Sometimes, it has to be done

I spent three nights in a pseudo-tent on a swamp in a hippie commune in Byron Bay, Australia. My tent looked more like a war bunker, but boasted a comfortable bed and electricity. It kept out the mosquitoes, had a back flap that opened up onto water, and wild turkeys and water dragons played on the roof all night. I was serenaded to sleep by the sounds of bugs and birds, and awoken up by the same. The situation was amazing until the horrible weekend morning I went to extend my stay and the entire hostel was booked. I had been snubbed for the travelers who like to book online.

Though it is all personal preference, I’m not a person who likes to book anything in advance. I love to live life by the seat of my pants, and roll into new towns with the belief I will find a place to stay. While this is normally the case all over the world, to find a cheap place to stay on the beaten path of the eastern coast of Australia, one must utilize the art of calling in advance.

While I've tried to fight this since I stepped foot down under, a few nights spent in a rental car, or having to actually dole out money for a hotel instead of a hostel has made me realize the error of my ways. Australia is huge tourist destination, and even while traveling in the off season, backpackers know the good spots with the best deals. To stay in the nicer hostels, with the cleaner rooms, funner activities and cheaper prices, it is necessary to take the initiative to call or book online.

While for free spirits this is the worst possible solution, there are some positives. Sites like Hostel World offer good reviews of places to stay, the cheapest beds and also deals for those who book early enough in advance. Changing your travel culture may not be easy, but neither is sleeping in your car and getting a ticket. Make sure you have a bed to crash in before you hit the sand and surf in Australia.

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