While the Gold Coast offers a wide array of luxury hotels, you don’t have to spend tons of money just to stay here over the holidays. There are actually a lot of backpackers who spend weeks on end in the Gold Coast and do just fine. All you have to do is be smart about your choices.

The first thing you need to do is to plot out your budget. How much money are you willing to spend for the entire trip and how much of this would you want to allot in your room? Most backpackers spend very little time in their hostels and inns while they’re in the Gold Coast, so it’s alright to book very basic Gold Coast accommodation. If you really want to save up, though, choose a hostel or inn that’s close to the commercial center. It’s usually cheaper to eat out than eat in the hostel or inn.

Next, try to travel in groups. While the prospect of backpacking alone is very tempting, it’s always convenient when you have someone to split the bill with you. If it’s your first time to visit the Gold Coast, maybe you can even sign up in a group package tour. With the transportation in the bag, you won’t have to worry about spending extra money on bus trips or car rentals. Some of these daytrip packages for groups even include lunch.

You should also prioritize comfort and security. Hotels will always try to lure you in with facilities like the sauna, gym, spa, barbecue areas and nice views. While these things are always nice, the backpacker’s principle is to keep things simple and well within the budget. That doesn’t mean that you should compromise your comfort and security, though. Choose the most bang-for-the-buck hostel or inn package you can get at the most credible establishment you can find in the area.

Finally, relax. You don’t really have to keep your itinerary canned. The best thing about backpacking is that you’re free to enjoy the place while you can. You’re not pressured into signing up for activities you don’t really enjoy doing just because you already paid for it. Take your pick, shop around, and spend money only on things you really want to do. Most schoolies who stay here are satisfied just hanging out at the beach with their cold bottle of beer. Of course, if you want to camp out under the stars, that can be arranged too.

For the best deals on Gold Coast accommodation, please view our website. We also have good deals for schoolies who want to stay in luxury hotels.