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Staying in a hostel for the first time: what you need to know

Hostelworld Blog | Posted on November 4, 2022 |

So you’re staying in a hostel for the first time. Bravo! Perhaps you’re a seasoned traveller used to hotels, it’s your first time outside of the country, or maybe you want a social travelling experience. For whatever reason, you’ve decided to forego the traditional hotel route. And you know what? You’ll have the best time. But maybe you’re unsure as to the proper etiquette or general atmosphere of staying in a hostel. We’ve got you covered with some helpful hostel tips so you can #MeetTheWorld!

1. Making friends when staying in a hostel alone

Maya Papaya , Antigua Guatemala

You might think…  You’re only here for a night. And that guy reading your favourite book probably doesn’t want to be bothered.

The reality : Don’t assume anything. Introduce yourself. Suggest lunch or dinner together. Ask them about their travels. I’ve met some of the most interesting people during my stays in hostels. There was that girl who lived in New Zealand and was travelling all over the world for two (TWO!) years, and the guy who just got left at the altar and took all of his wedding money to travel around Europe. Staying in a hostel brings so many people with similar interests together. Chances are, you’ll have a lot in common. I’ve made great friends all over the world, simply by saying, “Hi, I’m Amanda.”

The Hostelworld app is a great way to meet people, with features like Chat, See who’s going and Linkups, which all help you meet people in your hostel and beyond.

If this is too daunting, you can always join a group tour that stays in hostels. Roamies are small-group adventure tours that let you stay in the worlds best hostels. They ease you into the swing of hostel travel, so by the time your trip is done, you won’t be able to stop introducing yourself!

Extra tips:

• Take a chance and put yourself out there, because this is crucial to the hostel experience. You might find a life-long friend (or partner!)
• Introduce yourself to whoever is there, as soon as you walk into your dorm. Then there’s no time for awkward silence!
• See what social events your hostel runs. We’re talking family dinners, pub crawls and yoga classes! It really is that good.

Maya Papaya  is a social hostel in Antigua, Guatemala. They have an onsite bar and plenty of activities like dinner nights for you to meet as many other backpackers as possible!

2. Staying out late

Bodega Chiang Mai Party Hostel , Chiang Mai Thailand

You might think…  You’re away from home. That pub crawl or nightclub looks fun. Everyone will be sound asleep, so who cares, right? You will probably stay out all night anyways.

The reality: Yes, go out. Have fun. But be considerate. Sure, you might have had one to many bevvies, but if you were asleep you probably wouldn’t want some loud, drunk person waking you up. Turn your phone light on to find your bed and try to avoid falling over anything. Being mindful (even when plastered) could save you in the morning!

• If you’re coming home late from a fun night out, avoid turning on the light. Instead use a phone light so you don’t wake everyone up in your dorm!
• If you feel too drunk to reach the top bunk or even to get into your dorm, have a friend or even a staff member help you. We’ve all been there. We get it.
• If you’re planning to have a big night, get your clothes/PJs and a bottle of water ready on your bed for when you get back.

Why not stay in a party hostel with likeminded party animals? Bodega Chiang Mai Party Hostel in Thailand specialises in a chaotic party atmosphere. With a massive legendary pub crawl and an onsite bar, you can unleash your wild side without having to worry about your bunkmates!

3. Staying up late

Galaxy Pod Hostel , Reykjavik Iceland

You might think…  You have headphones. You can whisper to your boyfriend via Skype at 1 a.m. You think you’re being quiet. This is a hostel. People can deal.

The reality: Like passing out on the dorm room floor, this is a great way to make everyone in the room annoyed. Although you’re all adults and can choose your own bedtime, I’ve learned that most hostels have an unspoken “midnight” clause. At midnight, the lights generally go out, and if you do need to stay up and do something, just make sure you’re being considerate. There are usually book lights that can be used for this purpose, but also consider going into the common room. I tend to stay at outdoorsy-adventurous-type hostels, where the majority of people go to bed fairly early and get up fairly early to see the sights. Obviously, this rule may not apply to party hostels.

• Tell your family and friends the time zone you’re in, so you can organise an appropriate time to chat.

If you want to avoid noisy roommates altogether, why not try a pod hostel? They’re growing in popularity and they assure a luxurious and private night’s sleep. Galaxy Pod Hostel in Reykjavik Iceland, offers a stay that’s out of this world, with space themed sleeping pods!

