The Ultimate Guide to Budget Accommodation in Bali: Travel More, Spend Less

Bali, the Island of the Gods, is a dream destination for many. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder that travellers from all over the world flock to its shores. But what if you’re travelling on a budget? The great news is that Bali is one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Southeast Asia, and that extends to its accommodation.

Finding fantastic budget accommodation in Bali is not only possible, but it’s also a key part of the experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and spend your money on what truly matters: creating unforgettable memories.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about finding the best affordable accommodation in Bali. We’ll cover what “budget” really means on the island, the best areas to stay, and some top-rated hostels, guesthouses, and cheap hotels.

By the end of this article, you’ll be an expert on where to stay in Bali on a budget, ready to book your trip with confidence.

What “Budget” Means in Bali

One of the first things to understand is that “budget” in Bali doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or cleanliness. The value for money is exceptional. You can find clean, safe, and even stylish accommodation for a fraction of what you’d pay in many other parts of the world. Here’s a breakdown of what you can typically expect to pay for different types of Bali budget hotels and accommodation:

It’s important to note that these prices can fluctuate depending on the season. The high season (July-August and the Christmas/New Year period) will see prices increase, while the low season (October-March) offers the best deals. We’ll delve more into that later.

Best Areas in Bali for Budget Accommodation

Bali is a diverse island, and each area offers a unique experience. Choosing the right location is just as important as choosing the right accommodation. Here are some of the best areas for budget travelers, what makes them special, and what you can expect to pay.

Ubud

Ubud is the cultural heart of Bali, nestled amongst lush rice paddies and steep ravines. It’s the perfect place for those interested in yoga, spirituality, art, and traditional Balinese culture.

While it can be busy, it offers a more relaxed and spiritual atmosphere compared to the coastal party towns.

Best for: Culture vultures, yoga enthusiasts, nature lovers, and digital nomads.

Canggu

Canggu is the epitome of Bali’s hipster scene. It’s a haven for surfers, digital nomads, and foodies, with its endless array of cool cafes, beach bars, and boutique shops. The vibe is laid-back and trendy, with a focus on healthy living and creative pursuits.

Best for: Surfers, digital nomads, young travelers, and food lovers.

Sanur

Sanur offers a more relaxed and mature atmosphere compared to the bustling hubs of Kuta and Seminyak. Its long, golden beach is protected by a reef, making the waters calm and perfect for swimming. It’s a great choice for families and those looking for a peaceful beach getaway without the party scene.

Best for: Families, couples, and travelers seeking a quiet beach escape.

Kuta / Legian

Kuta and its northern neighbor, Legian, are the original tourist hotspots of Bali. Known for their long sandy beaches, vibrant nightlife, and endless shopping opportunities, this area is the place to be if you’re looking to party and socialize. It’s also one of the cheapest areas to stay in Bali.

Best for: Party-goers, backpackers on a tight budget, and first-time visitors.

Uluwatu

Located on the southern tip of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula, Uluwatu is famous for its dramatic cliffs, stunning temples, and world-class surf breaks. The area is more spread out and has a more rugged, natural feel than other parts of Bali. It’s the perfect spot for surfers and those looking for breathtaking views and a more relaxed pace of life.

Best for: Surfers, couples, and travelers seeking dramatic coastal scenery.

Top Budget Accommodation Options in Bali

Now for the fun part! Here are some of the best budget-friendly places to stay in Bali, handpicked for their excellent value, great reviews, and prime locations. I’ve included a mix of hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels to suit every travel style.

1. Tribal Bali (Canggu)

   Location: Canggu/Pererenan

• Typical Nightly Price: From $21 (dorm bed)
• Why it’s good value: Tribal Bali is more than just a hostel; it’s a co-working and social hub. With a massive co-working space, a huge pool, an on-site restaurant and cafe, and a buzzing social scene, it’s the perfect place for digital nomads or anyone looking to connect with other travellers. The facilities are modern and clean, and it’s just a short scooter ride from the heart of Canggu.
• Website: tribalbali.com 
• Check availability: Booking.com | Agoda
  
  

2. The Farm Hostel (Canggu)

• Location: Canggu
• Typical Nightly Price: $21 – $27 (dorm bed)
• Why it’s good value: A legendary spot for solo travellers, The Farm Hostel is known for its incredibly friendly and social atmosphere. With two pools, a lush garden, and a communal kitchen, it’s easy to meet people and make new friends. It’s located right in the heart of Canggu, close to the beach and all the best cafes and bars.
• website:  thefarmhostel.com 
• Check availability: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  
  

