My buddy in Phoenix talked me out of booking hostels and I'm glad I listened

I always thought hostels were the only way to save money on a trip. But my friend Mike who travels a lot told me to check out budget motels on the edge of town instead. I tried it for a weekend in Phoenix last month. Paid $45 a night at a spot near the highway, got my own room and a real bed. No bunking with strangers or loud people at 2am. Saved about $20 a night compared to the hostel I was eyeing. Has anyone else found better deals skipping hostels?

2 comments

2 Comments

skyler_white1mo ago

Cheaper motels beat hostels every time.

the_derek1mo ago

Yeah but motels have that weird vibe where you're basically paying for the privilege of sleeping next to a parking lot. I've noticed people just want what feels less sketchy, even if hostels actually force you to interact with strangers in a way that builds better travel stories. It's like the whole thing where we pick the familiar bad over the unknown good in every part of life.