Backpacking Los Angeles: My Route, Costs & Best Tips

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While LA may have lost a lot of its charm over the past decades, it’s still LA. Artists and actors from all over the world flock here to chase their dreams, which gives the city a special kind of energy.

That being said, while it’s not your typical backpacker destination, LA is a major facet of any Californian foray.

It’s expensive, extremely spread out, and doesn’t quite look like the romanticized version of the city that you see in all your favourite movies. Los Angeles is a city that sprawls.

There isn’t a focal point, so be ready for a fair amount of movement! But if you can stomach that, you’ll be treated to sprawling beaches, hiking, museums, nightlife, super cool neighbourhoods, and some of the best bites in the world due to the evident multiculturalism.

And if you get sick of the city, LA is a great launchpad to many other spots around California. 

My advice: treat it like a collection of towns, and make use of one of the top metro systems you can find on any trip round the USA (which isn’t saying much, but still).

The best way to be in LA is to take things slow. Adjust to the pace, and every time you leave the house, be open to whatever comes your way in one of the most dynamic spots in the country.

What Are The Major Attractions in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles and the surrounding areas would take a long time to thoroughly explore. It’s a massive area, and there’s a ton to see and do. Even so, the very best places to visit in Los Angeles can be narrowed down. 

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss out on during your trip: 

1. Hollywood 

2. Venice Beach 

3. Griffith Observatory 

4. Santa Monica 

5. The Getty Center

6. Sunset Boulevard 

Be prepared for hordes of tourists. The weather is always great in LA so there aren’t really shoulder seasons, but head out early to try and catch these sights with fewer crowds.

How Long Should I Spend in Los Angeles?

If you haven’t caught on by now, LA is huge. It lacks a core, dominant downtown area, which can make the urban sprawl feel overwhelming as attractions are all over the place and the traffic is some of the worst in the world. 

2 days could be enough to just catch the main highlights, but it’ll feel rushed, so you should aim to spend at least 3 days here. If you’re considering a day trip to Malibu and more beach time, then budget for 5 days. 

Another important thing to note is that where you base yourself affects how much you can comfortably see. Staying near coastal areas like Santa Monica will give you a better launchpad for exploring the city.

Having a rough plan of what to do in Los Angeles is the key to a successful visit.

To give you a guideline, I’ve created a three-day Los Angeles itinerary, featuring the best (but also the most mainstream) places to visit in Los Angeles.

Note: For this itinerary, you don’t necessarily need to rent a car, though you would have more freedom if you did. This pertains mostly to Day 2 and 3. The choice is yours.

• Best for: First-time visitors (the classic tourist experience) 
• Pace: moderate to busy (depending on amount of days) 
• Transport: Metro, rideshare, scooters, and optional car 
• Budget level: medium for LA (can get pricey quite quickly!) 
• Main focus: Hollywood, Downtown, beaches, views, Griffith Observatory

Day 1 in Los Angeles: Hollywood and Downtown LA

To start off your trip, you can’t go wrong with knocking out a few classics. 

Check out some of the famous Hollywood Stars’ names set in the sidewalk on the Hollywood Walk of Fame located on the famous Hollywood Boulevard. Pass by the famous Chinese Theater. Avoid the touristy shops selling movie memorabilia.Hollywood is filled with plenty of quirky not-touristy shops to pop into as well including some epic thrift/second-hand shops. 

Next up: China Town. 

China Town isn’t super impressive, though you can buy almost anything there, including fireworks, pocket knives, and every Chinese knick-knack under the sun. This is more of a place to stroll through if you have extra time, not a focal highlight. 

Next, spend the whole afternoon exploring the historic Downtown Los Angeles. Check out the LA Flower Market (in the Fashion District). When the time comes for a snack or an early dinner, definitely hit up the Grand Central Market for your choice of delicious food.

The Bradbury Building is also worth checking out, it was featured in the original Blade Runner (1982). You can also see the Walt Disney Concert Hall nearby, which was designed by Frank Gehry. If you’re up for it and time allows, explore the Arts District and Little Tokyo. I’d suggest wandering around without any intentions and just popping into any galleries or shops that you fancy. 

For the ideal end of your day, head to Griffith Observatory (get there early!) to catch the sunset over the Hollywood Hills and the skyscrapers of Los Angeles. It’s definitely easier to get to Griffith by taking an Uber or if you have access to a car, but getting there is still possible with public transit. 

After dinner, you can hit the town in search of a few frosty micro-brews, or just turn in early and save energy for tomorrow. If you are staying in Hollywood again, there are dozens of fun bars. Ask your friendly hostel staff which bars are best in your area.

