Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Antigua and Barbuda
Experience authentic local culture on a shoestring budget with hostels, street food, and public transport
Daily Budget: $55-135 per day
Complete breakdown of costs for budget/backpacker travel in Antigua and Barbuda
Accommodation
$25-60 per night
Budget guesthouses, small local hotels, basic beachside accommodations with shared facilities
Food & Dining
$15-35 per day
Local food stalls, casual Caribbean eateries, self-catering with groceries from local markets
Transportation
$5-15 per day
Public buses between major areas, walking, occasional shared taxis for short distances
Activities
$10-25 per day
Free beaches, hiking trails, occasional snorkeling trips, local cultural sites
Currency: XCD Eastern Caribbean Dollar (though USD widely accepted at 2.7:1 rate)
Budget/Backpacker Activities in Antigua and Barbuda
Curated experiences perfect for your budget/backpacker travel style
Money-Saving Tips
Shop at local supermarkets instead of resort shops - typically 40-60% cheaper for snacks and drinks
Use public buses for inter-town travel instead of taxis - usually 70-85% savings on transportation
Eat at local Caribbean restaurants away from beach areas - generally 30-50% less expensive than tourist zones
Book accommodation during shoulder season for 25-40% lower rates than peak winter months
Join group tours instead of private excursions - typically 50-70% cost reduction per person
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and snorkel gear to avoid resort rental fees of $15-30 per day
Common Budget Mistakes to Avoid
Relying solely on resort or hotel restaurants - typically 100-200% markup compared to local establishments
Taking taxis everywhere instead of using public transport or walking - can increase daily costs by $40-80
Booking tours through hotels without comparing prices - often 25-50% more expensive than direct booking