How to Find Cheap Accommodation in Bali: A Comprehensive Guide

Bali, Indonesia, is renowned for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re a backpacker, a digital nomad, or a family on vacation, finding affordable accommodation is key to enjoying all that this tropical paradise has to offer without breaking the bank. In this guide, we’ll explore various strategies and options to help you secure budget-friendly lodging in Bali.

Table of Contents

🌿 Understanding Bali’s Accommodation Landscape

Bali Homestays

Bali offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From luxurious resorts to humble homestays, the island caters to all types of travelers. However, prices can vary significantly depending on the location, season, and type of accommodation.

📍 Popular Areas for Budget Accommodation

Kuta & Legian: Known for their bustling nightlife and proximity to the beach, these areas offer numerous budget hotels and hostels.
Ubud: The cultural heart of Bali, Ubud is home to many affordable guesthouses and yoga retreats.
Canggu: A favorite among digital nomads, Canggu boasts a variety of budget-friendly villas and co-living spaces.
Sanur: A quieter coastal area with a mix of budget hotels and homestays, ideal for families and long-term stays.

💡 Tips to Secure Cheap Accommodation

Tips to Secure Cheap Accommodation

1. Book in Advance

Planning your trip ahead of time can lead to significant savings. Booking accommodations 1-3 months in advance often yields better rates and more availability.

2. Travel During Off-Peak Seasons

Visiting Bali during the shoulder seasons—typically from April to June and September to October—can help you avoid the high-season crowds and inflated prices.

3. Use Price Comparison Websites

Platforms like Agoda, Booking.com, and Airbnb allow you to compare prices across various accommodations, helping you find the best deals.

4. Consider Alternative Accommodation Types

Hostels: Ideal for solo travelers and backpackers, hostels offer dormitory-style rooms at affordable rates.
Guesthouses & Homestays: Staying with locals provides an authentic experience and often comes at a lower cost.
Villas: Renting a villa with friends or family can be cost-effective, especially when the cost is shared.

5. Negotiate Prices

In Bali, especially in local guesthouses and homestays, there’s often room for negotiation. Don’t hesitate to ask for discounts, particularly for longer stays.

🛏️ Recommended Budget Accommodations

Ayu Beach Inn

Here are some budget-friendly accommodations in Bali:

Accommodation Name	Location	Price Range (IDR)	Highlights
Ayu Beach Inn	Kuta	65,000	Pool access, basic amenities
Dua Dara Inn	Kuta	150,000–200,000	Air-conditioned rooms, central location
Bedbunkers	Legian	90,000	Clean dorms, social atmosphere
Kayun Hostel	Legian	190,000	Modern facilities, pool, bar
Inna Bali Heritage Hotel	Denpasar	220,000	Pool, BBQ facilities, central location

*Prices are approximate and subject to change.

🚲 Budget Transportation Tips

Budget Transportation Tips

Getting around Bali on a budget is possible with these transportation options:

Scooter Rentals: Renting a scooter is a popular and affordable way to explore Bali. Prices range from IDR 750,000 to IDR 1,000,000 per month.
Public Buses: The Trans Sarbagita bus service offers a budget-friendly way to travel between major areas in Bali.
Ride-Sharing Apps: Apps like Grab and Gojek provide convenient and cost-effective rides around the island.

🍽️ Eating on a Budget

Warungs

Food in Bali can be both delicious and affordable:

Warungs: Small, family-owned restaurants serve authentic Balinese dishes at low prices. Meals typically cost between IDR 15,000 and IDR 30,000.
Local Markets: Purchasing fresh produce and ingredients from local markets allows you to cook your own meals, saving money in the long run.

🏘️ Consider Monthly Rentals

Rather than booking by the night, look for monthly or even yearly rental options. Many guesthouses, villas, and apartments offer deep discounts for longer stays. You can often negotiate up to 30-50% off the daily rate.

Where to Look:

Facebook Groups: Search for groups like “Bali Housing & Accommodation” or “Canggu Community.”
Local Real Estate Agents: Especially in areas like Ubud or Sanur.
Local Listings: Try noticeboards in cafés and coworking spaces like Dojo Bali or Outpost.

💰 What You Can Expect to Pay (Monthly Rates):

Basic Room or Homestay: IDR 1,500,000 – 3,000,000
Studio Apartment: IDR 2,500,000 – 5,000,000
1-Bedroom Villa: IDR 4,000,000 – 8,000,000
Shared Villa or Co-living Space: IDR 2,500,000 – 5,000,000

📡 Work-Friendly Budget Accommodation

With Bali becoming a hotspot for remote workers and digital nomads, work-friendly accommodation is in demand. You don’t need to stay in expensive coworking resorts to have a good setup.

