How to Find Affordable Housing While Travelling

Finding affordable and comfortable housing is key to a great travel experience. Whether you are working remotely or exploring the world, choosing the right place to stay can save you money and stress.

This guide will show you easy ways to find cheap travel rentals, reliable options for digital nomad housing, and smart tips for securing budget accommodations.

Why Finding Affordable Housing Matters

Accommodation is often your biggest travel cost. If you overspend, it can limit your adventures or even cut your trip short.

For digital nomads, finding a place that is affordable, quiet, and has strong Wi-Fi is essential. You need a home base where you can work, sleep, and recharge.

Starting with good housing means you can stay focused on work, enjoy your new surroundings, and keep your budget in check.

Pro tip: The cheapest place is not always the best. Always balance price with comfort, internet speed, and safety.

Quick Checklist: Finding Budget-Friendly Housing

Before booking your stay:

• Set your maximum budget per week or month.
• Compare prices on multiple websites.
• Choose places close to public transport or coworking spaces.
• Look beyond city centres for cheaper deals.
• Book longer stays for bigger discounts.
• Join nomad or expat housing groups.
• Read recent reviews carefully.
• Contact hosts directly to ask for discounts.
• Travel during off-peak seasons.
• Always check the Wi-Fi quality before booking.

Important: Always double-check the cancellation policies. Plans change, and flexible bookings save money later.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Find Affordable Housing While Travelling

1. Set Your Budget First

Start by knowing how much you can spend each month or week. Think about all costs, including rent, internet, bills, and transport.

Example: If you earn £2000 a month, try to spend no more than £700–£900 on housing.

Having a clear budget helps you avoid wasting time on places you cannot afford.

2. Use the Best Booking Platforms

Use different websites depending on your needs.

Good platforms for cheap travel rentals:

• Airbnb (for short stays).
• Booking.com (for hotels and apartments).
• Flatio and NomadX (for monthly rentals).
• Facebook Groups (for private deals).

Tip: Always check prices on at least two platforms. Some properties are cheaper on one site than another.

3. Avoid Tourist Hotspots

Tourist areas are often much more expensive. Look a little outside the city centre.

Benefits of staying outside:

• Lower rent.
• Safer, quieter areas.
• More local experiences.

Use Google Maps to find neighbourhoods that are 10–20 minutes away from popular spots.

4. Book Longer to Get Bigger Discounts

Many hosts offer discounts for stays over 28 days.

Advantages of longer stays:

• Lower daily rates.
• More stability.
• No need to move all the time.

Always ask the host for a monthly discount, even if it is not listed online.

5. Tap into Local Communities

Sometimes the best deals are shared privately.

Where to find hidden housing options:

• Local Facebook groups for expats and digital nomads.
• Coworking spaces’ noticeboards.
• Word of mouth from other travellers.

Joining local groups early can save you hundreds each month.

6. Prioritise What Matters Most

Focus on essential needs, especially if you are working remotely.

Must-haves for digital nomad housing:

• Reliable high-speed internet.
• A quiet, safe environment.
• A comfortable workspace.
• A decent kitchen if you plan to cook.

Extras like pools or gyms are nice, but should not come before work and safety needs.

7. Travel in Off-Peak Seasons

Accommodation prices drop outside peak tourist months.

Benefits of off-peak travel:

• Lower housing costs.
• More options are available.
• Hosts are more open to discounts.

Example: Visit Europe in spring or autumn instead of summer.

Best Practices for Securing Cheap Travel Rentals

• Negotiate Prices: Always ask if hosts can offer better rates, especially for long stays.
• Use Smart Filters: Filter by price, amenities, and Wi-Fi speed on booking sites.
• Book Early: The best deals go fast, especially in popular nomad cities.
• Check Reviews: Focus on reviews mentioning internet speed, safety, and cleanliness.
• Stay Flexible: Being open about your dates or location can save you a lot.

FAQs

1. Where can I find the cheapest rentals for digital nomads?

Platforms like Flatio, NomadX, and Facebook groups often have better deals than big websites.

2. How much should I spend monthly on housing while travelling?

Most nomads aim to spend around 30–40% of their monthly income on accommodation.

3. Is it safe to rent through private listings or Facebook groups?

Yes, but meet the landlord in public, use contracts, and avoid large cash payments upfront.

Conclusion: Your Key to Affordable, Comfortable Housing Abroad

Finding affordable places to stay while travelling is a key skill. It can really improve your adventures. With some careful planning and thorough research, you can discover amazing places to stay that won’t deplete your finances.

This guide gives you clear strategies to find affordable travel rentals. It also emphasises the importance of ensuring safe and reliable housing, especially for digital nomads. By implementing these valuable tips, you can enrich your travel experiences while keeping your costs manageable.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a lengthy journey, these insights will empower you to make informed choices. Enjoy your travels without the stress of overspending, and savour each moment with confidence and peace of mind. Your adventures can be both memorable and budget-friendly.

Ready to find your next home away from home? Download our Affordable Housing Checklist now and start saving.