When planning a long-term stay, finding affordable monthly rentals can be challenging, especially in popular tourist destinations. Whether you’re a digital nomad, remote worker, or traveler seeking budget-friendly accommodation, understanding how to secure cheap monthly stays can save you hundreds of dollars. This guide will provide insider travel hacks to help you book the best extended-stay deals in 2025.
Why Choose Monthly Stays Over Short-Term Bookings?
Cost Savings: Monthly rentals often have lower nightly rates than short-term stays.
Fewer Hidden Fees: Unlike hotels that charge resort fees, cleaning fees, and Wi-Fi charges (read more on hotel fees), long-term rentals usually include all costs.
Better Amenities: Extended-stay accommodations often include kitchens, laundry facilities, and workspaces, making them ideal for long stays.
Best Platforms to Find Affordable Monthly Rentals
Airbnb Monthly Stays – Many Airbnb hosts offer discounts for long-term bookings. Always check the monthly pricing section.
Furnished Finder – Best for digital nomads and traveling professionals.
VRBO Extended Stays – A great alternative to Airbnb, offering discounts for longer stays.
Local Facebook Groups & Craigslist – Often overlooked but can provide budget-friendly rental options.
Coliving Spaces – Shared accommodations in cities like Bali, Lisbon, and Mexico City cater to remote workers.
➡ Want to learn more about securing the best Airbnb deals? Check out our guide on best travel hacks for cheap stays.
Top Cities for Affordable Monthly Stays in 2025
Bali, Indonesia – Offers budget-friendly co-living spaces with all-inclusive utilities.
Chiang Mai, Thailand – Known for cheap Airbnbs and extended-stay apartments.
Mexico City, Mexico – A top pick for digital nomads, with affordable long-term rentals.
Lisbon, Portugal – Growing in popularity but still has reasonable monthly rental options.
Tbilisi, Georgia – Low cost of living and visa-free stay options make it attractive for long-term travelers.
Best Travel Hacks to Get the Lowest Monthly Stay Rates
Finding the best long-term stay deals requires strategy. Booking in advance—ideally 2–3 months ahead—often results in significantly lower rates. Additionally, many Airbnb and VRBO hosts are open to negotiation, especially for month-long stays, so don’t hesitate to ask for a discount. Another key factor is timing: avoiding peak travel seasons can lead to savings of 30-50%, making it one of the easiest ways to reduce accommodation costs. Some platforms also offer loyalty discounts for returning guests, so it’s worth checking for special deals. Lastly, alternative payment methods like direct bank transfers can sometimes result in lower prices compared to credit card payments.
➡ Want more expert tips? Read our blog on how to avoid hidden hotel fees.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Long-Term Rentals
While extended stays can be cost-effective, there are some risks to be aware of. Always read the fine print to understand cancellation policies and deposit requirements, as some rentals have strict refund rules. It’s also crucial to verify included utilities, as some listings exclude essential services like Wi-Fi, electricity, or water, which could lead to unexpected costs. Another key step is researching the neighborhood to ensure it’s safe and well-connected to public transportation. To avoid scams, request virtual tours before booking—this can help confirm that the listing is legitimate.
➡ Need help with last-minute cancellations? Read our guide on why hotel bookings get canceled and how to avoid it.
Final Thoughts
Finding cheap monthly stays in 2025 requires research, flexibility, and strategic booking. By leveraging long-term discounts, booking off-season, and using negotiation tactics, you can secure an affordable stay in your dream destination.
For more travel tips and budget-friendly accommodation hacks, explore our latest articles on StayAccom.