Has anyone tried planning a last-minute Caribbean trip by combining error fares, local transportation, and hostels instead of resort packages? I keep seeing people say the Caribbean's way too expensive for backpackers, but I started finding bus routes, small guesthouses, and even some local B&Bs that aren’t on major booking sites.
Is it realistic to island-hop on a budget without booking through big tour companies? Which islands are actually the most budget-friendly for DIY travelers? Any tips for getting ferry tickets or local flights at local prices, not tourist markups? If anyone’s done this or has tips on where to start (especially for finding cheap inter-island transport!), I’d love to hear about your experiences!