Opinion

Michael Gebicki is Traveller’s expert Tripologist. Each week he tackles the thorny issues in travel as well as answering your questions. Got a question for the Tripologist? Email [email protected]

The Tripologist May 8, 2026 — 5:00am

Given the hullaballoo happening in the world, I’m not going anywhere outside Australia for the rest of this year. One thing that bothers me though, is the high cost of accommodation in Australia. Is there an easy solution?

A. Wallace, Kingsford, NSW

Best bang-for-your-buck views from the YHA Sydney Harbour.

If you want basic but clean, comfortable accommodation at a budget friendly price in some great holiday locations, YHA Australia is my secret source. You don’t have to be a youth, and they’re not exactly hostels.…