In today’s digital age, it is becoming increasingly common for people to work remotely and travel while earning a living. The rise of location-independent entrepreneurs, also known as digital nomads, has created a need for affordable housing solutions for those who want to travel for an extended period of time.
For many people, staying in hotels can be expensive, especially if they are traveling for a longer period. Therefore, finding affordable housing options is crucial for those who want to travel and work at the same time. Here are some ways location-independent entrepreneurs and travelers can find affordable housing for a month or more.
Vacation Rentals
One of the most affordable options for travelers and digital nomads is a vacation rental. Nowadays, many vacation rental platforms offer long-term rental options to attract new customers. This type of accommodation can be a great alternative to hotels and can provide a more comfortable and homely environment.
One of the most popular vacation rental platforms that offer long-term rentals is Airbnb. With Airbnb, you can find a wide range of rental properties, including apartments, houses, and even boats. The best part is that Airbnb’s long-term rentals are often significantly cheaper than staying in a hotel for the same period.
House Sitting
House sitting is a great way to travel and stay somewhere for free. House sitting involves taking care of someone’s home and pets while they are away. In exchange, you get free accommodation for the duration of your stay.
House sitting can be a fantastic option for digital nomads who want to stay in a location for an extended period. It is also a great way to save money on accommodation costs while being able to experience life like a local.
There are many online platforms that connect house sitters and homeowners, such as TrustedHousesitters.com, MindMyHouse.com, and HouseCarers.com. These platforms offer various house-sitting opportunities in destinations worldwide.
Coliving Spaces
Coliving spaces are communal living arrangements where people live together and share common areas, such as kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms. The concept of coliving is becoming increasingly popular among digital nomads and travelers, as it offers affordable accommodation options and a sense of community.
Coliving spaces are usually fully equipped with all the necessary amenities, such as Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and even coworking spaces. Therefore, they can be an excellent option for location-independent entrepreneurs who need to work while traveling.
Platforms like Common, Roam, and Outsite offer excellent coliving options worldwide. These spaces can provide a highly social environment that can be conducive to networking, collaborating, and building relationships with like-minded individuals.
Hostels
Hostels are another popular and affordable option for travelers and digital nomads. Hostels offer cheap accommodation with a dormitory-style setup, where travelers can share a room with other guests. Although they may not offer a lot of privacy, they are excellent for socializing and meeting new people.
Many hostels offer private rooms that come with a private bathroom, which can provide a more comfortable option. Hostels are usually equipped with essential amenities, such as Wi-Fi and laundry facilities.
Hostelworld.com is one of the most popular platforms for booking hostels worldwide. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, including private rooms, dorms, and shared rooms.
Subletting
Subletting is another option that location-independent entrepreneurs and travelers can consider when looking for affordable housing for a month or more. Subletting involves renting out an apartment or house from the original tenant or leaseholder.
This option can be cheaper than renting a new apartment since the original tenant may already have furniture and utilities, reducing move-in costs. However, it’s important to check the lease agreement before subletting as many rental units prohibit subletting.
Platforms such as Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can be helpful in finding available sublets or roommates.
Work for Accommodation
Another way to find affordable housing when traveling is by working for accommodation. This involves working for a hostel, hotel, homestay, or farm in exchange for a place to stay.
Work for accommodation gigs can range from volunteering at a hostel in exchange for a free bed to working as a housekeeper or landscaper at a farm in exchange for food and accommodation.
There are several platforms such as Workaway, HelpX and WWOOF that connect travelers with hosts in need of help in exchange for accommodation.
Extended Stay Hotels or Serviced Apartments
Extended-stay hotels and serviced apartments can also be affordable housing options for location-independent entrepreneurs and travelers who plan to stay for a month or more. These types of accommodations come equipped with amenities such as Wi-Fi, kitchenettes, and on-site laundry facilities, making them more comfortable and convenient.
Platforms like Booking.com and Hotels.com offer a range of extended-stay hotels and serviced apartments worldwide.
Conclusion
Overall, location-independent entrepreneurs and travelers have many options when it comes to finding affordable accommodation for an extended stay. While hotels can be expensive, vacation rentals, house sitting, coliving spaces, hostels, subletting, work for accommodation, and extended-stay hotels and serviced apartments offer more affordable options.
By carefully considering their preferences, budget, and travel plans, individuals can find the perfect accommodation solution that meets their needs. Whether it’s a homely vacation rental, a social coliving space, or a work for accommodation, location-independent entrepreneurs and travelers can ensure that they have a comfortable and cost-effective base for exploring new destinations and working remotely.