🔍 What to Look For:

Strong, Reliable Wi-Fi: Check reviews on Booking.com or Agoda for mentions of Wi-Fi quality.
Work Desk or Table: Even small guesthouses are now adding basic work setups.
Quiet Location: Avoid party zones if you need focus hours.

🖥️ Pro Tip: Many budget places are within walking distance to affordable coworking spaces—Ubud and Canggu are especially known for this.

🌇 Local Experiences on a Budget

Cheap accommodation doesn’t mean you miss out on Bali’s magic. Here’s how to make the most of your time while still keeping costs low.

🎨 Free and Low-Cost Activities:

Walk the Campuhan Ridge in Ubud
Visit Local Temples (small donations only)
Explore Local Markets (Ubud, Sukawati)
Attend a Beach Cleanup or Yoga Class Donation-based
Sunset Watching in Tanah Lot or Uluwatu

Many budget homestays and guesthouses also offer cultural workshops like Balinese cooking, traditional dance lessons, or temple tours, either free or at a low cost for guests.

💬 Local Interaction = Priceless Value

One of the most rewarding experiences of staying in budget accommodation—especially homestays—is the connection with locals.

👪 Benefits of Staying with Locals:

Learn the language (even basic Bahasa Indonesia goes a long way)
Get insider recommendations for food, beaches, and sights
Experience real Balinese hospitality and traditions
Support the local economy directly

❌ Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Budget Accommodation

Even seasoned travelers can fall into traps. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

🚫 1. Booking Only Based on Price

→ Look for value, not just the cheapest number. A super-cheap room with bad security or hygiene isn’t worth the savings.

🚫 2. Not Reading Reviews

→ Always check reviews for mentions of cleanliness, location, Wi-Fi, noise, and safety. Use verified platforms.

🚫 3. Not Checking Location

→ A room in a remote village might be cheap—but if you spend extra time and money commuting to town, it’s not a good deal.

🚫 4. Ignoring Hidden Fees

→ Taxes, service fees, or scooter rentals may not be included in the initial price. Always ask.

🚫 5. Not Comparing Platforms

→ Prices can vary between Agoda, Booking.com, Airbnb, and even direct bookings. Compare before paying.

📆 Sample Budget Itinerary (7 Days, Budget Travel)

Here’s a basic example of a 7-day trip to Bali staying on a budget:

Day	Activity	Area	Cost Estimate
1	Arrival + Explore Kuta	Kuta	IDR 200,000 (accom) + food
2	Beach & Local Markets	Kuta/Legian	IDR 100,000
3	Move to Ubud + Campuhan Ridge Walk	Ubud	IDR 250,000
4	Temples + Monkey Forest	Ubud	IDR 150,000
5	Move to Canggu + Sunset	Canggu	IDR 250,000
6	Surfing or Yoga	Canggu	IDR 100,000
7	Depart	Airport	IDR 100,000

✅ Total Estimated Cost (not including flights): ~IDR 1,150,000 – 1,500,000 for a week

🌎 Sustainable & Ethical Budget Travel in Bali

When staying in budget accommodation, it’s easy to be mindful of the impact your stay has on the local community and environment.

✅ Support Family-Owned Businesses

→ Choose homestays or locally run guesthouses instead of big hotel chains.

✅ Say No to Single-Use Plastics

→ Carry a reusable water bottle. Many places now offer refill stations.

✅ Respect Local Culture

→ Dress appropriately when visiting temples and avoid loud partying in quiet villages.

📋 Checklist for Booking Budget Accommodation in Bali

Before you finalize your stay, here’s a checklist to make sure you’re getting the best value for your money and meeting your needs:

✅ Essentials to Check:

🔍 Read at least 10 recent reviews
💬 Contact the host or property to ask questions if unclear
📶 Confirm Wi-Fi strength (ask for speed test screenshots if possible)
🚿 Check if private bathroom is included (especially for hostels)
🌡️ Does the room have A/C or at least a fan?
🧹 Is cleaning included in the price (especially for longer stays)?
🧯 Check safety features: lockable doors, lockers, CCTV
🗺️ Location: Walkable to food, beach, or transportation
🛵 Scooter rental available nearby?
💰 Are there any hidden fees or taxes?
🛏️ What’s the cancellation or refund policy?

🌤️ Best Times to Visit Bali on a Budget

Bali is beautiful year-round, but some months are better for budget travel due to fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices.

Month	Season	Budget Travel Rating	Notes
Jan – Mar	Wet	⭐⭐	Lowest prices, but rainier
Apr – Jun	Shoulder	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Pleasant weather, moderate prices
Jul – Aug	Peak	⭐	High prices, book early
Sep – Oct	Shoulder	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Great weather, fewer crowds
Nov – Dec	Pre-holiday	⭐⭐	Rain increases, prices rise before Christmas

🧳 Pro Tip: If you don’t mind occasional rain showers, traveling in January or February can offer huge savings and more peaceful surroundings.