3. Bali Bobo Hostel (Jimbaran)

• Location: Jimbaran
• Typical Nightly Price: $13 – $16 (dorm bed), from $33 (private room)
• Why it’s good value: If you’re looking for a cheap and cheerful base to explore the Bukit Peninsula, Bali Bobo is a fantastic choice. It’s a short drive from the airport and close to Uluwatu’s famous surf breaks. The hostel has a pool, a communal kitchen, and gets rave reviews for its clean and comfortable rooms.
• Website: Bali Bobo Hostel 
• Check availability: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  
  

4. In Da Lodge (Ubud)

• Location: Ubud
• Typical Nightly Price: From $7 (dorm bed)
• Why it’s good value: It doesn’t get much cheaper than In Da Lodge, but this hostel still manages to pack a punch. Located in the center of Ubud, it’s within walking distance of all the main attractions. It has a pool, a social atmosphere, and is a great place to meet other backpackers.
• Check availability: Booking.com | Hostelworld
  
  
  

5. Tegal Sari Accommodation (Ubud)

• Location: Ubud
• Typical Nightly Price: From $43 (private room)
• Why it’s good value: Tegal Sari is a long-standing favorite in Ubud, and for good reason. This budget hotel offers beautiful rooms overlooking the rice fields, a tranquil pool, and exceptional service. It feels like a luxury stay for a fraction of the price. It’s a bit of a walk from the center of town, but that’s part of its peaceful charm.
• Website: tegalsari-ubud.com
• Check availability: Booking.com
  
  

6. Kuta / Legian Hostels (e.g., Interconnection Hostel, H-ostel)

• Location: Kuta/Legian
• Typical Nightly Price: $7 – $17 (dorm bed)
  
  

Why it’s good value: Kuta and Legian are packed with cheap hostels that are perfect for party-loving backpackers. Places like Interconnection Hostel and H-ostel offer basic but clean accommodation, a social vibe, and an unbeatable location for hitting the bars and clubs. Many have pools and organize nightly events.


    7. Swastika Bungalows (Sanur)

• Location: Sanur
• Typical Nightly Price: From $50 (private room)
• Why it’s good value: This family-run hotel has been a Sanur institution for decades. It offers traditional Balinese-style bungalows set in a lush garden with three swimming pools. It’s a peaceful oasis in the heart of Sanur, just a short walk from the beach and restaurants. The rooms are clean and comfortable, and the staff are incredibly welcoming.
• Website: swastikabungalow.com 
• Check availability: Booking.com
  
  

8. Kamboja Homestay (Sanur)

• Location: Sanur
• Typical Nightly Price: From $28 (private room)
• Why it’s good value: For a true local experience, you can’t beat a homestay. Kamboja Homestay is a popular choice in Sanur, offering simple but clean rooms with friendly hosts. It’s a great way to experience Balinese hospitality and get insider tips on the best places to eat and explore.
• Check availability: Booking.com
  
  

9. Uluwatu Hostels (e.g., SR Hostel)

• Location: Uluwatu
• Typical Nightly Price: $14 – $26 (dorm bed)
• Why it’s good value: Uluwatu’s hostel scene is growing, with plenty of options for surfers and beach lovers. SR Hostel is a popular choice, with a pool, a social atmosphere, and a location that’s close to some of the best surf breaks. It’s a great place to relax, meet other surfers, and enjoy the stunning scenery of the Bukit Peninsula.
• Check availability:  TripAdvisor
  
  

10. Budget Hotels in Legian (e.g., Nadi Hotel, Loft Legian)

• Location: Legian
• Typical Nightly Price: $21 – $43 (private room)
• Why it’s good value: Legian offers a fantastic selection of modern, clean, and affordable budget hotels. Places like Nadi Hotel and Loft Legian provide comfortable private rooms with A/C, en-suite bathrooms, and often a pool, all for a very reasonable price. They offer a bit more privacy and comfort than a hostel, while still being in the heart of the action.

Hostels vs. Guesthouses vs. Budget Hotels: Which is Right for You?

With so many great budget options, it can be tough to decide which type of accommodation is the best fit. Here’s a quick breakdown of the pros and cons of each to help you choose:

Hostels

Pros:

• Most affordable: The cheapest option, especially for solo travelers.
• Social atmosphere: Easy to meet other travelers and make friends.
• Organized events: Many hostels organize tours, parties, and other social activities.

