As a digital nomad, one of the most important aspects of your lifestyle is having access to affordable, comfortable accommodation while you work remotely. Whether you’re moving between cities every month or staying in one place for a while, finding cheap accommodation is a constant challenge. It’s crucial to strike a balance between cost, comfort, and convenience, especially since accommodation can eat up a significant portion of your travel budget.
In this guide, we’ll explore tips, websites, and apps that will help you find cheap accommodation while traveling as a digital nomad. You’ll learn how to book cost-effective stays, what alternatives to hotels you should consider, and the best platforms to use for long-term rentals or short stays.
Why Finding Cheap Accommodation is Essential for Digital Nomads
As a digital nomad, you’re likely not just taking a short vacation—you’re living a location-independent lifestyle. This means you need to find places to stay that fit your budget while still offering the amenities necessary for a productive workday, like reliable Wi-Fi and a comfortable workspace. If you’re constantly on the move, finding affordable accommodation becomes even more important, as it can be the difference between a comfortable, stress-free stay and one where you’re always worried about your finances.
Since accommodation can be one of the largest ongoing expenses for digital nomads, finding ways to save will allow you to enjoy your travels and focus on your work without worrying about your budget. Below are some practical tips to help you achieve just that.
Top Tips for Finding Budget Accommodation as a Digital Nomad
1. Prioritize Flexible Locations and Dates
One of the best ways to save money on accommodation is to be flexible. As a digital nomad, you likely have some freedom over your schedule, which means you can take advantage of cheaper rates by traveling during off-peak times. Avoid traveling during holidays or weekends, as prices for accommodation are usually higher then.
Additionally, if you’re willing to stay a little outside city centers, you can often find cheaper places to stay that still offer easy access to coworking spaces and transportation. With a little extra commute time, you can save a significant amount on rent or nightly rates.
Pro Tip: Use platforms like Google Flights or Skyscanner to check flexible dates and destinations for the most affordable travel options. You can even search for nearby cities to compare accommodation costs.
2. Consider Long-Term Stays or Sublets
As a digital nomad, you often need longer-term accommodation options. Many websites offer discounted rates for longer stays, so it’s worth looking into month-to-month rentals or sublets.
Renting long-term allows you to settle in one place and avoid the hassle of frequent check-ins/check-outs. Plus, many landlords offer better rates for longer commitments, which can save you money in the long run.
Pro Tip: Websites like Airbnb and Vrbo offer discounts for monthly stays, which can be a great way to save money while getting a comfortable and reliable place to work remotely.
3. Opt for Alternative Accommodation Types
As a digital nomad, your accommodation doesn’t always need to be a traditional hotel. There are many alternative options that can be both affordable and offer great amenities for working remotely.
- Hostels: While hostels are typically associated with backpackers, many now offer private rooms and excellent facilities for digital nomads. You’ll often find amenities like Wi-Fi, common workspaces, and even coworking areas in larger hostels.
- Guesthouses and Boutique Hotels: Guesthouses are often cheaper than mainstream hotels and provide a more intimate, local experience. Many also offer work-friendly environments.
- Co-living Spaces: Co-living spaces are designed with digital nomads in mind. These spaces offer a community of like-minded individuals and provide the perfect work-life balance, with private rooms, shared living areas, and coworking spaces.
Pro Tip: Look for Co-living communities such as Outsite or Selina, which offer affordable, work-friendly living spaces tailored to remote workers.
4. Use Reviews and Recommendations from Fellow Digital Nomads
Digital nomads often share accommodation recommendations through online communities. Travel forums, Facebook groups, and digital nomad blogs are excellent places to ask for recommendations, read reviews, and get tips on where to find the best deals.
There’s no better resource than fellow nomads who’ve already tested accommodation options. You’ll get the lowdown on everything from Wi-Fi quality to the suitability of a space for working.
Pro Tip: Join digital nomad communities such as Nomad List or Facebook groups like “Digital Nomads Around the World” for accommodation recommendations, insider tips, and local advice.
Best Websites for Finding Cheap Accommodation as a Digital Nomad
When it comes to booking cheap accommodation, there are several websites that cater specifically to digital nomads and budget-conscious travelers. These platforms offer a wide variety of options, from short-term rentals to long-term stays, and often provide user reviews and ratings that help you make the right choice.
- Booking.com – Booking.com is one of the most popular booking platforms, offering a range of affordable accommodations, from hotels and hostels to apartments and guesthouses. They also provide free cancellation options, which is helpful if your plans change.
- Airbnb – Airbnb offers both short-term and long-term rentals, making it an ideal platform for digital nomads. You’ll find private rooms, apartments, or even entire homes at affordable prices. Plus, Airbnb often provides amenities like a fully equipped kitchen, allowing you to save money on meals.
- Hostelworld – If you’re open to staying in a shared dorm or a private room in a hostel, Hostelworld is the best site to find affordable options. Many hostels now offer amenities that cater specifically to digital nomads, such as high-speed Wi-Fi and coworking spaces.
- Agoda – Agoda is particularly popular for travelers heading to Asia and offers budget-friendly accommodations, from hostels to guesthouses and even serviced apartments.
- NomadX – Specifically designed for digital nomads, NomadX offers co-living spaces, workspaces, and affordable rentals across the world. This platform connects you with accommodations that are ideal for remote workers, providing workspaces and a community.
Using these websites will give you access to some of the best deals, whether you’re looking for short-term accommodation or a place to settle in for a longer stay.
Best Apps for Booking Cheap Accommodation on the Go
Digital nomads are always on the move, so having the right apps on your phone can make booking accommodation easier and more affordable. Here are some top apps for finding cheap accommodation while traveling:
- HotelTonight – Perfect for last-minute bookings, HotelTonight specializes in offering discounts on same-day hotel bookings. This app is great for digital nomads who like to keep their plans flexible or need to extend their stay unexpectedly.
- Couchsurfing – For digital nomads looking for free accommodation, Couchsurfing is the ultimate solution. Through this app, you can stay with locals around the world for free, while also connecting with other travelers and immersing yourself in the culture of the places you visit.
- Hopper – Hopper helps you track the best time to book flights and accommodation based on price trends. By receiving notifications when prices drop, you can secure the cheapest deals.
- Trivago – Trivago compares prices from various booking sites, helping you find the best deals for hotels, apartments, and more.
- Kayak – Kayak aggregates accommodation options from multiple sources, allowing you to compare prices and book directly through the app.
Other Affordable Accommodation Options for Digital Nomads
If you’re looking to save even more on accommodation, consider these alternatives:
- House-Sitting: Websites like TrustedHousesitters allow you to stay in people’s homes for free in exchange for taking care of their pets or property.
- Work Exchanges: Platforms like Workaway and WWOOF offer opportunities to work a few hours a day in exchange for accommodation and meals, ideal for long-term stays.
Conclusion: Finding Cheap Accommodation as a Digital Nomad
For digital nomads, finding affordable accommodation is an essential part of sustaining your lifestyle. By using the tips, websites, and apps outlined in this post, you can reduce your accommodation costs while still having comfortable, work-friendly places to stay.
Whether you’re booking a month-long stay in a co-living space, staying in a private room in a hostel, or taking advantage of house-sitting opportunities, the key to saving money is being flexible and resourceful. And with the right tools at your disposal, you’ll be able to book great accommodation deals, wherever you go.