How to Visit Los Angeles on a Budget
Los Angeles is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, but it's not a place where you need to break the bank to have an amazing trip.
If you want to visit Los Angeles on a budget, we've got some tips for you. Read on for the ultimate guide!
1. Stay in a Budget Hotel
Los Angeles isn’t often a destination for budget travelers but there are plenty of ways to visit this city without breaking the bank. With a bit of planning and pre-planning it is possible to have a fun and rewarding experience in this bustling city whilst still keeping your wallet happy.
The city is known for it’s high-end dining options, luxury boutiques and the famous Rodeo Drive but you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy this stunning city on a budget. It is possible to find accommodation at rock-bottom prices and with a little research and pre-planning it is possible to enjoy the best of Los Angeles on a low budget.
There are plenty of budget hotels in Los Angeles but you can also choose to stay in the more affordable hostels that are scattered throughout the city. These offer a great way to experience the local culture and feel like a true LA resident in your own home away from home.
Another option to consider when staying in a budget hotel is to use Couchsurfing to connect you with locals who have spare rooms to share. These people are often extremely helpful and will be more than willing to show you the best that this beautiful city has to offer at a fraction of the cost.
You can also take advantage of a travel card to save money on attractions and transport when visiting the city. These are available at a number of different price points and can be purchased online before your trip.
You can also enjoy a stay at one of the many beaches in Los Angeles, such as Venice Beach and Santa Monica. Both beaches are free to enter and are within an hour walking distance of each other so you can easily fit them into your itinerary without breaking the bank.
It is impossible to get acquainted with the sights of United States in one day, as well as in a week, but you can see the maximum number of new places with the help of a rented car at one of the country's airports. For example, in Los Angeles you can rent a car from 18 euros per day, in New York - from 19 euros per day.
2. Stay in a Budget AirBnB
Los Angeles is a huge city with lots of different neighborhoods to explore. Some are more touristy than others, but all have something unique to offer.
If you're on a tight budget, consider renting out a private room in an AirBnB. This will be on a property where the owner lives, and you'll get a real taste of what life in a local neighborhood is like.
You may also choose to rent an entire house, which is a great way to get a full LA experience. Here, you'll have a spacious kitchen to cook your own meals, and a living room with lots of space to relax.
Another great way to save money when visiting Los Angeles is to stay in a studio or small apartment. These are cheaper than hotels or other types of rental, and you can enjoy a true Californian experience.
Many of these apartments are located in safe areas of the city, so you can walk around without worry. You'll also have access to transportation to get you around town.
It's also important to make sure that the room or apartment you're staying in is stocked with the basics, such as coffee, tea, toilet paper, towels, and more. This will help you feel more comfortable during your stay and ensure that your guests have the best possible experience.
If you're planning a trip to Los Angeles, you should consider booking your accommodation well ahead of time. You'll also want to check the average prices for your chosen accommodations so you know what to expect. Keep in mind that you'll pay more during peak seasons (June and July, for instance) so it's a good idea to book early.
3. Stay in a Budget B&B
If you’re looking to get the most out of your Los Angeles vacation without breaking the bank, consider staying in a budget B&B. These types of accommodations are often run by small, family-owned businesses, so they tend to be very cozy and comfortable. They’re also a great place to get a feel for the local culture of the city.
There are many different types of budget B&Bs to choose from, so be sure to take your time when choosing which one is right for you. Some are small and intimate, while others can be much bigger and more accommodating to larger groups of travelers.
Another option is a hostel. They’re a fun and affordable way to stay in LA and offer a variety of room types from private rooms to shared beds. They also usually come with a common kitchen and can be very friendly and welcoming.
You can book a room at a variety of places, but my favorite is the Samesun Venice Beach Hostel. It’s located very close to the beach and offers a lot of perks for its guests.
It’s an ideal spot for people who want to be close to the action, but don’t have the budget to pay top dollar for a hotel. It’s also perfect for families, with a variety of room options and an excellent location.
If you’re staying in a hotel, make sure to ask about their COVID-19 policies and protocols to make sure you and your family are safe during your trip. Most of these hotels have a variety of safety features, including security cameras and door locks.
4. Stay in a Budget Guest House
A vacation to Los Angeles is an experience many travelers want to splurge on - but you don't have to. There are plenty of hotels in the city that are geared towards travelers on a budget, so you can get a comfortable stay without breaking the bank.
If you're on a tight budget, consider staying in a guest house instead of a hotel or resort. These are a lot more budget-friendly and offer the same amenities that you'd find in a hotel, including a breakfast package.
These types of accommodations are available in neighborhoods throughout the city, and they're often located within walking distance of attractions and popular restaurants. Some have rooftop pools or other amenities that make them a great option for a weekend getaway in LA.
Other budget options include bed and breakfasts and home rentals. These are a great way to save money on lodging, and they often have extras that you don't normally find in a hotel room, like a full kitchen, free parking, or morning coffee.
Another option is to stay at a private residence or apartment that you can rent through Airbnb. This can be a great option for groups of friends or families, as you can share a home with others and stay in a single room for less than a hotel would cost.
When booking a room, be sure to check whether or not it includes breakfast, which is a must when traveling on a budget. Also, check if the room has a hairdryer or other amenities that can help you save money on travel.
Although public transportation isn't cheap in LA, it can be an efficient way to travel around the city. You can buy a base single-ride ticket or a pass for the entire duration of your trip, and the Metro trip planner will guide you through all of the bus and subway lines.
5. Stay in a Budget Apartment
Los Angeles can be an expensive place to visit, especially if you want to stay in a high-end hotel. Many of the best hotels in Beverly Hills and Santa Monica are highly pricey, so it may be a better idea to opt for an apartment in a less expensive area that is still within walking distance of the city's main attractions.
You can also use the city's extensive public transport system to get around, including buses, trains, and trams with base fares starting at $1.75, and you can even buy a day pass ($7) or a 7-day pass for $20. The Metro trip planner is a great resource for planning your trip and finding the right bus or train route.
Using a car is not always ideal in Los Angeles, as the city's traffic can be extremely frustrating and time-consuming to navigate. However, for those who are comfortable driving a vehicle, it's an excellent option, and will provide you with the freedom to explore areas that aren't covered by public transportation.
If you do decide to drive a car while visiting LA, you should know that you will need to pay for parking, and it can be very expensive to park in certain areas of the city. In addition, traffic can be particularly bad during peak hours.
A good way to avoid this hassle is to choose a hotel that offers free parking and is situated near a public transport station, so you can leave your car in the lobby while you explore the city. The Hollywood Downtowner Inn, for example, is close to the Metro Red Line and offers rooms starting at around $125 per night.