Day 2 in Los Angeles: Venice Beach and Santa Monica

Day two begins with an early (or maybe slightly slow) morning, depending on how your night went.

If you got your own wheels sorted, you’re good to go. Hit the freeway in the direction of Santa Monica, and stop at The Getty Center for a bit of free entertainment before your beach day. 

Next, head to Venice Beach. There is enough to keep you thoroughly entertained all day. You can rent a bike and cruise the boardwalk. Check out the locals at the famous skatepark, and don’t forget about Muscle Beach! You can also check out the canals for a cool contrast.

Venice is a great place to do some people watching and to just soak in the atmosphere. Beach days are also one of the best ways to enjoy LA on a budget. 

If it were me, I would probably stay in Venice for the night, but if you have a car, consider heading up the road to Santa Monica. 

Santa Monica is a bit cleaner, more upscale, and much less festival-like. Think of it as the cousin with a little bit more money. It’s your classic postcard LA. 

Be sure to check out the Third Street Promenade. The boardwalk area is nice enough and the Santa Monica Pier is the classic place to watch the sun go down as the surfers catch their final waves for the day.

Day 3 in Los Angeles: Universal Studios and Hollywood Views

Let’s start off your last day in L.A. with a trip to one of the most iconic theme parks in the country: Universal Studios. Hop on some of the thrilling rides or check out the working movie studio, the choice is yours. Fair warning: it’s great, but it’s expensive, so this would be your main paid activity for the trip. 

If you don’t feel like shelling out the cash for Universal Studios, there are tons of other things you can do: the classic Hollywood Sign hike, The Broad Art Museum, The Getty Villa which is absolutely stunning, or even a cheeky Malibu beach day if you didn’t get your fill at Venice Beach. 

Depending on when you’re visiting, The Hollywood Bowl is a famous outdoor amphitheatre that you could visit in the evening if there are any shows playing.

Spending More Time in LA?

Los Angeles County is HUGE, so if you have more time to spare, there’s a ton more to keep you busy in and around the city. While I definitely think you should take the time to check out the top L.A. attractions, Los Angeles has a lot more to offer than the just Hollywood Sign.

From some of the best hikes in California to unique museums you won’t quite find anywhere else, L.A and its surrounding beach towns can easily fill your schedule for a few weeks. Consider getting off the beaten path a bit in some of these places: 

• ● Hike at Runyon Canyon: Treat yourself to some seriously epic views with this rewarding local hike that’s located out in West Hollywood. 
• ● Shop at the Farmer’s Market: Browse through more than 85 stalls at this popular (and historic) open-air farmer’s market. It’s been open since 1934 and has the coolest items. 
• ● Check out the Walt Disney Concert Hall: For a heft dose of truly iconic architecture, look no further than this shimmering silver-colored concert hall. I doubt you’ve ever seen a building shaped quite like this! Plus, the acoustics inside are fabulous too. 
• ● Explore the California Science Center: Anyone will enjoy this world-class science center, which features immersive exhibits and even boasts an American space shuttle. 
• ● Spend a day on Zuma Beach: Located in nearby Malibu, Zuma Beach is one of the nicest in the area and is ideal for swimming, surfing, or catching some rays. If you’re a little time rich, Airbnbs in Malibu are worth the splurge! 
• ● Walk around Echo Park and Silver Lake: These are trendy, hipster neighbourhoods that give you some of that LA charm. While walking around downtown can be a bit unpleasant due to all the encampments, LA is so diverse that you’d be surprised how different each neighbourhood can be! 

As mentioned earlier, Los Angeles is a place best explored in terms of neighbourhoods. If you have at least 4 to 7 days, these might be for you.

Los Angeles is the kind of city where you could spend a few months exploring and still never experience it all.

Here is my list of the top 10 things to do in Los Angeles to get your ideas flowing…

1. Eat Taquitos at Olvera Street, Downtown Los Angeles:

Located just across from LA Union Station, Olivera Street is where LA as a city began. Now it is an important historic and cultural centre for Latin American communities. Try the Taquitos with green avocado sauce at Cielito Lindo. Word on the street is that they’re pretty darn good.

2. Stargaze the Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory is a great place to catch the sunset, take in views of the Hollywood Sign and hills, and generally gain perspective on the great beast known as Los Angeles. Griffith Park itself, where the observatory is located, is totally worth a visit too.

3. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

This famous theme park is so well known for a reason–it’s the only working movie studio and theme park on Earth! Take a private studio tour to get behind the scenes, or spend the day in the park, which features Harry Potter and Jurassic World.

If you have the extra dough, the VIP Experience can be worth it to skip the lines. Be sure to book tickets ahead of time regardless.

4. Check out Venice Beach

Surf. Sand. Subculture.

That is Venice.

