As a nomadic traveler, one of the most important—and often most challenging—tasks is finding affordable accommodation. Whether you’re a digital nomad working remotely or simply someone exploring the world without a fixed base, where you stay can make or break your travel experience. After years of hopping from one place to the next, I’ve picked up a variety of strategies to help keep accommodation costs low while still ensuring comfort, safety, and a sense of belonging wherever I go. Here’s a guide on how to find affordable accommodation as a nomadic traveler.
1. Embrace Hostels and Guesthouses
For many years, hostels were my go-to accommodation when I traveled. They offer some of the most affordable rates, especially in popular destinations, and have the added bonus of being hubs for meeting other travelers. While hostels are often associated with younger crowds, they’ve evolved over the years and now offer a wide range of options, from dorm rooms to private rooms with shared bathrooms.
Guesthouses are another great alternative, especially in less tourist-heavy destinations. These smaller, family-run establishments often provide a more personal and homely atmosphere at a fraction of the cost of larger hotels. I’ve stayed in guesthouses in places like Southeast Asia and Central America where the hosts went out of their way to make me feel at home, offering local tips and even sharing meals.
Many booking platforms like Hostelworld or Booking.com list hostels and guesthouses, allowing you to filter by price and location. But don’t overlook local recommendations or smaller, off-the-beaten-path options, as these can offer significant savings.
2. Consider House Sitting
One of the best-kept secrets of nomadic travelers is house sitting. House sitting allows you to stay in someone’s home for free in exchange for taking care of their property and pets. I’ve had the chance to look after dogs, cats, and even a garden while staying in beautiful homes around the world—from a mountain cabin in the Swiss Alps to a cozy apartment in Melbourne.
Websites like TrustedHousesitters and HouseSitMatch connect homeowners with reliable sitters, offering a win-win situation. The homeowners get their pets cared for and their house looked after, while you get a comfortable place to stay at no cost. House sitting is ideal for long-term stays and can help you save a significant amount of money on accommodation, especially in expensive cities.
3. Use Airbnb for Longer Stays
Airbnb isn’t just for short-term rentals; it can be a great option for nomadic travelers looking to stay in one place for a longer period. Many hosts offer discounts for extended stays, often up to 30% or more for stays of a week or longer. I’ve often used Airbnb for stays of 1-3 months, particularly in cities where renting an apartment is costly.
The key to finding affordable Airbnb options is to be flexible with your dates, as prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year. You can also filter search results by price range, and look for listings that offer basic amenities, avoiding those with unnecessary luxuries. Additionally, make sure to read host reviews carefully to ensure the place is as advertised—sometimes the cheaper options may require you to compromise on location or comfort, but I’ve found plenty of hidden gems if I do a bit of research.
4. Look for Local Homestays and Cultural Exchanges
Homestays offer travelers the opportunity to stay with a local family, gaining insight into their culture while enjoying affordable accommodation. This type of arrangement is common in countries like India, Nepal, and Indonesia, and often includes meals, which makes it an even more economical option.
Platforms like Homestay.com and Workaway provide connections between travelers and local families or hosts. In exchange for room and board, you may be asked to help with household chores, language lessons, or community projects. This gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the local way of life, while also keeping costs down.
I’ve had some of my most memorable experiences staying with local families, from cooking together in rural Thailand to helping teach English in a village in Ecuador. It’s an enriching experience that goes beyond just saving money—it’s an opportunity to truly connect with the culture.
5. Couchsurfing – Stay with Locals for Free
Couchsurfing is a classic option for nomadic travelers looking for free accommodation. The platform connects travelers with hosts who offer their couches (or even spare rooms) for free. While it’s not guaranteed that every host will be available, I’ve had incredibly positive experiences with Couchsurfing, staying with people who were not only welcoming but eager to share their city and their lives with me.
One of the most appealing aspects of Couchsurfing is the ability to meet locals and gain insights into the area that you wouldn’t find in guidebooks. I’ve stayed with hosts in everything from beachside apartments in Spain to a treehouse in Costa Rica, all for free. Plus, it’s a great way to meet fellow travelers if you’re looking for companionship during your stay.
Couchsurfing does require some effort to build a trustworthy profile and receive positive reviews, so be sure to take your time when choosing a host. And while it’s free, it’s always nice to show appreciation through small gestures, like bringing a gift or cooking a meal.
6. Camping and RVing
For travelers who love the outdoors, camping is a cost-effective way to find accommodation. Whether you’re in a national park or staying on a secluded beach, camping offers an affordable option to spend the night in nature. Many countries, such as New Zealand, Canada, and parts of Europe, have well-maintained campsites with facilities, allowing for a safe and comfortable experience.
Alternatively, RVing is becoming an increasingly popular way for nomads to travel. Renting or owning an RV gives you the freedom to move from one location to another without worrying about accommodation. While RV rentals can be pricey, there are numerous apps and websites like Campendium and Park4Night that help you find affordable or even free camping spots. In some countries, you can even park overnight in designated areas for little to no cost.
7. Work Exchange Programs
Work exchange programs are another fantastic way to secure free accommodation while traveling. Platforms like WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms), HelpX, and Workaway allow travelers to work in exchange for room and board. The work can vary, from farm labor to hostel assistance to helping in community projects, and typically requires a few hours of work each day.
Not only is this a cost-effective way to stay in different places, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture. I’ve spent time working on organic farms in Italy, volunteering in remote mountain lodges in Nepal, and helping in local cafes across South America. These experiences often come with the bonus of meeting incredible people and forging lasting friendships.