Budget Tips Archives - The Backpacking Site

Ultimate Checklist for First-Time Airbnb Hosts

Listing your place on Airbnb can be a great way to make extra income when you are out of town. Over time, we have perfected our system for hosting on Airbnb. This checklist for first-time Airbnb hosts is catered to people who are renting out their permanent home. We are not one of those corporate companies that buy an empty apartment to rent professionally. Read on for our advice to earn that coveted 5-star review!

Basic Requirements for Hosting on Airbnb

We started listing our 1-bedroom apartment on Airbnb for times when we are away. Not only has it helped us supplement our travel budget, but we also love knowing that our apartment is being put to use by fellow travelers!

And as an added benefit, hosting has proven to be a great way to keep on top of the deep-cleaning tasks that we used to dread. Somehow, scrubbing the toilet in preparation for a guest makes it feel less like a dreaded household chore! First off, a note about why we felt we were well-suited for Airbnb. These are not strict requirements, but these conditions help us provide the best guest experience for our guests.

An owner’s closet

Although Airbnb is a community built on trust, we felt it was a requirement to have a lockable location for valuables, documents, and personal clutter. Not only does it give us peace of mind, but it also helps to reduce the clutter for guests to make them feel at home. We store the following items in the owner’s closet:

Personal documents
Electronics and electronic cords
Bathroom and shower clutter. Bathroom counter-tops, shelves, and the shower should generally be free of personal items
Bedroom clutter. We don’t clear out our closets, but we do remove most personal clutter from shelves and surfaces
Extra coats and shoes that are normally in the entry-way
Laundry and laundry baskets.

Easy-to-follow directions for locating the apartment

Our apartment is centrally located in Munich with easy access to public transport. We think that the location of our apartment is part of the reason why we have received such positive reviews on Airbnb. Travelers might rent a car, but more likely they want an apartment that is easy to access when visiting a city.

A well-stocked kitchen

We have received positive reviews about how our kitchen is well-equipped to prepare meals at home. The ability to prepare meals is one of the reasons why people choose Airbnb over hotels, so make sure your kitchen enables them to do so.

A lockbox

Since we rent our place when we are out of town, oftentimes we are unable to greet our guests personally. Initially, we asked a friend to meet our guests, but purchasing a lockbox was a game-changer. Now we can send the guests detailed photo instructions for how to get into the apartment using the lockbox. This also gives them complete flexibility on their arrival time. We have a weatherproof lockbox, that we just lock to one of our bikes in the back garden.

Airbnb Host Shopping List

We like to leave a few special touches for our guests. Small details show the guests you care about hospitality and these items won’t break the bank! A couple of days before check-in, we make a grocery store run to make sure we have a few things in the house. Here’s our Airbnb shopping list:

Coffee
Tea
Olive oil
English muffins/small pack of bread
Baby Bell Cheese (universally loved and good for individual snacking)
Small jar of jam
Some local beers or a small bottle of local wine
Chocolate for the pillow (we love the small Lindt truffles!)
Travel-sized toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, shower gel)
Extra toilet paper

One day before Check-in: Airbnb Host Checklist

Send a check-in note to the guest
Bathroom and bedroom clutter moved to the owner’s closet
Move electronics and documents to the owner’s closet
Move entryway clutter (coast and shoes) to the owner’s closet
Turn on the guest fridge (we happen to have a small, spare fridge that we cleared out for our guests’ use)
Double-check that guest sheets and towels are clean, if not, do laundry
Stock the guest fridge (see shopping list above)
Clean the water boiler (we live in Germany where the calcium builds up over time. A bit of vinegar solves this very quickly!)
Take out recycling and bring glass bottles away
Refresh kitchen labels if needed (we label our trash, and cabinetry to help our guests find the essentials)
Dust all surfaces
Deep clean toilet
Deep clean shower
Vacuum
Run the dishwasher
Set up the coffee/tea station

Day of Check-in: Airbnb Host Checklist

On the day of check-in, you should only have a few things left to do as you prepare to welcome your guests

Make the bed with fresh sheets
Remove personal towels from the bathroom and kitchen and store them in the owner’s closet
Put set of guest towels, toiletries, and welcome chocolates the bed
Put a fresh kitchen towel folded on the kitchen counter
One last scrub of the toilet
One last shower clean
Leave a welcome note on the coffee table
Empty the dishwasher
Water plants
Leave 2 rolls of fresh toilet paper on bathroom shelves
Take the trash out, replace bags
Lock the owner’s closet
Leave the key in the lockbox

That’s it for our Airbnb host checklist! Hopefully, this will help you get started as a host on Airbnb.

