Rick Steves' Affordable Lodging Tip To Save Money While Traveling In Europe

Travel expert Rick Steves has made a name for himself helping Americans experience Europe authentically and on a budget. Whether he's recommending where to eat to save money on food in Europe or general money tips to make the most of your European travels, Steves has a veritable host of useful ways to save some moolah as you gallivant the continent. The writer especially loves to advise how to book a budget-friendly hotel in Europe, as he knows that accommodation can quickly ruin any budget. And one of his best tips for saving significant cash on the other side of the Atlantic is to stay in hostels.

Now, hostels admittedly have a certain reputation, whether that's a grimy party hub with communal everything or something out of a horror movie. But don't give up on hostels just yet! Steves himself calls them "the cure for expensive, lonely travel" and "one of the easiest ways to make a trip affordable" on his website. His website forums are littered with stories of travelers of all ages reveling in that hostel life. The guidebook author even highlights a few that he considers "sightseeing destinations in themselves." Here's how to save money in hostels — and make the best of communal living.

If you're on a tight budget but want to explore other countries rather than just Europe's most affordable destinations, a hostel could be your accommodation solution. Depending on where you are in Europe, you could spend as little as $40 a night for a hostel bed, according to Rick Steves. And in the most budget-friendly cities, you might pay even less — for example, in Tbilisi, Georgia, you can snag a hostel bed for just $6 a night.

For the cheapest beds, you'll have a single in a dorm (often in a bunk), with a shared bathroom down the hall. Hostels also have a variety of common spaces and usually a kitchen where you can cook — another excellent way to save money. Most hostels offer family rooms or private rooms, along with private bathrooms, for a higher rate. Even with a private room, you'll still be able to take advantage of the social aspect. As Steves notes on his website, "millions of travelers — including many older adventurers who could afford a nice hotel — love hostels just as much for the chance to connect with fellow travelers from around the world." Plus, some truly cool buildings around Europe (and the world) have been turned into hostels. From a prison in Slovenia to a chalet in Switzerland, they run the gamut.  

There are some downsides. Privacy is something you give up, along with some creature comforts. Bring your own towel, and a lock, as theft can be an issue. You'll also need to book ahead of time, especially during high season, and some hostels definitely have a reputation for wild crowds. Despite these cons, however, travelers of all ages love a good hostel. So, consider avoiding wasting money on expensive hotels and going the hostel route when you explore Europe. It's kinder to your wallet — and your social life!