🛎️ How to Negotiate Your Stay (and When)

Many accommodations in Bali, especially locally run guesthouses and homestays, are open to negotiation, especially if:

You’re staying for 1 week or more
You’re booking in person or directly
You’re traveling during low season
You’re a repeat guest

📞 What to Say:

“Hi, I really love your place and I’m planning to stay for 10 days. Is there a better rate if I book directly with you?”
“I’m a freelancer staying in Bali long-term. Do you have a monthly rate?”
“I saw this place on Agoda for 350,000/night. Would you consider 300,000 if I stay a week?”

Politeness and friendliness go a long way—locals appreciate respectful travelers and are often willing to offer a better deal.

🧭 Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Budget Spots

Sometimes the best way to save money is to get away from the crowds. Here are some less touristy but beautiful areas where accommodation is significantly cheaper:

🌄 Sidemen

Peaceful, surrounded by rice terraces and mountains
Great for yoga, hiking, and village life
Guesthouse prices: IDR 100,000 – 250,000/night

🐠 Amed

Known for diving, snorkeling, and black sand beaches
Relaxed, undeveloped vibe
Beach bungalows for under IDR 200,000/night

🌊 Pemuteran

North Bali gem with coral reefs and laid-back charm
Popular with nature lovers and eco-tourists
Homestays start at IDR 120,000/night

These areas are often missed by first-time visitors but offer authenticity, peace, and incredible value.

🛠️ Tools & Apps to Help You Find the Best Deals

Use the following apps and platforms to make your search easier:

🧭 Accommodation:

Booking.com – Free cancellation, reliable reviews
Agoda – Often has cheaper prices for Southeast Asia
Airbnb – Good for longer stays or private villas
Hostelworld – Best for backpackers and solo travelers

📱 Budget Travel Tools:

Skyscanner / Google Flights – For cheap airfare to Bali
XE Currency – Real-time exchange rates
Trail Wallet / TravelSpend – Budget tracking apps
Grab / Gojek – Ride-hailing apps for cheap local transport
WiFi Map – To find strong internet in your area

📌 Final Recap: Your Bali Budget Accommodation Plan

Here’s a simplified strategy to find great, cheap places to stay in Bali:

Decide Where to Stay: Canggu for surf + remote work, Ubud for culture, Amed/Sidemen for peace
Use Comparison Sites: Agoda, Booking, Hostelworld
Travel in Shoulder Season: April–June or September–October
Negotiate for Discounts: Especially on longer stays
Look Beyond Tourist Areas: Sidemen, Amed, and Pemuteran are excellent
Prioritize Essentials: Wi-Fi, safety, cleanliness
Book Direct If Possible: Save 10–20% by skipping platform fees

🧳 Final Tips for Budget Travelers

Use Local Currency: Paying in Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) can help you avoid unfavorable exchange rates.
Pack Light: Avoid extra baggage fees by packing only essentials.
Stay Flexible: Being open to different accommodation types and locations can lead to unexpected savings.

✈️ Extended Stays & Long-Term Rentals

If you’re planning to stay in Bali for an extended period—whether you’re a digital nomad, remote worker, or someone on a sabbatical—there are specific tips and tricks to save significantly on accommodation.

🎉 In Conclusion

Bali doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, some of the island’s most memorable experiences—sunsets over the ocean, morning yoga in rice fields, home-cooked meals in local warungs—can cost little to nothing.

By following the tips in this guide, you can enjoy the best of Bali without draining your wallet. Whether you’re staying in a vibrant hostel in Canggu, a serene homestay in Ubud, or a coastal cabin in Amed, budget travel in Bali is not just possible—it’s magical.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Finding Cheap Accommodation in Bali

🏨 1. What types of cheap accommodations are available in Bali?

Bali offers a wide variety of affordable stays, including:

Guesthouses (local-run, often with breakfast)
Hostels (ideal for backpackers, dorms/shared rooms)
Homestays (stay with Balinese families, cultural experience)
Budget hotels (basic amenities, sometimes with pool/AC)
Shared villas or co-living spaces (especially in Canggu or Ubud)
Bungalows (found mostly in coastal or rural areas)

Prices can start from as low as IDR 75,000–150,000 per night ($5–$10 USD).

📅 2. When is the cheapest time to visit Bali?

The low season—typically from January to March and October to early December—offers the lowest prices on flights and accommodation. You may get up to 40% off regular room rates. However, it coincides with the rainy season, so prepare for daily showers.

The shoulder seasons (April–June and September) strike a balance between good weather and reasonable prices.

🧾 3. Is it better to book accommodation online or in person?