Airbnb Host Checklist

March 30, 2025

How to get Free Accommodation in Exchange for Work in the UK

Budget Tips

If you have hopes of travelling to the United Kingdom, but are worried about accommodation costs, you may want to consider applying for jobs that offer free accommodation in exchange for work in the UK.

There are plenty of organisations which provide you with a steady job along with safe and clean digs in various parts of England, Wales and Ireland. To help you understand more about the process, here are examples of how to work in exchange for free accommodation in the UK.

Become a Petsitter

Combine your love of animals with your love of travel and become a Trusted Housesitter

There are plenty of people in the UK who are looking for trusted housesitters to stay at their place for free in exchange for watching their pets. For animal lovers who are responsible, reliable, and looking for a great way to travel around the UK with free accommodation, you can get started with the petsitting network, Trusted Housesitters. It’s the #1 platform where you can find tons of different options, from a chic flat in London, to a seaside countryhouse in Cornwall. A basic membership starts at just €99 for unlimited housesits worldwide, which is well-worth the cost when you think about how much accommodation in the UK can be!

Volunteer with a charity

Volunteer with an organization that offers free accommodation in exchange for work

Volunteer with an organisation that offers free accommodation in exchange for work

One of the most rewarding ways to earn your stay is by volunteering with a charity. There are various programmes that offer charity fundraiser roles that involve door-to-door charity fundraising to help fund the chosen cause.

Companies such as Wesser provide charity fundraisers work that helps them earn £10 an hour plus commission, along with free access to shared accommodation. This typically consists of a large four to five-bedroom property with various communal living areas which cater to the staff’s every need.

Work in hospitality

Some hospitality sectors in the UK offer free accommodation in exchange for work

Another great way to earn and live while travelling in the UK is by working in the hospitality sector. This could include working in a hotel as a live-in staff member who takes on the role of a receptionist or even a hotel manager.

In the UK, there are a variety of seaside and lake and holiday camps that hire seasonal workers in the spring and summer months. These jobs typically offer fair pay along with free accommodation in a cosy cabin or even a quirky tepee.

Become a live-in nanny

Become an Au Pair and get free accommodation in exchange for work

If you enjoy travelling and love kids, why not become a live-in nanny in the UK? There are plenty of vacancies available in this field. This will provide you with work in exchange for free accommodation which will definitely be a lavish and unique experience in the UK, as the majority of employers will be extremely wealthy.

There are also financial benefits of becoming a nanny, as on average, they earn upwards of £350 per week. This works out a lot cheaper than rent and can also fund your meals, as you will likely be given extra pocket money for food for you and the children. You can also use the remainder of your earnings to fund the rest of your travels.

Work on an organic farm

Work on an organic farm in the UK in exchange for free accommodation

If your dream is to travel and stay in picturesque locations, you should consider volunteering on an organic farm. This will involve living and working in the farm, where you will get involved in jobs such as picking grapes or even milking a cow or two.

One of the most popular organisations is WWOOF – World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms, which offers global opportunities for like-minded people looking to work, stay and learn all about farm life. Workaway is another great company which allows travellers to find free accommodation in exchange for farm work, while also offering the freedom of travelling like a local.

Now you have all the information you need regarding work in exchange for free accommodation in the UK, have you decided which route is right for you? Whatever you choose, it is important that you first check your visa eligibility to ensure you can legally work in the UK.

It is also vital that you thoroughly research the company you are planning to work for by looking at reviews and asking around for personal recommendations. This will ensure that your experience will be completely legal, safe and enjoyable.

February 24, 2025

How to Travel in Argentina on a Budget

Budget Tips

We love the South American country of Argentina. A few years ago, Argentina was not considered a cheap place to travel, especially compared to some other affordable countries in South America. However, the economic situation had made the country even more appealing for people who want to go backpacking for cheap in Argentina. Nowadays it’s very easy to travel in Argentina on a budget.

