The location. The service. The food. Finding a place to stay that ticks all these boxes is easier said than done, especially on a budget.
Bali is an island with countless opportunities such as surfing, visiting temples or hiking. However, as backpackers, we’re forever thinking of ways to save money. Finding cheap accommodation is one way to do that so you can splash out later on that diving trip or expensive restaurant.
Although over tourism is a huge issue in Bali, there are still untouched areas that are definitely worth a visit. Staying in places such as homestays and family run hotels help the locals as the cost-of-living increases.
Below is a list of some of the best hostels in Bali I have stayed at without having to break the bank:
1. Broken Compass
We were immediately greeted with a complimentary orange juice before the tour of the facilities. Swimming pools, a restaurant and diving lessons are just a few to name- no wonder it’s Gili Trawangan’s most popular hostel.
Our coatsal-themed private room was beautifully decorated with shells and glass bottles. Both dorm and private rooms have access to hot showers, drinking water and WIFI.
The following morning, we devoured our complimentary breakfast which was also the perfect time to get talking to other like-minded travellers.
You can book through Hostelworld, Broken Compass Hostel
2. Taman Puspa Homestay
Near Ubud’s centre, Taman Puspa is tucked away so the only neighbours you’ll get are the occasional mosquitos.
Each spacious room is equipped with a private bathroom, free WIFI and air conditioning.
Every morning, I woke up to an authentic Bali breakfast made by the owners. It was fun to try some unusual flavours such as sweet coconut dumplings and definitely represented Balinese hospitality.
Since this is a homestay, the families that own the rooms also live in the bungalows nearby so please be respectful of their family temple and gardens surrounding you. The Mount Batur Sunrise hike is also accessible from here.
You can book through Booking.com Taman Puspa Homestay
3. Jesens Inn II
It’s no secret that Kuta isn’t the most glamourous area in Bali but this 3-star hotel says otherwise. It features an outdoor pool, mini zoo and restaurant with only a short walk from Kuta Beach. Each room has a spacious balcony and en suite. The bed felt like heaven; if I couldn’t see the sea from my room, I’d be inclined to stay in this bed all day!
The reception is open 24 hours so if you need anything at anytime, someone will be there to help.
You can book through Agoda, Jesens Inn II
4. Rumah Askara
Traditional Balinese styled Rumah Askara is a tranquil getaway in North Bali.
Located in Lovina, this homestay is along a quiet road with local restaurants and a trusty 7/11. There is an outdoor pool and sun-lounging area in the gardens.
The host provided information on activities such as swimming with dolphins and snorkelling trips. It included a small, home-cooked breakfast where we were offered a choice of pancakes or eggs which were equally delicious.
The only thing I would say is to search for Rambutan Hotel on a map since Rumah Askara isn’t as recognised.
You can book through Booking.com, Rumah Askara
5. Rebels Point
The beds here are super comfortable since I spent 4 days lying in one. Having caught dengue fever, this 10/10 hostel was unfortunately wasted on me.
The outdoor pool is the centre piece for this bohemian style hostel. Each room has a toilet and outdoor shower. Since being in such a remote, humid area in Jimbaran, the mosquito nets and air conditioning were a life saver.
Being so ill I didn’t venture too far, so the café 50m up the road was perfect and the food was delicious.
You can book through Booking.com, Rebels Point Hostel
6. Les Chalets
Les Chalets’ glamping huts, only 10km from the airport makes the perfect relaxation spot after a long flight.
Each pod has an en suite, balcony, air conditioning and free WIFI as well as access to a shared kitchen.
Conveniently placed near some funky cafes and attractions, you’ll find it difficult to get bored here. We took full advantage of the local massages when in need of a bliss 45 minutes. The host also helped us rent a moped to get into town.
You can book through Agoda, Les Chalets Uluwatu
7. Ari La Casa
In true traveller style, we wanted to book accommodation close to Banjar Nyuh Harbour to avoid walking with our backpacks in the blazing heat.
Only a 2-minute walk away, Ari La Case is a secluded homestay with basic rooms. However, it has everything you need for a couple days and the bed was big enough to fit a family of 4!
Opposite the accommodation was an underrated café. They served beautifully presented smoothie bowls that looked like a work of art and tasted even better.
You can book through Booking.com, Ari La Casa
8. Mandira Surf Stay
Being a beginner surfer is exhausting however, if you stay at Mandira Surf Stay in Canggu, you’ll be in the perfect location to practise at the trendy Batu Bolong surf spot.
Countless cafes, restaurants, boutique shops plus Bali’s most iconic market (Love Anchor) are all nearby.
The clean, spacious rooms all have a balcony with outdoor seating. If the air conditioning isn’t enough to cool you down, there is a quiet outdoor pool to relax in.
You can book through AirBnB, Mandira Surf Stay
9. Gelatik B&B
Surprisingly, I enjoyed the shared dorm rooms at Gelatik B&B. The bunk beds are wooden so no creaking sound every 2 minutes when someone rolled over.
In Seminyak, this hostel offers a complimentary breakfast and you can book a mixed or female only dorm rooms plus private rooms.
There is a swimming pool at Gelatik and a couple beaches within walking distance. Only a 20-minute walk away is Shooters which is a popular bar with games like mini golf plus a shooting range.
You can book through Booking.com, Gelatik Bed And Breakfast
10. Karma Backpacker
Karma Backpacker, located in Uluwatu, runs free shuttle buses from 10am to 5pm to the beaches and Uluwatu Temple. They also have access to rent scooters, surfing lessons and laundry services. The concept of Karma is based on the staff’s experiences as global backpackers.
As well as daily housekeeping and friendly staff, this was one of the most sociable hostels I’ve stayed at. The free dinners in the evening were a great opportunity to talk to other backpackers.
You can book through Hostelworld, Karma Backpacker