Both options have pros and cons:

Online booking (Agoda, Booking.com, Airbnb) gives you access to reviews, instant confirmation, and often cancellation options.
In-person booking (especially for long stays) may allow you to negotiate cheaper rates, particularly in guesthouses and homestays.

💡 Pro Tip: Check prices online first, then visit or call the property to ask for a direct booking discount (usually 10–20%).

💸 4. Can I negotiate the price of a room in Bali?

Yes, negotiation is common in Bali, especially in:

Homestays
Guesthouses
Monthly villa or room rentals

For stays longer than a week, you can often negotiate 10–50% off the advertised rate. Politeness, respect, and dealing directly (not through platforms) increase your chances.

🌍 5. Are cheap accommodations safe in Bali?

Generally, yes. Budget accommodations are safe, especially those with many good reviews.

To ensure safety:

Choose places with lockable doors and lockers
Read reviews specifically about location and security
Avoid isolated properties if traveling solo
Confirm if staff are available 24/7

Areas like Ubud, Canggu, and Sanur are known for safety.

🌐 6. Do budget accommodations have reliable Wi-Fi?

Most do, especially in areas frequented by digital nomads (Ubud, Canggu).

Still, Wi-Fi speed varies, so always:

Read guest reviews for mentions of Wi-Fi quality
Message the host to confirm before booking
Ask for a speed test if staying long-term

In general:

Hostels may have weaker connections due to high traffic
Co-living spaces and digital nomad hubs often provide high-speed fiber

🍽️ 7. Are meals included in cheap accommodation stays?

Many homestays and guesthouses include free breakfast (simple meals like pancakes, fruit, or nasi goreng). Hostels sometimes offer communal kitchens instead.

For other meals:

Eat at warungs (local eateries), where meals range from IDR 15,000–40,000 ($1–$3)
Cook yourself if your accommodation provides a kitchen

🚿 8. What amenities can I expect in budget accommodations?

Amenities vary, but here’s what you can typically expect at different budget levels:

Type	Typical Amenities
Guesthouse	Private room, fan or A/C, Wi-Fi, sometimes breakfast
Hostel	Dorm bed, shared bathroom, lockers, common area
Homestay	Shared home, local interaction, private or shared bathroom
Budget hotel	Private room, en-suite bathroom, A/C, Wi-Fi, sometimes a pool

🧳 9. Is it okay to stay in a hostel as a solo traveler in Bali?

Absolutely! Bali is a very solo-traveler-friendly destination.

Benefits of hostels:

Meet other travelers
Join tours, group activities
Affordable rates

Look for hostels with:

High ratings for cleanliness and safety
Female-only dorms if preferred
Social spaces (but not too loud if you value sleep)

🛵 10. How far are budget accommodations from main attractions?

Most budget-friendly areas (Ubud, Canggu, Kuta) are central enough to allow:

Walking distance to cafes, shops, beaches, and yoga centers
Easy access via scooter rentals or ride apps (Grab/Gojek)

💡 Renting a scooter is a cheap way to expand your accommodation options to quieter, more affordable areas just outside town centers.

🧼 11. Are shared bathrooms common in cheap places?

Yes, especially in hostels and very basic homestays. Always check:

Cleanliness reviews
Number of people sharing each bathroom

If you prefer a private bathroom, filter that option on your booking platform. Many guesthouses still offer en-suite rooms under IDR 200,000/night.

📲 12. Can I find cheap stays that allow remote work?

Yes! Many budget-friendly places cater to digital nomads and provide:

Work desks
Reliable Wi-Fi
Quiet settings

In Canggu and Ubud, some even offer coworking spaces on-site or nearby. Look for tags like “remote work-friendly” or “business travel-ready” in listings.

💼 13. Do I need to pay a deposit or full payment upfront?

It depends:

Booking.com/Agoda: Often no prepayment, pay at property
Airbnb: Usually full payment upfront
Direct bookings: May ask for 10–50% deposit via bank transfer or PayPal

Always ask for payment terms and get confirmation receipts.

🌊 14. Can I stay near the beach on a budget?

Yes! Areas like Kuta, Legian, Canggu, Amed, and Sanur have budget stays walking distance from the beach. Expect:

Basic rooms for IDR 150,000–300,000/night
Hostels with pools and surfboard rentals
Beach bungalows in rural areas like Amed from IDR 120,000/night

📦 15. Can I store my luggage if I arrive early or leave late?

Most accommodations—especially hostels and guesthouses—offer free luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures. Just ask at the reception.

✅ Final Tips for First-Time Budget Travelers to Bali

🧼 Always check cleanliness reviews
📶 Confirm internet if working remotely
🏡 Contact host for longer stays and better prices
🗺️ Use maps to understand distance to attractions
📸 Use real photos in reviews, not just promo images
👤 Join Facebook groups for Bali rentals to find hidden deals