Cape Town accommodation generally doesn’t come all that cheap. The Mother City is a favourite tourist destination and even if you have Dollars or Euro’s in your pocket, an extended stay can get a bit pricy. Luckily for you, the city boasts a diverse array of backpacker lodges to choose from. Have a look and remember, even if you’re not living it up in the lap of luxury you can at least have some fun and meet some fabulous new people (which travelling is kind of all about, really).

Chill & Surf Easy Living Lodge: The name says it all. This easy-going establishment is located in Kommetjie, a section of Cape Town that has remained delightfully rural due to its isolated location. Even in peak season when the rest of Cape Town is bustling to accommodate tourists and Gauteng refugees, Kommetjie is an exceedingly peaceful location. Chill & Surf is located close to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, perfect for hiking, it also facilitates horse riding on the beach. Clean bathrooms, safe parking, outdoor cooking facilities, what more could you ask for?

Green Elephant Backpackers: A bit closer to the action, the Green Elephant is located in Observatory (Obs for short). One of Cape Town’s decidedly bohemian suburbs, Observatory is good for budget- to midrange accommodation and is also a great spot to scout for live music, trendy eateries and a vibrant pub culture. If you have any eco-friendly tendencies, the Green Elephant will be right up your alley. Incredibly environmentally aware, the owners of this establishment take pride in their solar panels, grey water system, extensive recycling and locally sourced produce. Having travelled over 50 countries, the owner knows what backpacking travellers need and it shows.

Cape Town Budget Residence: Another backpackers lodge that doesn’t beat around the bush, Cape Town Budget Residence is precisely what it says it is – affordable. Located just off Kloof Street, this establishment is basically smack bang in the middle of Gardens, a particularly lush portion of the vibrant City Bowl that nestles close to both Table Mountain and Lion’s Head. Populated largely by young professionals and Cape Town’s creative industry, Gardens is a hub of activity, boasting an array of chic restaurants, hotels, boutique shops and swanky apartments. Cape Town Budget Residence offers a pretty sweet deal. Even though their accommodation isn’t pricy at all, visitors get full access to a large, park-like garden, an entertainment room with DSTV (called Cable abroad), a swimming pool and a fully-equipped kitchen. Nice! The owners will also gladly assist visitors in arranging activities like safaris, overland trips, as well as daytrips in and around the Mother City.

SaltyCrax Backpackers/ Surflodge: Another backpackers by the sea, but this time in Table View – a Cape Town suburb that is literally steps away from the ocean (so close in fact, that if you regularly experience tsunami anxiety it probably wouldn’t be the best ide). Clean, neat and tastefully furnished, SaltyCrax is a haven for any water sports enthusiast. Ample wind, waves and sailing locations nearby ensures that everyone from the complete novice to the seasoned yachtsman stays entertained. Other extreme sports options include skydiving, water-skiing, wind surfing and kite surfing. Not that keen on risking your neck? Why not head out to do a spot of antique shopping at the Milnerton market or wine tasting at nearby estates?

As you can see, the Mother City’s backpacker lodges offer something for everyone. The ones mentioned in this article are only the tip of a momentous budget accommodation iceberg, so if nothing struck your fancy, do a bit of Internet browsing. I’m sure you’ll find something that suits both your pocket and your style. That being said, what the heck are you waiting for? Organise your ticket, book your flight and secure your Cape Town accommodation. The Mother City is waiting to be explored!