Despite its proximity to popular budget travel destinations like the Philippines, Vietnam, and mainland China, Hong Kong is often overlooked by budget backpackers. This is mainly because Hong Kong is relatively expensive compared to other Asian cities and can quickly deplete a backpacker’s travel budget.
Hospitality Exchange Websites
When it comes to finding accommodation, travellers have several options available. Some popular choices include using hospitality sites like Couchsurfing, Ubelong, Hospitality Club, or AirBnB. However, many backpackers prefer staying in hostels as it allows them to connect with fellow travellers or have some personal time. For those planning a trip to Hong Kong, here is a list of the best value-for-money hostels to consider.
The cheapest hostels in the best locations
Yes Inn
Yes Inn is a conveniently located accommodation option in Hong Kong. With branches in Fortress Hill and Causeway Bay, it offers clean dormitories and private rooms. Guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities during their stay. Both Fortress Hill and Causeway Bay are situated on Hong Kong Island and are within walking distance of Yes Inn. Additionally, the Fortress Hill and Causeway Bay MTR Stations are nearby, making it easy for guests to explore the city. It takes only 10 minutes by metro to reach Central, where many popular tourist attractions like The Peak Tram, Zoo, Gardens, Star Ferry, and connections to Kowloon can be accessed effortlessly.
The Causeway Bay location offers mixed-gender dorm beds at a rate of $22 USD, while the Fortress Hill location has dorm beds starting from $16 USD. Private rooms are available starting from $25 per person. If you’re interested in monthly room rentals with all bills included, you can find more information on the website.
Yes Inn Hostel website: http://www.yesinn.com/
Check Inn Hong Kong Hostel
The Check Inn Hostel is situated in Wan Chai, specifically on Hennessy Road, which is a vibrant and captivating neighborhood adjacent to Central on Hong Kong Island. This prime location provides easy access to all the major attractions in the city. The hostel provides a variety of accommodation options including mixed dorms and private rooms. Guests can take advantage of the available computers, free WiFi, and lockers. Additionally, the area surrounding the hostel offers a wide selection of supermarkets, restaurants, cafes, and fast food establishments to suit various culinary tastes.
At this accommodation, you can book a 9-bed mixed dorm for as low as $21 USD. They offer various dorm-type options and room sizes to cater to different preferences and budgets. If you prefer more privacy, private rooms are also available starting at approximately $51 USD.
In Hong Kong, there are two budget hostels that offer clean beds, proximity to attractions, excellent facilities, convenient access to public transport, and opportunities to connect with fellow travellers. If you’ve recently travelled from the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, or Mainland China, you may be accustomed to staying in very affordable hostels, even if they lack certain amenities or a prime location. However, if saving money is a priority for you, these two hostels in Hong Kong might be worth considering.
Super budget guesthouses and dorms
Here are some super-budget accommodation options.
Chungking Mansions
The Chungking Mansions is a conveniently located building in Hong Kong, situated in Kowloon on Nathan Road in Mong Kok. It offers easy access to various attractions, including shopping areas, night markets, restaurants, and the MTR Station. This central location allows visitors to be right in the heart of the action and enjoy the convenience of being within walking distance to major points of interest.
The Chung King Mansions is a complex of buildings that includes more than 80 small guesthouses, dormitories, restaurants, snack stalls, and clothing stores. Additionally, there are money changers available, offering competitive exchange rates both within the complex and in the surrounding streets.
If you have experience travelling in Asia and are comfortable with basic accommodations, such as hostels with simple rooms and older furnishings, you may find a short stay at one of the numerous available hostels to be suitable for your needs.
Some of the hostels and guest houses are quite small and run on a private basis with no means for online booking, but with so many rooms and guesthouses located in the Chung King Mansions, there is no problem in regards to availability.
To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Chungking Mansions, you can visit their official website: www.chungking-mansions.hk
One option is to browse through the inventory of hostels and guesthouses located within the mansions. You will find accompanying photos and contact information, including email addresses and phone numbers, for select establishments.
www.chungking-mansions.hk/BlockA.htm
www.chungking-mansions.hk/BlockD.htm
Free Campsites
In Hong Kong, there are numerous free camping sites available for outdoor enthusiasts. These sites offer convenient amenities such as toilet and change rooms, rubbish disposal, and barbecue facilities. They are located on beach foreshores as well as within National Parks, providing visitors with a range of scenic options to choose from.
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Departments’ website provides a comprehensive list of 41 campsites available in Hong Kong. http://www.afcd.gov.hk/english/country/cou_vis/cou_vis_cam/cou_vis_cam_cam/cou_vis_cam_cam.html
The website provides comprehensive information about the campsite, including details about its facilities, maps, and clear directions on how to reach it using public transportation.
Pui O, Lantau Island
Lantau Island, situated off the east coast of Hong Kong Island, is my recommended choice for free campsites. It offers convenient access through frequent ferry services, the MRT Tung Chung Line, and the Airport line, making it an affordable and easily reachable destination. The Pui O campsite is particularly favoured by locals and allows campers to set up their own sites. Remember to bring all necessary equipment, food, and snacks, but don’t worry as there are a few convenience stores and a restaurant located nearby for added convenience.
Lantau Island offers a range of amenities including toilets, changing rooms, barbecues, and bins, ensuring convenience for visitors. Its stunning beauty is enhanced by numerous walking tracks, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the island is home to well-known attractions such as Po Lin Monastery, Disneyland, and the Big Buddha. Being in close proximity to the airport and free of charge, Lantau Island is an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers. However, it is important to consider the season when planning a trip to Hong Kong. The winter months (November to February) can be quite cold, while the monsoon season can pose a risk of flooding, potentially affecting campsites.
This post provides helpful information for budget travellers and backpackers who are considering visiting Hong Kong. If you’re looking for more details on the top tourist attractions and tips on navigating the city using public transportation, be sure to check out the Hong Kong section.