4. Getting up early

Yeah Hostel Barcelona , Barcelona Spain

You might think…  You have a 6 a.m. flight. You need to snooze a few times to feel rested like you do when you’re at home, in your own room. You must pack the morning of, and turn the lights on at 4 a.m. Just for a minute. You have to fit everything into this noisy, plastic bag. It’ll just be a minute. It’s OK, you are being quiet. This is a hostel. People can deal.

The reality:   We’ve all experienced the early flight conundrum. Getting up early is unavoidable. But do your roommates a favour. Pack the night before and try not to turn any overhead lights on – that’s what flashlights and book lights are for. Avoid plastic bags if you can, and make sure you wake up to your alarm the first time. No one needs to hear your “waves” alarm more than once.

• Say your goodbyes and add your new friends on Facebook the night before. No matter how much they like you, they might not love being woken up at 4am…

If you’re the noisy type all day long, look into staying in a private room if your budget can take it. Yeah Hostel Barcelona has stylish private rooms, but their dorms also have curtains so you’re less likely to wake anyone up!

5. Showering in hostels

Jo&Joe Paris , Paris France

You might think…  Hostel showers are probably just like home, you’re sure you can leave your toiletries for the next night. Plus it’s only a short walk back to the dorm, you doubt you’ll need a change of clothes. Showering with sandals is weird. Why should you wear them?

The reality:  You’re sharing bathrooms with a lot of people, so it’s best to be as respectable as you would be at home. Keep your belongings with you and tidy up before you leave. It’s probably best not to wear your towel back to your room as there’s a good chance you’ll run into someone else and might make them uncomfortable. You should always try and wear sandals in the shower just as a general caution. But almost all hostels have top quality cleaning staff!

• Take a waterproof bag to keep your belongings with you while you shower. Some shower cubicles don’t have hooks or a place for you to keep your stuff, so it might get wet!
• Check if the hostel offers free towels when booking. Otherwise, invest in a small micro-fibre towel. It dries really quickly and it’s easy to fit in your backpack!
• Double check: It’s super easy to leave toiletries behind and they might not be there when you get back.

If you’ve never had the pleasure of using a hostel bathroom, you might be in for a surprise. There are some really luxe ones, like at Jo&Joe Paris in the city of love!

6. The kitchens

Selina San Jose , Costa Rica

You might think…  Sweet! A kitchen. You’re going to make a five-course meal and leave all of your dishes in the sink for the maids to clean up.

The reality:  There are no maids. This is not a hotel. You are expected to clean everything. And dry it. And put it back. Please be thorough – no one wants to have to scrub hardened quinoa off a plate! As hostel kitchens are shared, bear in mind the amount of dishes you really need to use. No one likes a pot-hogger. Hostel kitchens are the heart of the hostel, so it’s a great place mingle and share food with new friends!

• Before checking out of the hostel, take a second look in the kitchen to see if you’ve left any food behind. It takes the staff ages to clean out the food on a regular basis. Plus, it’s super wasteful! If you’ve got some food to spare, see if anyone in your dorm wants some freebies, or check for a shared shelf where you can leave it for the next hungry backpacker.
• There are lots of people constantly cooking, so don’t be shy to have a chat and get to know the people you’re staying with!

Boy have hostel kitchens had an upgrade. Forget about the one you had in your student halls, there are some that really ooze style. Selina San Jose’s hostel kitchen has a rustic charm and will have you cooking up a storm!

7. Other people’s stuff

You might think…   You’re drunk, and those muffins in the communal fridge look really good. You doubt they’ll notice if you take one. Oh, that’s a cute dress…

The reality:  If someone leaves their belongings out in the open, leave it. Always. Food is off limits. Belongings strewn on the floor are off limits. I once had a gal, who was super sweet but probably a little too forward, try on my shoes when I was in the shower. That was an awkward situation. As fun as she probably thought she was being, don’t do that. It’s weird. Respect other people’s stuff.

• Lock up your stuff when you’re not in the room – this is probably a given, but even if it’s just for a few minutes, it can deter those nosy types!