Cons:

• Lack of privacy: You’ll be sharing your sleeping space and bathroom with other people.
• Can be noisy: Not ideal if you’re a light sleeper.
• Security: While most hostels are safe, you’ll need to be mindful of your belongings.

Guesthouses & Homestays

Pros:

• Authentic experience: A great way to experience local culture and hospitality.
• Good value: Often includes a private room and breakfast for a very reasonable price.
• Local knowledge: Your hosts can provide insider tips and recommendations.

Cons:

• Fewer amenities: May not have a pool or on-site restaurant.
• Can be more basic: Rooms may be simple and have fewer modern conveniences.
• Less social: Can be quieter and less social than hostels.

Budget Hotels

Pros:

• More comfort and privacy: You’ll have your own private room and bathroom.
• More amenities: Often includes a pool, A/C, and an on-site restaurant.
• Good for couples and families: A great option if you’re traveling with others and want more space and privacy.

Cons:

• More expensive: The priciest of the budget options.
• Less authentic: Can feel more generic and less personal than a guesthouse.
• Less social: Can be harder to meet other travelers than in a hostel.

Tips for Saving Money on Accommodation in Bali

Even though Bali is already a budget-friendly destination, there are still plenty of ways to save even more money on your accommodation.

Here are some top tips:

• Book on the right platforms: Websites like Booking.com, Hostelworld, and Agoda are your best friends when it comes to finding the best deals. They have a huge selection of properties and allow you to filter by price and read reviews from other travelers.
  
  
• Travel in the low season: As mentioned earlier, the low season (October-March) is the cheapest time to visit Bali. You can find some incredible deals on accommodation during this time, with prices sometimes dropping to half of what they are in the high season.
  
  
• Book in advance for the high season: If you are traveling during the high season (July-August and Christmas/New Year), it’s essential to book your accommodation well in advance. The best and most affordable places get booked up quickly, so don’t leave it to the last minute.
  
  
• Ask for long-stay discounts: If you’re planning on staying in one place for a week or more, don’t be afraid to ask for a discount. Many guesthouses and even some hotels will offer a reduced rate for longer stays. This is especially common for digital nomads and other long-term travelers.
  
  
• Choose your location wisely: Staying a little bit outside of the main tourist hubs can save you a lot of money. For example, staying in Pererenan instead of Canggu, or in the outskirts of Ubud instead of the town center, can lead to significant savings.

Who Budget Accommodation in Bali Is Best For

While Bali has luxurious options for every type of traveler, budget accommodation is particularly well-suited for certain groups. Here’s who will find the most value in staying in cheap hotels in Bali, hostels, and guesthouses:

• Backpackers and Solo Travelers: For those traveling alone or with a backpack, the social atmosphere of hostels is a huge draw. It’s an incredible way to meet like-minded people, share travel stories, and find companions for adventures. The low cost also allows for longer, more extensive trips around the island.
  
  
• Digital Nomads: With the rise of remote work, Bali has become a major hub for digital nomads. The availability of affordable long-term rentals, coupled with co-working-friendly hostels like Tribal Bali, makes it an ideal place to live and work. The low cost of living allows for a comfortable lifestyle without a hefty price tag.
  
  
• Budget-Conscious Couples: A romantic getaway to Bali doesn’t have to break the bank. Couples can find charming and private guesthouses or budget hotels that offer a romantic setting without the luxury price tag. This leaves more money for romantic dinners, couples’ massages, and other memorable experiences.
  
  
• Long-Stay Visitors: Anyone planning to spend an extended period in Bali will benefit from the abundance of affordable accommodation. Monthly rentals are common and offer excellent value, making it possible to truly immerse yourself in the Balinese way of life.
  
  

Final Thoughts

Traveling to Bali on a budget is not only achievable, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience. By choosing affordable accommodation, you open yourself up to a more authentic and immersive travel experience.

You’ll have the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers, support local families, and spend your hard-earned money on the incredible experiences that Bali has to offer.

So, whether you’re a backpacker looking for a party, a digital nomad in search of a creative community, or a couple seeking a romantic escape, you can rest assured that you’ll find the perfect budget accommodation in Bali to suit your needs. Budget doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or quality in Bali; it simply means traveling smarter.

Ready to book your Bali adventure? Start exploring the amazing budget-friendly options on platforms like Booking.com and Hostelworld, and get ready to experience the magic of the Island of the Gods without breaking the bank.

For more tips and guides on traveling in Bali, be sure to check out our other articles!