Budget/Backpacker Travel Guide: Suva

Accommodation

$15-35 per night

Dorm beds in backpacker hostels, budget guesthouses, or basic private rooms with shared facilities

Food & Dining

$12-25 per day

Local markets, street food stalls, Indian curry houses, Chinese takeaways, and self-catering from supermarkets

Transportation

$3-8 per day

Public buses, walking, occasional shared taxis for longer distances

Activities

$5-20 per day

Free walking around city, public parks, beaches, occasional museum entry or local cultural site

Eat at local Indian and Chinese restaurants instead of hotel dining rooms - typically 60-80% cheaper with authentic flavors

Use public buses for city transport instead of taxis - saves approximately 70-85% on transportation costs

Shop at municipal markets for fresh produce and local snacks rather than tourist-oriented shops - usually 40-60% less expensive

Book accommodation directly with properties rather than through international booking sites to avoid commission markups of 15-25%

Visit cultural sites and museums on weekdays when possible - some offer reduced admission or special local rates

Take advantage of free activities like walking through Suva's colonial architecture district and visiting public parks and waterfront areas

Relying exclusively on taxis instead of learning the public bus system - can increase daily transport costs by 300-500%

Eating only at hotel restaurants and tourist-focused establishments - typically adds 100-200% to daily food expenses

Booking accommodation in peak season without advance planning - can result in 40-80% higher rates and limited availability

Exchanging money at airports or hotels rather than banks or authorized dealers - usually costs 5-15% more in poor exchange rates