8. If you snore…

Nomads Hotel Hostel & Bar , Cancun Mexico

You might think…  You will just sleep on your side. Besides, everyone is probably wearing ear plugs.

The reality:  You probably sound like a freight train coming through the room. The walls are probably shaking. But… you can’t help it. People understand that. So, if you’re unable to book a private room, be sure to let your roommates know. They’ll appreciate the warning. Don’t forget to give them permission to throw a pillow at you if it becomes unbearable!

• Earplugs are really handy for this situation. A lot of hostels keep these at their reception, pass these around to your roommates as party favours!

Tell us your tips for first-timers in the comments… 

9. Staying Safe

ONCE in Cape Town , Cape Town South Africa

You might think… Everyone is super friendly, and this hostel feels more like a home! I’ve got nothing to be worried about.

The reality: This is definitely true – hostels are super friendly! But it’s important to take care, especially if you’re a solo traveller. Keep all your belongings locked away when you’re not using them, and make sure your phone is well charged when going out.

• If something doesn’t feel right, no matter how small, tell a staff member at the hostel as they’ll be equipped to deal with the situation.
• Tell whoever you can when you are heading out at night, and when you expect to be back.
• If you’re a female staying in a hostel for the first time, think about staying in a female-only dorm. Lots of hostels offer this, and it’s a great way to adjust yourself into hostel life.
• Invest in a portable battery charger. These are great when your phone is running low and you need to find your way home!

If you’re a female solo traveller and wary about the hostel experience, try a female only dorm, or even a female only hostel! Hostelle in Amsterdam is somewhere you’ll feel safe and at home, even if it’s your first time.

10. Checking in

Wombats City Hostel Budapest , Budapest Hungary

You might think… The hostel will have my booking on file and I’m sure I can pay for my stay on debit/credit card. I’m arriving in the middle of the night, but I’m sure they have 24hr reception…

The reality: While hostels have your booking on file, its much more convenient if you can show them your booking number. It doesn’t even have to be printed out, the Hostelworld app holds all this info! Some hostels, particularly small ones, take cash only, and if you’re travelling to multiple countries you might not always have the local currency. Plan ahead and take it out at a currency exchange before you arrive if you can, otherwise schedule some time before check-in for this specific task.

There are some hostels that don’t have 24hr reception, so this is something you really need to find out before you plan your trip. They’ll often make you estimate your arrival time so they can organise someone to check you in. With all this, preparation is key!

• Think about getting a travel wallet. They’re the perfect size for holding all the important stuff like boarding passes, passports and booking confirmations. It can really save you some time and stress of having to pull everything out of your backpack when you’re tired and in a rush.
• Make sure you have a driving license or some form of ID with you, as some hostels will ask for this to hold as a deposit during your stay.

11. What to bring

Room007 Chueca Hostel , Madrid Spain

You might think… Well, I’m going for two weeks so I need two weeks’ worth of clothes!

The reality: In hostels you’re in backpacker territory, where only the essentials are allowed! If you’re travelling around multiple places then you definitely don’t have the room for a lot of stuff. Plus, most hostels have a laundry or can recommend one nearby, so detergent is something you should bring!

Useful things to bring when staying in a hostel for the first time:

• Booking confirmation
• Travel wallet with valuables
• Locks (more than one is useful)
• Small amount of clothes
• Earplugs and eye mask
• Toiletries in a waterproof bag
• Microfibre towel
• Washing detergent
• Portable charger

Now that you know some of the things to expect when staying in a hostel for the first time, hopefully these hostel tips can help you to go out and conquer the world! Oh, and yes, those books on the shelf are fair game. You can take them. Just be sure to leave them for someone else at your  next hostel .

Still apprehensive? Once you’ve stayed in hostels you’ll never go back. If you need a helping hand, why not book a Roamies group tour? They combine the BEST hostel stays with amazing adventure travel itineraries – with all the hard work done for you. You’ll never want to leave!

Tell us your tips for first-timers in the comments…

Download the Hostelworld app to start meeting people from the moment you book

Keep reading:

🌟 Hostel love stories: 5 couples who fell in love while travelling

🌟 Hostel life: how I made friends from all over the world and how you can do the same!