Pick the optimal time to visit Argentina on a budget

The best time to travel to Argentina is November – February. When it’s fall and winter in the United States and Europe, it’s spring and summer down in Argentina. You’ll find unbeatable hiking conditions in Patagonia during this time of year. Spring in the Patagonian mountains is perfect for great hiking in this area.

Things to do in Argentina

The country of Argentina has something for every type of traveller: city dwellers, nature lovers, gourmet food lovers, and party-goers.

Buenos Aires

When arriving in Buenos Aires, you will likely be surprised that a South American capital city can look so European. The city offers a world-class food scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful architecture.

Mendoza

Just 3 hours away from Buenos Aires, wine lovers will find the beautiful wine region of Mendoza. This region is the home of the world-famous full-bodied Malbec wine. Take a wine tasting tour by bike, bus, or on foot to sample different varieties.

Patagonia

Patagonia is a dream come true for nature lovers. This beautiful region has lush forests, granite rocks, glacial lakes, and waterfalls, with stunning views from every corner. Don’t miss the city of Bariloche, also known as the Lake Tahoe of South America. This deep blue lake is famous for its Circuito Chico, a bike path that circles the lake and offers unbeatable views.

How to travel to Argentina on a budget

Before you travel to Argentina, it’s essential to plan your budget. You should, of course, take travel costs, accommodation, and food into account. Depending on the purpose of your trip, you may also want to set aside some money for museum entrances, package trips, or nights out on the town. Costs can add up quickly, especially if you feel that you want to get the most out of your journey. Luckily, cheap travel in Argentina is very possible. One main reason for that right now is that the Argentine economy is currently suffering from high inflation. This is bad news for locals, but it means that the foreign currency of visitors will go far!

Once you are in the country, there are many options that will help you stick to your budget. Most cities are easy to navigate by walking or with public transportation. In the cities in the north, like Buenos Aires and Mendoza, biking is also a viable option for getting around.

How to get cheap flights to Argentina

The highest cost of your trip will probably be the cost of getting there by flight. Luckily, there are many ways to find options for cheap travel to Argentina. One of the best insider tips that we have to get a cheap flight is to sign up for a credit card that will allow you to earn points for your trip. The most important part of signing up for a new card is that many credit cards even offer a signing bonus in the form of credit card points, which you can use to purchase your flight. In fact, if you sign up for a new credit card at the right time, you can pay for your entire flight.

How to find cheap flights within Argentina

For travelling between cities in Argentina, you can travel for cheap by using a combination of flights and long-distance buses. Since Argentina covers a considerable distance, you can travel long distances on budget by using the website Despegar. This website is what the locals use. The site sells tickets at a discount because the Argentine government subsidizes some flight fares. Keep in mind that you may need to prove citizenship in Argentina, and if you are unable to verify this, you may need to pay the full price for the ticket before boarding your flight.

If you’re flying to Argentina or plan to take short flights within the country, we recommend using a few different flight comparison search engines. Kiwi is a new favourite among travelers. On average, we have found the cheap flights to Argentina with them compared to the other websites out there.

Of course, it is always worth checking Skyscanner to guarantee you’re getting the best deal. Both websites offer great flexible search options, allowing you to search the whole country of Argentina to find the cheapest airport to fly into, and also see prices for a full month if you’re flexible on travel dates.

Travel by long-distance bus

Long-distance buses are a popular way to cover vast distances and travel for cheap in Argentina. The buses are usually very comfortable, and some even offer sleeping pods. The long-distance buses are very affordable, and if you take a night bus, you will save the accommodation for the night. Most travellers have reported that it is worth getting the first-class ticket, which is still quite affordable. The buses even come with an attendant who will serve food and sometimes organize games to keep the passengers entertained! On our bus ride from Buenos Aires to Mendoza, we played a game of Bingo, and the winner received a bottle of wine!

One more thing to be said about bus travel is that you will be amazed by the sheer size of the country and the breathtaking landscape that you pass by. Even if budget is not a concern, travelling on a 14+ hour bus ride in Argentina is a fun life experience.

Meet fellow budget travellers in Argentina

Though part of the fun of backpacking Argentina is exploring on your own, there are situations, especially when venturing off the tourist trail, when it does make sense to go with a guide or a small group. For these times, a popular option among backpackers is G Adventures. They hand-select local guides to ensure authenticity and quality. This is especially a good option for those travelling Argentina alone who would like to meet up with like-minded travelers. Their most popular trips in Argentina are their 14-day End of the Earth Patagonia tour including Argentina and Chile, and their 19-day Patagonia Hiking trek.