Oh and some of the best people watching anywhere in the USA.

5. Go to an LA Dodgers Baseball Game

If you are coming from overseas, I realize that baseball might be a foreign concept. To see the game in person is to understand more of its cultural importance within LA and the greater USA.

In any case, Dodger Stadium is a great place to spend a summer evening eating salty peanuts and taking in the scene. Be sure to check out the schedule before you go to see if games are on.

6. Indulge at Grand Central Market

Here you can find all of the amazing diversity of LA cuisine represented in one place, for low prices. Heaven. The Grand Central Market is a must-visit if you are exploring Downtown LA.

7. Hike to the Sunken City

In 1929, a landslide caused a neighborhood of fancy homes to crumble into the sea. Ok, the name “Sunken City” makes this place sound more epic than it actually is. 

That said, a hike on the coast in San Pedro to the site of the Sunken City is beautiful. Plus it is cool to see just how powerful nature can be when it decides to reclaim the land. Be cautious while there as rules and safety conditions can vary and change at any time.

8. Wander around Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

See where all your favourite celebrities live (don’t harass anyone) and shop til you drop, or just window shop if you’re like me and on a backpacker’s budget. 

Remember what we were talking about in terms of LA being a bunch of pockets? Seeing the famous 90210 is a great way to see more of LA in a chill and inexpensive way.

9. Go to a Weed Dispensary

Since January 2018, an ever-increasing number of legal marijuana dispensaries have opened for business. If you possess a valid ID and are 21 years of age, you can buy some of the best weed on planet earth in all its various forms. 

It’s that simple. The pot shop is fast becoming a favorite amongst people backpacking in Los Angeles. Public smoking is restricted so be sure to adhere to all local laws.

10. Hike the Trans Catalina Trail

If you have the time to spare, I highly recommend tackling the 37-mile Trans Catalina Trail spanning the island. Staying on Catalina Island is beautiful, and it’s only about 46 miles off the coast of LA. The island is home to wild buffalo, stunning scenery, and plenty of Hollywood history. 

This is a bit of a longer one as you gotta take a boat to Catalina Island; however, if you’re up to it, you’ll be treated to some stunning views throughout your time there. Be sure to check ahead of time if any permits or bookings are required.

If you have the time to spare, I highly recommend tackling the 37-mile Trans Catalina Trail spanning the island.

In the event that a Couchsurf host isn’t available or you want to move around a bit, you are going to need to book one of LA’s top hostels.

They’re not just a great place to meet like-minded travelers, they’re normally a lot more affordable too. If you’re backpacking Los Angeles on a tight budget, this is your go-to.

You can also check out some of the Los Angeles Airbnb listings. You might just be able to score a private room for almost as cheap as a dorm bed, if you’re lucky.

As I mentioned before, you will no doubt be spending your time outside the city center. There are some really cool vacation rentals in Los Angeles that are not downtown.

For those really wanting to travel on the cheap, there are some good motels in LA that don’t dent your budget too badly. You can save some money without foregoing privacy.

The Best Places to Stay in Los Angeles

When choosing where to stay in L.A., you can’t go wrong with any of these fab listings:

FIRST TIME IN LOS ANGELES

FIRST TIME IN LOS ANGELES

Hollywood

Hollywood, California is a top destination for tourists and our recommendation for where to stay in Los Angeles for the first time.

View on Airbnb View on Hostelworld View on Booking.com

ON A BUDGET

ON A BUDGET

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is a fun and funky neighbourhood located on the Pacific Ocean and on of the best places to stay in Los Angeles if money is tight. West of Downtown LA, this neighbourhood epitomizes California cool.

View on Airbnb View on Hostelworld View on Booking.com

NIGHTLIFE

NIGHTLIFE

Downtown LA

Downtown LA is the neighbourhood in the centre of the city. It is a busy metropolis punctuated with high towers, tall buildings, bustling streets, and lively shops.

View on Airbnb View on Hostelworld View on Booking.com

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

COOLEST PLACE TO STAY

West Hollywood

West Hollywood is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in LA. It is one of the most fashionable parts of town known for its high-end boutiques and independent vintage shops.

View on Airbnb View on Hostelworld View on Booking.com

FOR FAMILIES

FOR FAMILIES

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a fabulous neighbourhood located in western LA, and one of the best places to stay in Los Angeles by the beach. It perfectly combines the convenience of a busy city with the laid-back atmosphere of the beach.

View on Airbnb View on Hostelworld View on Booking.com

Every budget traveler backpacking Los Angeles should have an honest and realistic idea of what the associated travel costs are here.

Like most places in a developed Western country, a trip to Los Angeles is going to be more expensive than other parts of the world, but it can still be done if you plan it right. 

