Majjas Travel Diary

Hostels, Hotels, or Hustling for Free Stays – Where Should You Crash?

So, you’re planning a trip and wondering where you’re going to crash? Do you fork out the cash for a swanky hotel, tough it out in a hostel, or go the hustle route and find a free place to stay? Spoiler: Each option has its perks and pitfalls. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of the most common accommodation types, plus a few secret ways to stay for free (yep, really).

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Hostels: The Budget-Friendly Social Hubs

Pros:

• Cheap as chips – Hostels are typically the most budget-friendly option, especially for backpackers or first-time travelers who don’t want to break the bank. Expect dorm rooms and shared bathrooms, but at a fraction of the cost of a hotel. (A lot of these also have a single room option if you don’t mind paying a little extra for privacy while still being able to connect with other travelers.)
• Meet people – Hostels are like the social hubs of the travel world. You’ll meet fellow wanderers, swap stories, and maybe even find your next travel buddy. Many hostels also have organized events or pub crawls to help you break the ice.
• Kitchen access – Many hostels offer kitchen facilities, meaning you can cook your own meals and save even more money. Hostel food prices are usually steep, so this is a major win if you want to keep costs low.

Cons:

• Lack of privacy – Sharing a room with strangers can be a bit of a gamble. You’ll likely be in a dorm with multiple beds, so if you’re someone who likes their personal space, this could be a dealbreaker.
• Noise – While it’s great for socializing, it’s also loud. Between the late-night party animals and the early risers, getting a good night’s sleep can sometimes be a challenge.
• Varying quality – Not all hostels are created equal. Some are gems with great atmospheres, while others can be a bit…sketchy. Always check reviews before booking!

Hotels: Comfort with a Side of Convenience

Pros:

• Privacy and comfort – Unlike hostels, hotels offer more privacy. You’ll have your own room, bathroom, and probably a comfy bed that’s not sandwiched between two strangers.
• Amenities – Hotels often have nice perks like free Wi-Fi, room service, breakfast buffets, and sometimes even a pool or gym. For those who like a little luxury while traveling, hotels can be worth the splurge.
• Consistency – You generally know what you’re getting with a hotel—whether it’s a chain or a boutique spot. There’s usually a certain standard of service that you can rely on.

Cons:

• Cost – Hotels can be expensive, especially in tourist-heavy areas. If you’re traveling on a tight budget, this might not be your best bet.
• Less social – Hotels aren’t usually the place to meet fellow travelers. It’s more about getting in, relaxing, and checking out. If you’re looking to mingle and make friends, hostels or co-living spaces are a much better fit.

Hustling for Free Stays: House-Sitting, Workaway, and Other Hacks

Okay, so you want to travel and save money? Let’s talk about hustling for free stays. Here are a few options to consider:

House-Sitting: Free Stay, Free Vibes

House-sitting involves looking after someone’s home (and sometimes pets) while they’re away. In exchange, you get to stay there for free. It’s a win-win, especially if you love animals or don’t mind taking care of a place while the owners are off on their own adventures.

How it works:
You can sign up for house-sitting websites like TrustedHousesitters, where homeowners post listings looking for sitters. You’ll usually be responsible for basic tasks like feeding pets, watering plants, or just keeping the house in good shape.

Pros:

• Free accommodation = $$$ saved.
• Get a taste of living like a local in someone’s home.
• Often in cool locations—maybe a beach house or a countryside retreat.

Cons:

• Limited availability—house-sits are competitive, so you’ll need to apply early and be flexible.
• You’re responsible for someone else’s home (and pets), so it’s not for everyone.

Workaway: Travel + Work = Free Room & Board

If you’re looking to get involved with a local project (whether it’s farming, teaching, or helping out with eco-tourism), Workaway is a great option. In exchange for a few hours of work per day, you’ll get free accommodation and meals.

How it works:
Workaway connects travelers with hosts who need help with various tasks. Some of these experiences are in remote areas, while others are in more touristy spots. In return for your work, you’ll get to stay for free.

Pros:

• You’ll get to travel and immerse yourself in local culture while keeping costs low.
• It’s a great way to meet other travelers and locals.
• You can learn new skills—whether it’s farming, construction, or working with kids.

Cons:

• It’s not always vacation—sometimes the work can be hard or tedious.
• The hours of work can vary, and sometimes the accommodation isn’t always what you’d expect.

How to Find Cheap but Good Places to Stay

No matter what your accommodation style is, there are some great tools to help you find affordable places that don’t skimp on quality:

• Skiplagged – You can also use Skiplagged to book flights and look for deals on cheap stays.
• Hostelworld – For hostels, Hostelworld is your go-to app for booking and finding great deals.
• Expedia.com – This site not only offers hotels but also vacation rentals, apartments, and guesthouses that can be more affordable than traditional hotels.
• VRBO.com – You can find everything from budget rooms to entire homes here. Plus, it’s a great way to live like a local.

Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, it depends on your travel style, budget, and what kind of experience you want. Hostels are great for socializing and meeting people, hotels offer more comfort and privacy, and hustling for free stays through house-sitting or Workaway can seriously save you some cash.

If you’re looking to meet new people and have a fun time, hostels are a solid choice. But if you’re craving peace, privacy, and a little more luxury, hotels might be the move. And if you’re in it to save money and dive deep into local culture, get your hustle on with free stays!

Happy travels, and may your next accommodation be both comfy and affordable! ✌️🌍