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Belize City might not be the capital anymore, but it’s still definitely worth a visit. The place is packed with colonial charm and that laid-back Caribbean vibe we’ve all heard about. With its gorgeous white sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, it’s the perfect spot to chill for a few days.
Trust me… you gonna looove it!
If you’re planning to backpack in Belize City, you’re going to want to know where to stay without blowing your budget. Don’t worry – I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re into hostels or private budget-friendly stays, there are plenty of options that won’t burn a hole in your wallet. You won’t have to compromise on comfort either.
In this post, I’ve pulled together a list of the best budget-friendly places to stay in Belize City. From hostels where you can meet other travelers to cozy hotels, I’ve found some great spots that are light on the ol’ wallet.
Let’s get into it, amigo!
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
The Best Hostels in Belize City
If you’re backpacking Belize, you’ll probably end up in Belize City sooner or later. It’s the state’s biggest city and hosts the largest harbor in Belize. With its amazing location, it attracts quite a few tourists all year round.
The Belize City hostels are perfect for backpackers on a budget, they can enjoy a super comfy bed, and the chance to meet like-minded travelers from all over the world while keeping the costs low.
Travelart Backpackers Hostel – Best Overall Hostel in Belize City
- Dorm (mixed): From $25
- Address: 72 Freetown Road, Belize City, Belize
Travelart Backpackers Hostel has a cracking social vibe, perfect for soaking up the city’s energy. It’s one of the BEST hostels in Belize! I mean the competition isn’t huge… there are only two around. But Travelart Backpackers provides a bloody decent stay for us backpackers. Especially solo travelers looking to make a few new mates.
The staff’s warmth and attention make it stand out, and the location couldn’t be better – smack bang in the center, close to restaurants, supermarkets, and all the essentials. The building is safe and secure, with A/C, fans, and a fresh breeze flowing through the windows to keep you cool.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great location
- Fully equipped kitchen
- Social vibes
The kitchen is a proper gem – spacious, spotless, and fully equipped, alongside filtered drinking water and a pristine, roomy bathroom. Everything feels brand new, from the bedrooms to the common spaces. The lady running the show is a total star, genuinely friendly, and super helpful. A homey and hassle-free spot for your city adventure. It is a fab place to stay in Belize!
The Red Hut Inn – Best Cheap Hostel in Belize City
- Dorm (mixed): From $23
- Private Room: From $70
- Address: 90 Bella Vista, Belize City, Belize
For a budget hostel in Belize City, look no further than the Red Hut Inn. There is a mixture of dormitories and private rooms, so it’s suitable for all budgets. To keep your costs as low as possible, pick some food up at the nearby supermarket and prepare it in the fully equipped kitchen, rather than spending money on restaurants!
I’m going to be completely honest… this Belize City hostel does not meet my usual standards in terms of reviews. If something is below a 7/10 it’s usually thrown completely off my radar and into the abyss. However, considering there are only two in the area I’ve included this one (even though it’s a 6.9…). Just to give you all the available hostel options.
The reasons why people don’t love this hostel are that it’s a bit run down, the blankets are pretty small, they don’t provide free water and it’s not in a convenient location.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Close to the airport
- Safe location
- Fully-equipped kitchen
However, some travelers who stayed seem to love it. It’s in a safe location in Belize and the owners are super friendly, welcoming hosts. The dinner and breakfast provided on-site are delicious and the idrinks are reasonably priced.
Also, if you’re unsure about getting to or from the airport, you’ll be pleased to know this Belize City backpackers hostel offers airport transfers – pick up and drop off. That should take away some of the stress.
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View on OspreyMore EPIC Budget Stays in Belize City
Although there are only a couple of hostels to choose from in Belize City, never fear! There are plenty of other budget-friendly stays available. From guesthouses to budget hotels, there are a mix of options.
So, here are a few more budget options to keep you on your toes…
Sir Angel’s Guesthouse
- Private Room: From $91
- Address: Belize City, Belize District, Belize
When you’re traveling as a digital nomad, sometimes you need a break from hostels. Yes, they’re great for meeting people, but if you need to get your head down and work you could probably do without the distractions.
This guest house is one of the coolest places to stay in Belize City! And essentially for remote workers, there’s a laptop-friendly workspace and a fast, free Wi-Fi connection. Another bonus is that all the essentials are provided for you – meaning that you can keep your suitcase lightweight.
DB Tower Vacation Rental
- Private Room: From $68
- Address: 2497 Chetumal St Belama Phase 2, Belize City, Belize
The owner’s warm and welcoming vibe is what truly sets this place apart. It’s conveniently close to the airport, with a grocery store and ATM just a short walk away. Bonus: there’s a washer and dryer available for guests – for free!
The space is spotless and feels just like home, with a cozy kitchen, comfy living areas, and a well-arranged bathroom. And the hot water? Absolute bliss. After staying at places that couldn’t deliver on this front, this was pure heaven. They’ve nailed the little comforts that make all the difference.