Staying in Hollywood is for the most part is going to be way pricier than staying in a less famous area. It’s all about choices. 

Los Angeles is blessed with plenty of cheap or free things to enjoy. There are also 5-star hotels and places to eat in Los Angeles where you can spend a month’s rent before dessert arrives. 

LA ain’t South America. However, with a little preparation and budget savviness, you can backpack Los Angeles on the cheap. 

If you are on an extremely tight budget, it would be possible to visit Los Angeles on as little as $40-$50 a day. This would involve outside forces coming together to help you in some way or another, i.e. utilizing Couchsurfing and friends.

A comfortable budget allowing you to eat well, do things, stay in a hostel, and even rent a car would be more like $125+ a day. The more money you spend, the more you’ll have access to, but you can have a great time in Los Angeles regardless.

A Daily Budget for Los Angeles

Here is what you can expect your average daily backpacking costs to be in Los Angeles. 

Note: These are realistic ranges, not fixed rules. LA spending can swing wildly depending on where you stay, how often you use rideshares, and whether you do paid attractions.

Los Angeles on a Budget – A Few Tips and Tricks

In order to have a successful trip backpacking Los Angeles on the cheap, you will need to be very budget-conscious. Stuff here adds up fast.

One bad choice of where to eat or where to sleep can send your budget into the meat grinder.

• Visit Free Museums!: The Getty, LACMA (free every other Tuesday 11 am- 5 pm), and the Natural History Museum are all free (except for certain dates).
• Eat Mexican Food: Mexican food in Los Angeles is cheap, abundant, and delicious. I am an LA-area native and I miss Mexican food on a weekly basis. You can score a seriously filling and delicious meal for under $10, even less at a taco truck.
• Drink Cheap Beer at the Bar: In many bars, if you order a typical American beer IE Budweiser, Coors, PBR, ETC, you can usually score a pint for about $6. Go for happy hour and 2×1 specials.
• Take the Bus/Public Transportation: I’ll be honest with you: LA is lagging when it comes to public transit, but there is still enough connections to get by. The Metro is great for quickly getting from Downtown LA to Hollywood.
• Hang out at the Beach: Hanging out at the beach is free and besides, the beach is at least half the reason Los Angeles ever became world famous.
• Walk: Walking in Los Angeles does have its limits. Distances can be huge! That said, plan your daily travel route in a way that doesn’t have you doubling back in an Uber or on the metro multiple times. Explore Downtown LA and cities like Hollywood, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica as much as you can on foot.
• Couchsurf: If you can swing it, staying with a local for free is an obvious boon to cutting down your biggest cost, accommodation.
• Pack a travel water bottle and save money every day!

Good news! Southern California and Los Angeles are home to year-round sunshine. I remember wearing shorts and a t-shirt when I’d typically be wearing a parka. However, during the summer, the temperatures can be intense. 

Los Angeles receives a majority of over 40 million annual visitors during the summer months (June- August). Beaches are slammed, and traffic feels worse, though it is probably the same. Temperatures can vary quite a bit depending on if you’re along the coast or further inland, just something to keep in mind. 

Main attractions found throughout the city and around tend to be more crowded in the summer. Winter and summer do have very different vibes in LA. 

The best time to visit Los Angeles is in the spring. Temperatures are mild, the sun is shining, flowers are blooming, and the days are starting to get longer again. The fall is nice too. Summer is doable; just be prepared for crowded beaches and long, sweaty days. 

Avoid August if you can. Temperatures routinely break 100 degrees F and the smog and air pollution hovers over the city in a stagnant, dirty cloud. If you wait until the winter months, a bonus to backpacking Los Angeles then is that it is possible to go skiing or snowboarding in the mountains 2-3 hours from LA. It’s a great warm winter destination.

What to Pack for Los Angeles

You don’t need to pack super heavy when visiting LA. 

In general, prepare for sun and heat. You’ll be spending lots of time outside, so sun protection is essential, as are comfortable shoes. Layering is great as well since evenings can get surprisingly chilly!

Here are a few items I definitely think you should add to your California travel packing list:

Product

Description

Traipse the CIty in Style!

Traipse the CIty in Style!

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

VIEW ON OSPREY VIEW ON REI

Drink from ANYWHERE

Drink from ANYWHERE

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

VIEW ON GRAYL VIEW ON REI

Pics or It Didn’t Happen 😉

Pics or It Didn’t Happen 😉

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

VIEW ON OCLU

Harness the Sun!

Harness the Sun!

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

VIEW ON SOLGAARD

Don’t Annoy Your Dormies

Don’t Annoy Your Dormies

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

VIEW ON REI VIEW ON AMAZON

Generally speaking, Los Angeles is a safe city to travel in. Major landmarks and touristy areas are very safe. There are certain parts of the city with high rates of violent street gangs, drugs, and major crime issues.

