hostels aren’t just for solo backpackers. Many now offer private hostel booking and accommodation options for couples, families, or groups of friends.
By using the best site for hostel booking, travelers can find entire dorms or private rooms for added privacy without breaking the budget.
#6. Smart hostel booking apps
Behind the scenes, hostels rely on hostel booking system software to manage reservations, payments, and guest check-ins efficiently.
This means fewer booking errors, quicker service, and smoother stays for guests booking through hostel booking apps and websites.
#7. Access travel perks and deals
Many of the best hostel booking sites and apps offer loyalty programs, flash sales, and last-minute discounts.
Travelers who regularly use these platforms can unlock perks like free breakfasts, discounted tours, or complimentary upgrades — stretching their travel budget further.
Hostel stays offer more than just a place to sleep — they deliver memorable experiences, community connections, and budget-friendly flexibility.
Thanks to modern hostel booking sites, apps, and software, travelers can easily find and book stays that fit their style and budget. Whether you’re a student, backpacker, or group of friends, the world of hostel travel is now more accessible than ever.
🔐 Safety Tips for Budget Stays
- Check recent reviews.
- Avoid ground-floor rooms if traveling alone.
- Use a door wedge alarm for extra security.
- Share your location/stay details with a friend or family member.
- Keep valuables in a lockbox or hidden in inconspicuous places.
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Trusted House Sitters and #2 up top work wonders for us Priya. Smashing list!
We are house sitting our way through New Zealand for 3 months. Save a current 2 week Air BnB stretch we are doing sits. Easy, saving thousands of dollars. We also use homeowner’s cars during sits, saving rental fees. Gotta love house sitting!
Ryan
Awesome, Ryan! You’re an inspiration for so many travellers, including me 🙂
I would love to try this one with animals, totally love it. I found an article that is really popular at New Zealand I think if I remember well. When you’re traveling the world it’s nice to know these tips 🙂
If you find house sitting interesting, consider buying my friend, Ryan Biddulph’s book, How to Land the Best House Sits Easily https://amzn.to/2k7iJKz
We are HUGE advocates of AirBnB whilst travelling. As a couple, booking an apartment through AirBnB is often the same price or cheaper than 2 of us booking a hostel! Will definitely be looking into some of these other options now though, love the sound of house-sitting.
I agree. There are lots of ways to save with AirBnB. But if you find house sitting interesting, consider buying my friend, Ryan Biddulph’s book, How to Land the Best House Sits Easily https://amzn.to/2k7iJKz
Great list for a variety of travelers. Airbnb is always my first preference now, except one not-so-good experience, it has been amazing. Sometimes I find nice options at hostelworld.com too.
Thanks for the tips, Binny.
AirBnB rocks. I have had some of my best travel experiences booking though them. This summer, it’s time again for some of that. Italy this time!
That’s awesome, Per. They do give access to some spectacular locations.
wow..very helpful info..i use only air binb and booking of the above….looks like i need to try more websites..homestays i never tried but would really give it a shot on my next travel..thanks for sharing.
Glad you found it useful, Ritika
Wow this is a very interesting list of places where I can stay either at a cheaper rate or for free. I have stayed multiple times in hostels from booking.com and also have stayed in airbnb accommodations. But never knew the other websites you mentioned. Will try them soon.
Glad you found something new in it, Shreya.
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