🌟 How to solo travel with a bad sense of direction

About the author

Amanda Richardson is a fiction and travel writer based in Los Angeles. She is currently writing her second novel. She is a recent recipient of the 2014 World Nomads Travel Writing Scholarship. When she’s not writing, editing, or drinking wine, she can be found snuggling with her fiancé and her two black cats. You can read more about her writing adventures  here .

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Tips for Staying in Hostels: A First Timer’s Guide in 2023

Some links in this post contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission if you use the links at no extra cost to you! Happy reading 🙂

So you’ve decided to stay in a hostel? This is one of the best ways to meet people if you’re solo travelling and a way to really enjoy your backpacking experience to the fullest.

If you’ve arrived on this page, then chances are you’re very close or have already booked your first backpacking trip. Good for you! Staying in a hostel is your next step, and if you’ve never stayed in one before, it can be daunting!

In the following post, I outline some of my best tips for staying in a hostel for the first time.

👯‍♀️ Need tips for making friends in hostels? I’ve got you covered! Check out my making friends in hostels guide here.

Other posts on the blog:

• Free Cerveza Hostel Review: Lake Atitlan Guatemala
• BEST Hostels In Flores Guatemala For Backpackers
• Making Friends in Hostels: A Complete Guide
• BEST Hostels in Oaxaca for Backpackers! (Guide)

Want to see epic photos and videos from these experiences?

Follow me on Instagram! As we travel, I post everything live on Instagram, so check out my recent highlights and posts. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, drop me a DM!

Tips for Staying in Hostels : A Summary

After nearly 10 years of on-and-off travel, I have my fair share of hostels.  As you’ve probably worked out, staying in a hostel is one of the ‘done’ things when you travel solo for the first time. 

One of the main reasons backpackers stay in hostels is because of how cheap they are. If you’re backpacking to places like Southeast Asia and South America, shared hostel rooms can be as cheap as £5 a night.

Have the confidence to book into a shared dorm room and save money. You’ll then have more money to spend on bucket list experiences whilst you travel.

If you are booking hostels, I highly recommend Hostelworld . They’re trusted by backpackers all over the world!

Booking hostels?

Choosing the right hostel as a backpacker is crucial to how successful your trip will be. Always use Hostelworld.com for the cheapest rates, widest availability and most importantly – honest reviews from other travellers! Click here to view the best hostels for your trip.

Best reasons to stay in a hostel

If you’re umm-ing and ah-ing about whether or not to stay in a hostel , here are 7 reasons to convince you hostels are great when you’re backpacking to new locations.

🤩 You’ll meet more people than if you stay in an Airbnb or hotel. Shared dorms are a great way to socialise and meet new people.

🤩 Most hostels organise travel events. Think bar crawls, day trips, live music nights, walking tours, days out and more. Most hostels will put on events for backpackers and make sure everyone feels involved.

🤩 They’re cheap! Even in continents that are a bit more pricy (Oceania, Europe…), hostels are the cheapest option. Prices range between £5 – £30 a night in most places, and if you look hard enough, you can usually get a great money-saving deal. Save money by staying in hostels!

🤩 You’ll have a kitchen to cook in. Say goodbye to spending all of your travel savings in restaurants, and start stocking up in supermarkets to cook in the hostel kitchen.

🤩 You can stay long-term. Although you can stay long term in some hotels and Airbnbs, it’s going to rack up to a pretty hefty price. Long-term stays in hostels are normal and a lot of digital nomads do it for a few months at a time. 

🤩 Job opportunities. If you’re looking to top up your bank balance as you travel, hostels are great for making links and finding job opportunities. 

🤩 They’re FUN! From BBQs to swimming pools, organised events to being surrounded by like-minded people, hostels are FUN. And you’ll never be alone (unless you want to be).

➡ Book your first hostel now!

Warnings about hostels

But, there are some downsides to staying in hostels. For example, you…

• Won’t have much privacy. Especially in a bigger shared dorm room.
• Your night’s sleep may be disturbed, on numerous occasions (because of a number of things. I’ll let you use your imagination there).
• There’s a possibility that you won’t click with anyone in your room. This is ok! Don’t let it put you off of your hostel journey altogether. Give it a few nights, and if it’s still not working, ask to change rooms.
• If you’re a bit of an introvert (like me), it can get a bit overwhelming at times. Like I said earlier, mix it up. Have a few nights in a hostel, then change to an Airbnb or hotel. Do what feels right for you.