Violence is usually not directed towards tourists, but cities and areas like Compton, South Central LA, and Skid Row should either be avoided altogether or at least off-limits at night.

Los Angeles is MUCH safer than it was in the 1980s and 1990s, be sure.

All the same, don’t go wandering into unknown areas, loaded with cash, and your attention diverted towards staring at Google Maps for directions. Keep your wits about you at all times, especially in the city center, in Hollywood at night, and around Skid Row, always.

At night, taking an Uber is usually a safer bet than relying on public transit. Also, if you’re renting a car, be sure to leave everything out of sight.

Backpacking Los Angeles does not need to be a dangerous endeavor. Employ the same travel safety methods that you would in any city in the world and you should be just fine.

Sex, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll in Los Angeles

There’s certainly no shortage of any of the above in L.A., the city thrives on it all. People here love to party, but substances always come with risks. Fentanyl overdoses are a big issue in the city and they have been for years.

Enjoying the city’s legal cannabis scene can be one of the safer ways for travellers wanting that experience. Be careful with edibles as they can be harder to moderate. Note: public smoking is still restricted.

Always keep your wits about you in the City of Angels and remember that the city does attract a very wide variety of people and not all may have good intentions.

Don’t allow yourself to be sucked into a situation you’re not comfortable with, whether it be with a love and sex on the road debacle or a problematic situation with newfound friends.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Los Angeles

Medical care in the US is expensive! It’s a great idea to get insured before visiting, especially when traveling to a major city like Los Angeles.

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!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Entry Requirements into the USA have shifted over the last few years. Changes can be made at any time, so always be sure to check the latest info from the US Government as well as your own.

USA Entry Requirements

Traveling the USA is the easy part, understanding the documentation required to do enter is a little more messy. Let’s start with some good news: Canadians can enter the USA for up to 6 months visa-free. Easy.

Applicants from 42 different countries can enter the United States visa-free for a period of 90 days. They will need to apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) beforehand. Note that an ESTA is not an actual visa for the US, per se (it’s a clearance). It costs $40. All other nationals require an embassy visa and interview.

Each nationality will require a different set of documents to travel to the USA using this process, so be sure to check with your local embassy on what you need. Citizens of the UK, Australia, New Zealand and most EU countries (except Bulgaria, Cyprus and Romania) are among those eligible for ESTAs.

If you are granted an ESTA, which is valid for 2 years, you are not actually guaranteed entry into the USA. Each arrival is assessed on a case-by-case basis – this means that you will be at the mercy of the customs agent every time you travel to the US. You can still only enter for 90 days per visit.

If you’re traveling to the USA for the first time, you may not get a lot of pushback from the customs agent. But if this is your second or third time visiting the US in the course of a single ESTA, you could get grilled. (My Italian girlfriend was banned from entering the States for a period 6 months after she visited 3 times in the course of a year.)

If you are from a country that qualifies for ESTA access, you will lose the right to apply for an ESTA and must get a full visa if you have visited any of the following countries:

Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria or Yemen from March 1st 2011 or later, or Cuba from January 12th 2021 or later.

Be sure to check official sources before you travel in case of any last minute changes or situations.

How to Get Into Los Angeles

Los Angeles is served by one major international airport: Los Angeles International Airport, aka LAX.

Though it is important to keep in mind that there are several other main (some international) airports that should be considered when booking airline tickets.

Just be aware that the cheapest flight isn’t always the best once you factor in transport to and from your accommodation if you’re staying somewhere further away.

These include John Wayne Airport (SNA), Ontario Airport (ONT), and Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), which is formerly known as the Bob Hope Airport.

In my experience, flights in and out of LAX are always the cheapest. If you are traveling to LA in the low season (November, for example) it is possible to find round-trip flights from Europe for as little as $450.

The cheapest way to get from Los Angeles to San Francisco or vice versa is to take the bus which can cost as low as $25-50. You can try to travel by hitchhiking between the two cities, as it is a possibility too, but comes with the associated risks.

FlyAway offers shuttles between LAX and Union Station (in the Los Angeles City Center) seven days a week for $12.75 each way (estimated travel time: 35 mins). Union Station is a key transit hub, especially if you’re considering taking a train.

How to Get Around Los Angeles

Since LA is so spread out, having access to a car is usually ideal, but even then parking can be expensive and annoying and rush hour here is horrendous.

In general, you should group attractions by area to avoid wasting time, money, and energy. If you’re spending a good amount of time in LA, you’ll probably want to end up renting a car to drive around Malibu and the surrounding areas.

