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There are numerous options for lodging when one is traveling. A few of the fastest growing trends among youth travelers for finding locations to rest their weary minds include youth hostels, couch surfing and squatting. Let's do a quick run down of what each of these mean and how you can decide which option is the best for you.

Hostels are a cheaper alternative to hotels. Hostels usually just include the basics with a few extras- a bed to sleep in (ranging from single beds to bunks to doubles for couples); a bathroom (which is almost always shared by more than those in your party) and usually you get a television, alarm clock and radio. Most hostels offer self-service kitchens or dining areas and have secure storage available. Many have 24 hour access and are handicap accessible.

Couch surfing is an even cheaper; usually it is free. Couch surfing basically entails exactly what the term sounds like. It is finding couches in the homes of others to sleep on while you travel. There is an entire couch-surfing network that a potential traveler can connect to called Couchsurfing.com. This site will help hosts and guests meet each other and find places to sleep in the city they are visiting or intend to visit.

Squatting is the absolute cheapest way to travel. This is when you occupy abandoned premises. Blankets and pillows are not provided (wink)! Although only the owner of the property of the forgotten property can actually ask you to leave, it is not uncommon for police officers or neighbors to notice your occupancy and threaten your livelihood. Squatters are usually an entirely different group of people, set apart from couch-surfers and hostel-goers by an economic gap. Many of them are the type that you see on the street corner asking for change. But don't let that scare you off- they are an amazing subculture that can definitely enrich your traveling experience.

So, let's review. Hostels are inexpensive and a very safe option. You'll meet good people, be able to bathe and do your laundry and eat there. The couch surfing experience relies upon the graciousness of your host, and you should probably at least come bearing a gift of treat them to a meal. Squatting is absolutely free, adventurous but can get you into a little bit of trouble. Only the traveler can decide which options is the best for him or her. Happy travels!

Learn more about this author, Carri Dillistone.
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