Top 21 tips for Staying in Hostels

Let’s get down to making sure you feel confident about your stay in a hostel. All of these tips have been written because of my prior experience in hostels, and everything is from my own experience!

1. Always carry a padlock

Even if you ‘trust’ everyone in your hostel room, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Carry a padlock with you to ensure you can lock up your valuables every time you leave the room. I use this coded one from Amazon, and I’ve had it for years!

2. Pick the type of dorm based on your personality, needs and wants

Hostel rooms are either mixed, female or male. Whichever you choose is a personal preference. I find female dorms are a bit easier for privacy if you’re staying for a long time.

It’s also down to you to decide how big you want the shared dorm room to be. Hostel-shared dorms usually start at 4 people and can go as big as 20 people in a single room. This can get wild, as you can imagine!

In my opinion, 6-8 beds is best. This gives you a good opportunity to meet other people, but it’s not big enough to get lost in the crowd of people and not make any proper connections. But again, this is a personal preference.

3. Book in advance during peak times

I like booking hostels as I go, but this is one of my best tips for staying in hostels if you’re backpacking during peak times.

Don’t get caught out trying to book your favourite hostel and find it’s fully booked (this has happened to me, and I ended up staying in a hostel where a rat was eating my Oreos). ➡ Book your first hostel now!

4. Bring an eyemask and earplugs

To avoid being woken up in the night by noise or light, bring an eyemask and earplugs. Some backpackers also hang a sheet over their bunk to block out any light.

5. Do your washing up

Hostel kitchen etiquette is a thing. People will notice if you’re not doing things like your washing up or leaving a mess on the counters. Do the right thing, clean up after yourself and leave no trace.

6. Label all of your food in the fridge

One of the worst things about a hostel kitchen is there really isn’t a foolproof way to make sure your food doesn’t get stolen. I’m pretty sure every backpacker has experienced buying food they’re really looking forward to, then finding it’s been stolen.

The best piece of advice I can give you is to label your food. Keep it in a plastic bag, and label it. And don’t forget a date! Some hostels have a labelling policy, and if your food is left without one, they’ll chuck your food away to give someone else room in the fridge.

7. Leave any unwanted foods in the kitchen and label them ‘communal’

Leaving to catch a flight and have a whole jar of peanut butter left? Chances are you’re not taking the peanut butter with you on the plane or your next 13-hour bus journey, so leave it for all to use in the kitchen cupboards. Just label it ‘communal’ so it doesn’t get thrown away by mistake.

8. You’ll have a preference between the top and bottom bunks

And you won’t want to change it after a few tries on both. Both have their pros and cons, but I prefer the bottom. It’s a good way to get some privacy (you can hang a sheet from the top bed over your bunk) and you have somewhere to sit without climbing up a ladder every time.

9. Say hello to your hostel roommates (they’re probably feeling just as nervous as you!)

What do you have to lose by saying hello and introducing yourself? Say hi, get to know your roommates, and who knows, you could be off exploring with them the following day! Just remember, everyone was a newbie to solo/couple/group travel once. You’re not alone, I promise.

10. Invite the new roommate to your group activities

Remember YOU were the new person just a few days ago? If you see someone who’s just checked in, invite them out to lunch or on one of the group activities you’re booked on to. They’ll appreciate it, and you’ll be adding even more people to your friendship group.

11. Use the common areas to meet even more people

Most hostels will have a common area which can be used as an extra area to meet even more people. From swimming pools to jacuzzis to lounges and TV rooms, it’s a great place to step out of the comfort zone of your dorm and meet some other new backpackers.

If you’re still struggling to make new friends , chat with your hostel guide (who can usually be found at reception) and they can book you into some activities.

Check out my guide: Making Friends in Hostels: A Complete Guide if you’re still unsure about talking to people in hostels.

12. Bring flip-flops for the shower

If you’re staying in a shared dorm room, you’ll need to share a bathroom. Chances are, it’s not going to be ultra-clean. Bring flip-flops. You’ll thank me later. These flip- flops are perfect!