A brief look at some of La La Land’s best methods of transportation:

Quick Answer:

• LA Metro:  Primary trains running all around Los Angeles Area. Good for long and short journeys.
• Metro Bus:  Buses serving additional routes close to metro lines.
• Dash: Quick Downtown bus transport.
• Flyaway: Airport shuttle bus – LAX – City Center route is very convenient.
• Uber / Lyft: Ride sharing apps, well, you know what they’re about. Great for short distances.
• Taxi: The original ride hailing service, now on its last breath. Thanks, Uber.

How to Choose the Best Transportation in Los Angeles

The best way to get around whilst backpacking Los Angeles depends on what you plan on doing. Really, I would try to avoid driving at all costs if you plan to stick around the city center and Hollywood.

There is simply no need to rent a car if you spend most of your time in those two places. Within each neighbourhood, walking is your best bet, but don’t expect to casually walk across the whole city.

The traffic in Los Angeles is part of the reason I will never live in Southern California again, so help me God. Driving in LA traffic is stressful and unpleasant, and Los Angeles public transportation leaves much to be desired.

The metro is the best way to get between Los Angeles and Hollywood. A one-way fare is $1.75. Check the latest fares to be in the loop with any changes.

Uber is also a great option for short distances and it is typically cheaper then hailing a cab (sorry guys!).

If you really want to get out and explore the greater Los Angeles area, you will need to rent a car. Having your own wheels is essential for getting to the beach, going on most hikes, and traveling off the beaten path. If you go this route, check out Malibu, Joshua Tree, and Catalina Island. 

Avoid driving during rush hour (7 am – 10 am and 3 pm – 6:30 pm)! Unfortunately, traffic is just part of the backpacking Los Angeles experience. For a tiny car rental without insurance, you can find deals as low as $30/day.

What’s New for a Los Angeles Backpacking Trip?

Unsurprisingly, LA costs a lot more now. Prohibitive Airbnb restrictions have squeezed the already limited tourist accommodation supply, and prices have shot up as a result. 

And in more bad news, Los Angeles feels much more dystopian than before. Years of mismanagement have seen drug abuse and homelessness skyrocket, businesses hammered, leading to many boarded-up shopfronts, and a rougher feel in general, a far cry from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Legal cannabis has been around for some time now, so not much change there. 

Whilst Venice Beach is still a phenomenal place that I could spend weeks in without getting bored, Hollywood Boulevard is one of many spots that shows signs of increasing decay.

Some neighbourhoods have turned around for the better and the food continues to be amazing, but the city can feel a bit rough around the edges.

The US has very strict work policies, so don’t expect to be able to land a proper job in Los Angeles unless you’re a citizen or permanent resident. Be sure to check the latest updates in regard to your visa to determine what you are and are not allowed to do while in the US.

Digital nomad life is possible, though definitely NOT cheap, so be sure you truly understand L.A.’s exorbitant costs of living before moving long term. It’s not typically seen as a hub for digital nomads.

Volunteering opportunities also exist. And if you’re looking to travel long-term on a budget in Los Angeles whilst making a real impact on local communities, look no further than WorldPackers.

WorldPackers is an excellent platform connecting travelers with meaningful volunteer positions throughout the world. In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your room and board are covered.

With the discount code BROKEBACKPACKER, you can sign up and get $10 off!

The nightlife in Los Angeles has something for every traveler. Perhaps no city in the world is better known for its wild and lavish parties than LA. 

Just to be clear, the likelihood of you finding yourself at a legendary Los Angeles party if you are a newly arrived broke backpacker is slim to none. Saying that, I don’t know how you operate, so anything goes I guess. 

No matter what your idea of a good time, you will find it whilst backpacking Los Angeles. On any given night of the week, you are liable to find a live show spanning all genres: punk, techno, hip-hop, reggae, pop, rap, metal, alternative, bluegrass, folk, indie…it is all on the table. 

Same goes for clubbing, if that is your thing. 

Whilst some of the bigger name music venues are not so cheap, there are plenty of hole-in-the-wall clubs, bars, and low-key venues that have reasonable prices. Many might not even have a cover charge. 

The sky is the limit, really. You could find yourself sipping champagne with celebrities and spending more money than you have made in the last two years in a single hour. Or you could be chilling on the beach around a bonfire sipping back a few beers after an afternoon of surfing. 

Venice and Santa Monica are nice spots for a casual drink while Hollywood and West Hollywood (WeHo) are your classic nightlife spots, but they come with a price tag.

You should plan your transport home ahead of time and carpool with your friends using rideshare. 

Whether you enjoy hearing some soulful bluegrass, going nuts at a punk show, or just feel like having a game of pool with your mates at the bar, it shouldn’t be too hard to find what you like here.

