Cheapest way to stay on Kauai?

[jo552006]

I was wondering what ideas people have for ways to stay in Kauai without spending a lot. I’m going next week and have all the details worked out- car, hotel, flights. However, I recently found out that this upcoming weekend is less booked than I planned and I *could* change my flight to be 5 days early for only $250. I’m interested in the possibility of extra days in Hawaii, but don’t want to spend copious amounts of money for a few extra days.

Some things I’ve thought about: public transportation to Walmart- buy a tent then public transportation to a camping area. If the weather wasn’t thunderstorms EVERY day, id be all for that.

Rental car- the ones big enough to sleep somewhat comfortably cost about the same as a hotel room.

Hostel?

FWIW, I completely realize it costs money to travel, and I’ve already got a great vacation planned. Im just looking for ideas to add some days on the front end (this Friday to Tuesday) without breaking the bank. My current thought is that it likely won’t make sense unless I just get a rental car and hotel room for ~250-300/day which I’m not willing to do.

[GilesMM]

Craigslist shows some short term rooms for rent under $100.

[clarkfan1979]

I was wondering what ideas people have for ways to stay in Kauai without spending a lot. I’m going next week and have all the details worked out- car, hotel, flights. However, I recently found out that this upcoming weekend is less booked than I planned and I *could* change my flight to be 5 days early for only $250. I’m interested in the possibility of extra days in Hawaii, but don’t want to spend copious amounts of money for a few extra days.

Some things I’ve thought about: public transportation to Walmart- buy a tent then public transportation to a camping area. If the weather wasn’t thunderstorms EVERY day, id be all for that.

Rental car- the ones big enough to sleep somewhat comfortably cost about the same as a hotel room.

Hostel?

FWIW, I completely realize it costs money to travel, and I’ve already got a great vacation planned. Im just looking for ideas to add some days on the front end (this Friday to Tuesday) without breaking the bank. My current thought is that it likely won’t make sense unless I just get a rental car and hotel room for ~250-300/day which I’m not willing to do.

"Island Cars" car rental is typically the cheapest for car rental. It's cheaper because most of their inventory of rental cars have scratches & dents. Camping can be tricky with the heavy rainfall in the winter. There are 2 or 3 hostels in Kapaa. Budget hotel near Lihue airport is the "Tip Top Motel". The last time I checked, I think it was $160/night with taxes and fees.

I lived on Kauai full-time from 2015 to 2019. I now live in Colorado, but still manage to spend about 2 months on Kauai every year. Feel free to send me a personal message if you have any questions.