How to find cheap accommodation while travelling in Argentina

It’s possible to find cheap accommodation while travelling in Argentina by using a combination of couch surfing, camping, and staying in hostels. This will help keep travel costs low while travelling around Argentina.

Couchsurfing

By far, the cheapest accommodation is Couchsurfing. Couchsurfing is entirely free and is also a great way to meet locals who will usually show you around their city or help integrate you into their everyday life. It’s like having a free tour guide and a built-in friend in a new place.

Camping

Especially in Patagonia, camping is a popular way to find a free place to sleep. Most of the Argentine national parks have Camping Libre facilities. These camping sites are completely free, usually with plumbing facilities for campers.

Hostels

Of course, when it comes to accommodation, the cheapest way to travel in Argentina is to stay in hostels. You can expect to pay between $12 and $20 on average for a bed in a hostel dorm room. Private rooms in a hostel can cost about $25-$30 per night. Hostels are not only a great way to save money, but also a social experience. You might even learn some more travel tricks for travel in Argentina by chatting with fellow budget travellers in the hostels. We have had good experiences finding hostels in Argentina on HostelWorld. They have the most extensive inventory of hostels worldwide, and with over 10 million reviews and ratings from other travellers, you know exactly what to expect.

Find Hotels on a Discount in Argentina

Another good way to find cheap accommodation in Argentina is by checking hotels.com and booking.com. With both sites, you’ll find not only budget hotels, but also homestays, hostels, and other unique accommodation. We have discovered some great finds and have appreciated the ability to book ahead. You can use their advanced filtering to narrow your results by budget, location score, overall review score, and amenities. Many of the places on booking.com also offer free cancellation, which takes the pressure off the planning phase of your trip.

February 18, 2025

Top 10 things to do on a budget in Malibu

Budget Tips

While Malibu may be know for its upscale vibe, there is plenty to do on a budget. The stunning coastline and breathtaking scenery mean there’s plenty to do without breaking the bank. Here’s a list of 10 budget-friendly activities to enjoy in Malibu:

1. Hike in the canyons

Two of my favorite hikes are Solstice Canyon and Escondido Falls. They offer easy to moderate hiking trails, and while exploring you’ll catch glimpses of the coast. All trails are free to access.

2. Enjoy local beers at Malibu Brewing Company

Located in Trancas Country Market, the brewery is one of my favorite places to stop and grab a bite and a flight of locally-brewed beer. While you’re waiting for your table, you can window shop at some of the funky boutiques in the shopping center.

3. Spend a day at the Getty Villa

Despite its grandeur, admission to the Getty Villa is free, although you’ll have to make reservations in advance. The Getty Villa is a gorgeous location, modeled after the great villas of Europe, featuring Greek, Roman and Etruscan artifacts. But one of the best parts of the museum is just taking in the beautiful architecture and the museum grounds.

4. Relax on world-famous beaches

Malibu is famous for huge swaths of light sand beaches and picture-perfect surf. Some of my favorite beaches are Zuma Beach, El Matador Beach, and Point Dume State Beach. All of these beaches are free to access if you park on the Pacific Coast Highway, or you can pay a small fee for parking. Spend the day just relaxing, swimming, or taking in the sweeping southern California coastline. El Matador is known for its tidepools, Point Dume has an easy to access bluff where you can do a small hike to get a bird’s eye view over the gorgeous coastline.

5. Explore Malibu Pier

While there’s a small fee for parking, visiting the pier is completely free. It’s a great pit stop to enjoy the sea breeze and people watch.

6. Window shop in Malibu Country Mart and Malibu Lumber Yard

Malibu’s outdoor shopping areas are great places to hang out and take in the Malibu vibes without the cost. These developments are part open-air boutique, part park. There’s plenty of outdoor space to just hang for an afternoon.

7. Explore Malibu Creek State Park

Enjoy hiking, picnicking and wildlife watching at Malibu Creek State Park. A network of trails will keep you busy all day if you want, and you can see beautiful landscapes, including the filming site of the old TV show *M*A*S*H*.

8. Visit the Malibu Farmer’s Market

If you’re in the area on a Sunday, don’t miss the farmer’s market. It’s a great place to browse local artisan goods, enjoy live music, and sample local produce. It’s completely free to enter and take in the relaxed Malibu atmosphere.

9. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Drive the world-famous “PCH” which will take you past views of the ocean, coastal mountains, and cliffs. Be sure to plan pit stops along the way at lookout points and beaches.

10. Watch sunset at Paradise Cove

To round out your day in Malibu, head to one of Malibu’s most famous beaches known for its beautiful sunset views. There’s a great little cafe there serving tropical drinks. Parking can be pricey but there are nearby public lots where you can park for cheap. If you’d like to spend the day there, nearby Escondido Beach is one of the best places in Malibu to stand up paddle board.

These activities can help you experience the beauty and charm of Malibu without spending a fortune. Whether you’re into nature, culture, or just soaking up the sun, there’s plenty to enjoy on a budget!

November 14, 2024

How to Have a Holiday on a Budget

Budget Tips

With the rising cost of living impacting households across the UK, many people are looking to enjoy a holiday without breaking the bank. However, budget constraints shouldn’t mean sacrificing the joy of travel. Whether you’re looking for a staycation or planning a trip abroad, you can have an enjoyable holiday while keeping costs under control.

This guide will show you how to plan a memorable getaway on a budget, from choosing the right time to travel to finding affordable accommodation and activities.

Choose off-peak travel times

Airlines and hotels often hike prices during school holidays and peak summer months. Opting for ‘shoulder season’ (just before or after peak periods) can result in significant savings. So, if you can, travel outside school summer holidays or Christmas or Easter when prices are higher.

By being flexible with your travel dates and choosing off-peak periods, you can save substantially on holiday flights, accommodation and even attractions.

Look for last-minute deals or plan in advance

Planning your trip several months ahead can lock in early-bird discounts, particularly for flights, trains and package holidays. Many travel providers offer incentives for booking early, allowing you to get the best prices.

Taking the opposite approach, if you’re flexible with your destination or dates, last-minute deals can be a great way to snap up a bargain. Travel websites frequently feature discounted holidays and hotel deals for those who can journey at short notice.

Consider alternative accommodation

By embracing alternative accommodation, not only do you save money, but you can experience your destination from a more local, authentic perspective.

For an affordable accommodation option try house-sitting. Platforms like TrustedHousesitters allow you to stay in someone’s home in exchange for looking after their property and sometimes pets.

Other sites allow you to rent a flat or house which can be more affordable than hotels, especially for families or larger groups. Plus, having access to a kitchen means you can save on eating out.

Hostels and guesthouses are no longer just for backpackers. Many hostels offer private rooms at lower rates than hotels, and guesthouses are a great way to stay centrally for less.

The UK has a wealth of campsites that provide affordable accommodation. For those who need more luxury, glamping is an upmarket alternative to traditional camping and often costs less than hotels.

Budget-friendly activities and meals

Keeping an eye on activities and food expenses is essential for staying within your holiday budget. Luckily, there are free or low-cost activities available in many destinations in the UK and abroad.

The UK’s National Parks have hundreds of miles of natural beauty that are free to wander at your leisure. For an urban break, many UK cities offer free entry to major museums and galleries, such as the British Museum or the National Gallery in London. But even the smallest towns and villages have markets and museums to enjoy, so check local listings for free cultural events or festivals.

Eating out is a big holiday expense but if your accommodation includes a kitchen, make use of markets or shops to buy your food. This cuts costs and allows you to try local ingredients. Avoid tourist restaurants and seek out off-the-beaten-track local eateries where prices are often lower and the food more authentic.

Additionally, using a budgeting app like TravelSpend can help you track your spending in real time, ensuring you stay on top of your holiday budget.

Use public transport and discount cards

Another way to keep costs down is by making use of public transport rather than renting a car or relying on taxis. Many cities offer travel cards or passes that provide unlimited travel for a set period, making it easier to get around without spending a fortune. If you plan to visit several attractions, look for discount passes or city cards, which often bundle popular activities at a reduced rate. By planning your itinerary around these deals, you can experience more while staying within your budget.

Travel with a group

Group travel can further lower costs by splitting expenses such as accommodation, food, and even transport. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, sharing rental homes, hiring a car together, or bulk-buying groceries can make a significant difference. Some attractions also offer group discounts, so it’s worth checking when planning your activities.

November 13, 2024