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Hide Yo’ Money!Belize Maya Cabaña
- Private Room: From $55
- Address: 1023 Gabourel Lane, Belize City, Belize
Located close to the tourist hub, this spot offers a budget-friendly stay for Belize City standards. It’s perfectly situated near ferries and bus transport, making it a breeze to get around. The staff are absolute gems – friendly, helpful, and ready to go above and beyond.
The rooms are spacious, spotless, and packed with amenities like a fridge and smart TV, while the private bathrooms are sparkling clean and stocked with towels, soap, and shampoo. The staff’s hospitality shines, ensuring you’re checked in no matter the hour. There is free wi-fi and they’ll even sort out your onward travel and give you a lift to the bus stop. Talk about service!
Adventure Awaits Spacious 2BR Air condition Home 2
- Private Room: From $103
- Address: Belize City, Belize District, Belize
Rachael is easily one of the kindest hosts you’ll find – let alone in Belize City. She’s super responsive and goes out of her way to help, making you feel completely safe and at home on her property.
The unit is private, pretty, and packed with perks. The large TV streams all your favorites, the shower water pressure is spot on, and the beds are wonderfully comfy. The AC in the main bedroom works like a charm. And if you’re smart, you’ll treat yourself to Rachael’s cooking for dinner – it’s an absolute must!
Stylish Apartments near Best Western Hotel
- Private Room: From $91
- Address: 4647 Albert Hoy , Belize City, Belize
These Stylish Apartments are spacious and decked out with everything you need for a comfy stay. The air conditioning works well, the kitchen is well-stocked and the dining area is lovely. There is a courtyard and a porch to hang out on too. They are great, affordable vacation rentals in Belize.
The location is ideal, just a 15-minute drive from the airport. There is a supermarket super close and the area itself is nice and quiet. The host is extremely friendly and professional. The apartments are self-check and the instructions on how to get in are very clear.
Casa De Shangrila
- Private Room: From $70
- Address: Fullers Alley 1, Belize City, Belize
Casa De Shangrila offers basic kitchenettes in rooms and it’s just a 15-minute walk from one of the most important landmarks in town – St John’s Cathedral! Another great plus of staying here is for travelers who have their own transport. Yep, if you’re exploring Belize by car, you’ve got a private parking space here at no extra cost.
These small apartments have everything you need for a comfortable stay but note that they are quite small. The bathroom and kitchen look like they have been renovated and are very nice to use. Casa De Shangrila will have you a stone’s throw from town and the ferry.
No matter what your Belize itinerary, this is a great place to stay.
Private Guest Queen Room in the City
Other than Belize City Backpackers hostels, you can keep your costs down by choosing an Airbnb. This guest queen room is a homestay, which will not only save you money but also give you an authentic experience of Belize City. You’ve got your own bathroom and you’re welcome to the communal areas of the home, including zen gardens, a patio, and a gazebo.
Best of all, it’s in one of the safest neighborhoods in town. For a unique and local experience, go for a run with your host family and their friends at the local football stadium. That’s if you can keep up, of course!
Bagels on the Beach
Last but not least on my list of the best hostels in Belize City is another Airbnb, these units are on the beach at Caye Caulker. If you’re a beach bum, there truly is no better place to stay in Belize City on a budget! There are a few hostels on Caye Caulker if you wanna stay there, too.
In the village, you’ve got restaurants, shops, and everything you could need when it comes to convenience. On-site, you’ve got a swimming pool if heading out into the Carribean sea is a bit nerve-wracking for you! The perfect place to round off the list.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Belize City
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Belize City.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
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FAQs About Hostels in Belize City
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Belize City.
What to Pack for your Belize City Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Belize City?
While there aren’t many hostels in the area, an average dorm can cost $23 per night. Meanwhile, a budget hotel can cost around $30 per stay.
What are the best hostels in Belize City for couples?
The Red Hut Inn has private rooms and a fully equipped kitchen for food preparation, perfect for traveling couples on a budget.
What are the best hostels in Belize City near the airport?
These Stylish Apartments near Best Western Hotel are just a 15-minute drive from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport.
Final Thoughts on Belize City’s Hostels
That’s all from my list of the best hostels in Belize City today, folks! I think you’ll probably agree there’s a lot of choice when it comes to budget stays but less so when it comes to true hostel-style stays. Whether you want to make new friends in a dorm room, get some privacy with the one you love, or wake up literally on the beach, there’s a budget-friendly spot in Belize City for you!
If you’re still unsure, take a deep breath and go with my favorite hostel in Belize City. That’s Travelart Backpackers Hostel. It’s the perfect combination of good value for money, a great location, and a friendly atmosphere.
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Belize for a wealth of info!
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Central America backpacking guide.
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