Dining in Los Angeles

Now onto one of the best parts about traveling: eating and drinking! Los Angeles is blessed with a very diverse population. Every imaginable nationality has culinary representation in Los Angeles.

If you crave it, you can certainly find it. Mexican food, and Hispanic food in general, for that matter, is the most abundant for obvious reasons. Latin American ethnicities make up a large percentage of the population of LA county and it’s one of the best places in the USA to try Latin cuisine!

Here is a quick run down of the different types of places to eat and drink in Los Angeles:

• Diner/Cafe ($-$$): Diners can be generic franchise stores open 24/7, frying up all things American i.e. bacon and eggs, pancakes, burgers, sandwiches, milkshakes etc. Diners can also be high-end, offering seasonal brunch menus that use local ingredients. These are of course better, though more expensive.
• Food Trucks ($-$$): I love food trucks. Sometimes the tastiest, most authentic taco or Bahn Mi sandwich you will ever have will come from a food truck. Often food trucks are very cheap compared to sit-down places. Try as many as you can! The Avenue 26 taco stand at 26th and Humboldt in Lincoln Heights has the reputation of blowing away the competition. Locals and travelers alike swear by it. Go.
• Fast Food ($): As I said before, I will probably judge you from afar if you eat shit fast-food, though I know that sometimes budget restrictions and/or alcohol call for desperate measures. Do it if you must. One exception to fast food is In-n-Out Burger. Talk to anyone in California and they will tell you they make the best cheap burgers around. It’s true…
• Restaurant ($$-$$$): The whole gauntlet of restaurants can be found in LA. If you love food, try to save money in your budget to eat at least once at a nice-ish spot of your choosing. For the best Thai food in town, try Night Market Song. Worth traveling to.
• Bar/Pub ($-$$): Bars also vary across the board in Los Angeles, but generally speaking they are good places to both socialize and blow your budget. Go to a bar whilst backpacking Los Angeles, but try not to get more than a drink or two if you want to hold onto your money.
• Club ($$$): Clubs are always expensive. They are, well, clubs. People go to them to party and have fun. If going to a club is your idea of a good time, there is no shortage of them in LA. Just be prepared to pay for the pleasure.

LA’s food scene varies depending on which neighbourhood you’re in, so if you’re craving something specific, chances are there’s a certain part of town that has the best of whatever you’re looking for.

Cheap Eats in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has some of the most expensive food in the world, but it also has some killer budget eats that will have you coming back for more.

Thanks to its thriving street cart scene, Los Angeles is actually one of the only places in the US where you can find such quality tastes at low prices.

It’s no secret that LA is one of the most popular places to visit in the world. The city of the rich and famous is as glam as can be, all while boasting some of the best weather in the country and a wide variety of things to do.

No California trip is complete without a few days here, but as this Los Angeles travel guide has shown, exploring this city doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of hikes, museums, hole-in-the-wall-eateries, and even underground tunnels to explore if you just know where to look! 

If you’ve already seen all the big-name attractions and have had your fill of crowds, then here are some cool experiences that most visitors to L.A. don’t even know about:

Hikes in and Around Los Angeles

Los Angeles and the surrounding tangle of concrete, freeways, buildings, and humanity can be quite overwhelming. So where does one go to find a little peace? Let’s dive into some of the best walks and hikes in Los Angeles…

• Runyon Canyon: This park is in West Hollywood, and makes for a great urban escape. Killer views of LA can be gained, and the outer loop hiking trail will definitely wipe you out in the summertime.
• Trans Catalina Trail Hike: If you have 2 or 3 days to spare, this hike traversing Catalina Island is bound to be a highlight of your backpacking Los Angeles experience. Who knew that there are buffalo on an island just off the coast of LA? Well, they’re not exactly native. Humans put them there, but they are still cool. This is one of the best hikes in the USA!
• Cahuenga Peak and The Wisdom Tree: This is an excellent hike that takes you to the Hollywood sign, but without the normal troupe of tourists. Few people know about it because it is a new trail, so enjoy the peace while it lasts.
• Santa Monica Mountains: Once you leave the city behind and head for the coast a whole other world of hiking opportunities awaits. The hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains are quite varied and range from easy jaunts to difficult, steep hot treks.
• Sandstone Canyon: This hike is popular, but for good reason. There is excellent rock climbing and sweet views of the ocean once you get up high enough. If you are going to make the effort to do one day hike whilst you are backpacking Los Angeles, this is the one.
• Los Liones Trail to Parker Mesa: A moderate coastal hike with great views and just enough solitude (during the week at least) to make you forget you’re in LA.
• Malibu Creek State Park: Want to check out a lake, a small river, and do a bit of rock climbing? This is the spot for you.
• Joshua Tree NP: With extra time in LA, it’s worth taking a weekend trip to hike in Joshua Tree National Park, just 3 hours away (which is nothing to Californians). There is plenty of epic hiking (and rock climbing) at Joshua Tree. This is also one of the best places to watch the stars in the US.

