Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Bismarck
Experience authentic local culture on a shoestring budget with hostels, street food, and public transport
Daily Budget: $95-195 per day
Complete breakdown of costs for budget/backpacker travel in Bismarck
Accommodation
$45-85 per night
Budget motels, economy chain hotels, and shared accommodations on the outskirts of town
Food & Dining
$25-45 per day
Fast food chains, local diners, gas station meals, and grocery store purchases for self-catering
Transportation
$15-35 per day
Walking, occasional rideshare or taxi for longer distances, rental car for day trips
Activities
$10-30 per day
Free parks and trails, self-guided walking tours, occasional museum or attraction entry
Currency: $ US Dollar
Budget/Backpacker Activities in Bismarck
Curated experiences perfect for your budget/backpacker travel style
Money-Saving Tips
Stay at hotels outside downtown core for typically 25-40% savings on accommodation
Eat lunch at local diners instead of dinner at upscale restaurants for 40-60% food savings
Visit during shoulder seasons for 20-35% lower hotel rates and attraction prices
Use grocery stores for breakfast and snacks, saving typically $15-25 per day on meals
Take advantage of free outdoor activities like walking trails and parks instead of paid attractions
Book accommodation and rental cars well in advance for 15-30% discounts during peak periods
Common Budget Mistakes to Avoid
Staying only in downtown hotels without comparing suburban options that can be 30-50% cheaper
Eating every meal at restaurants instead of mixing in grocery purchases, inflating food costs by 100-150%
Not accounting for North Dakota's seasonal price variations, potentially paying 40% more during peak periods