Heat and sun exposure are things to consider as tree coverage can be limited and temperatures can soar. Bring tons of water (more than you think you need) and start your hike early in the morning to avoid the day’s peak UV rays.

Since parking can sometimes be limited, getting to trailheads early and/or making reservations are never a bad idea. Also, trails can sometimes be unmarked or dangerous after heavy downpours (they do happen!) so always be prepared and check conditions ahead of time.

Beer and Brewpubs in Los Angeles

Over the last several years, craft beer has gained immense popularity in America and quality brewers have finally come to LA. No trip backpacking Los Angeles is complete without trying a few local cold ones. 

Here is a list of some of the top Los Angeles Breweries/Brew Pubs:

• Los Angeles Ale Works: Hawthorne, food trucks on site.
• Smog City Brewing Company: Long Beach, ranked at the top of the best beer in LA list.
• Brewyard Brewing Company: Glendale, California lager specialists.

LA has a strong craft beer scene so you’ll be able to find some wherever you go. Depending on which day you’re craving a cold one, find one near where you plan to be at the end of the day!

Wine Bars in Los Angeles

Back in the day, Southern California grew a ton of wine grapes. Times have changed and local grape farming is not what it use to be. That said, there are still plenty of good wineries making quality products in Southern California, and of course heaps up north in Napa Valley, Sonoma, Paso Robles, etc.

Here are a few places to drink wine in Los Angeles:

• Tabula Rasa: Hollywood, a hidden gem in the middle of Thai town.
• A.O.C: Los Angeles, amazing, authentic tapas.

As you probably expected, wine bars don’t make for the cheapest night out, but sometimes a nice splurge is worth it.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in Los Angeles

If you are in town for a couple of extra days (or months) there is plenty to keep you busy if you fancy getting off the beaten path, as in, leaving the touristy Hollywood, Santa Monica, Venice, and Beverly Hills hotspots.

Here are some off-the-beaten-path adventures to be found in Los Angeles:

• Check out LA’s lesser-known beaches: El Matador State Beach – This beach in Malibu might just be the best-kept beach secret in the Los Angeles Area. Stunning rock formations dominate the coastline, instead of people. My kind of spot. Abalone Cove Shoreline Park in Palos Verdes and Leo Carrillo State Beach in Malibu are also winners free of human hordes.
• Go to a Music Venue that is not the Hollywood Bowl: Ok so the Hollywood Bowl has hosted some fantastic musical acts, including The Beatles, but there are other places to grab a decent show. There are numerous great music venues, that are definitely worth a visit.
• Go to a Not-So-Famous Museum: There are many. To name a few: The Museum of Broken Relationships, the Museum of Jurassic Technology, and the Historic Native American Southwest Museum.
• Explore the Hidden Tunnels of Los Angeles: Street art, urban decay, and plenty of history make the secret tunnels (former bootlegging hub) a fascinating place to explore. Just be sure to be extra cautious, go with people you know, and double-check what the rules are.

And we’ve now reached the very end of this Los Angeles travel guide! Even though LA is not the easiest place to visit as a backpacker, I hope you now feel much more prepared for your visit to the City of Angels.

It’s expensive, spread out, and can feel frustrating to navigate as a backpacker, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have a great time in one of the most interesting places in the USA. 

If you haven’t realized by now, this city is truly incredible. From your traditional famous activities to off-the-beaten-path hikes and picture-perfect beaches, it’s no wonder that visiting Los Angeles is a dream for many.

There are so many things to do in this city, but be careful with your spending… one night out in Hollywood or Beverly Hills can easily do some serious damage to your wallet. 

Whether you want to walk the streets of the rich and famous or simply lounge on a stunning stretch of sand, Los Angeles has something for everyone. The best experiences in LA aren’t always the ones that cost the most: a cheeky street taco, an unexpected magical sunset, hidden hikes behind the city, and more beaches than you’ll be able to visit. 

So what are you waiting for? Book that ticket, lock in your accommodation, and get ready for a wild ride in one of the most infamous places on Earth! Choose your base with intention, and plan your days out by grouping activities that are near each other. 

LA is at its best when you slow down and stop chasing the Hollywood fantasy after you realize that it’s not exactly the picture-perfect place it’s portrayed as in all the movies.

When you start to explore the real city and see it for how it really is, you’ll start to really understand the city and appreciate what everything it has to offer.