13. Buy a travel pillow that you can use in your hostel bed

Hostel sheets and pillows aren’t great, and there’s usually only one. If you invest in a good travel pillow (similar to the ones you use on the plane), you can double it up and use it in your hostel bed. Alternatively, grab a few t-shirts and jumpers and fold them under your pillow to create a higher pillow raise. My favourite travel pillow is this one. You can buy it here!

14. Book hostels with a free breakfast

This is becoming more and more common and is something I really recommend you look out for when booking your hostel. Hostels providing breakfast means you can stock up in the morning and save extra pennies on having a small lunch later in the day!

15. Do not set multiple alarms

You are not going to make any friends if your alarm goes off five times every morning . Or if you leave your alarm running when you’re in the shower (oh my god, the stress of this when I’m trying to sleep!)

If your alarm goes off, be sure to turn the sound down straight away. Consider your fellow backpackers!

16. Don’t turn the main light on at night (or early morning)

Used your phone torch if you are arriving late at night to find your bunk. It’s annoying , but if you’re sharing with others, you can’t be turning the light on at 3AM just for your own personal benefit.

17. If you have an early start, prep the night before

There is nothing more annoying than someone rustling through their bag for 30+ minutes at six in the morning. Don’t be that person! Prep the night before and be ready to leave. And if you’ve accidentally hit the hostel bar instead of packing, do it in the morning quietly!

18. If you need to make a phone call, do it away from your dorm room

Out of respect, take your long phone calls out of the dorm room. Head outside or to a shared common room. Your roommates may want to sleep at any time of day (jet lag, exhaustion etc…) so respect their needs and don’t be speaking loud in your shared dorm.

19. If you’re spraying anything, do it in the bathroom or outside

Another given tip for staying in hostels: don’t spray heavy smells around other people. People have allergies. Coughs. Just keep the spraying to a minimum away from others.

20. Don’t sit on someone else’s bed unless you’ve asked

This is an awkward one if you’re on the top bunk. Wanting to sit down is inevitable, but if you’re looking to make friends, just make sure you ask before you do so.

21. Yes, people are going to have you know what . It’s unavoidable.

In reality, it’s inevitable that people will be sleeping together at night (or during the day) in hostel rooms. Just make sure you feel comfortable with what’s happening in the space you’re in.

Most of the time, it won’t happen when you’re in the room. And some sneaky backpackers use a sheet to hang over their beds to get a bit of privacy. If you walk in and it’s happening in an erm, awkward , place, just cough and let them know you’re there.

But realistically, it’s going to happen. Most backpackers are young, solo and single, so it’s a real thing we have to deal with when staying in hostels. It is also common to book a private room for when these ‘things’ happen.

22. Embrace everyone’s differences

You will meet people from all walks of life in hostels. From gap year students to posh grammar school travellers, farmers, city workers, tradies, solo travellers, couples, families, you name it; you’re going to come across them in hostels.

Embrace it. Enjoy it. And speak to people you wouldn’t normally speak to!

Travel is all about pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and meeting other people. The people you meet won’t all be like you. And for me, that’s part of the fun!

Hostel Packing List

It is essential you have the following items when staying in hostels:

• A padlock : to keep your valuables secure when you leave your hostel room.
• A hanging wash bag: to make sure all your toiletries are kept in one place, and won’t get confused with anyone elses
• Speakers: because, well, who doesn’t love music? Just make sure everyone in your room gets a chance to pick a song! (And no one minds you playing the music)
• A microfibre towel: Not all hostels will provide you with towels for free. Bring your own to save extra ££.
• Earphones: for loud nights and disruptions to your sleep.
• Flip flops: if you’re using shared showers.
• Eyemask: for uninterrupted sleep.
• World travel adapter or an extension lead : so you’re not using more than one plug!
• Your laptop or tablet : for movie nights, of course! 🍿

Tips for staying in hostels: FAQS

1) what should i know before staying in a hostel.

If you’re kind, friendly, and welcoming, you’ll go far in hostels. Be open to meeting people from all walks of life. Be accepting of people you may not normally meet! The majority of the time, the people you meet will be good. But of course, you might meet people you don’t click or gel with. And that’s ok!

Remember to always lock away your valuables (even if you trust your roommates), label your food, be kind and listen to others.

Is staying in a hostel a good idea?

This all depends on the type of person you are and what you are looking for in your travels. If you are a solo traveller, staying in a hostel is one of the best ways to meet other backpackers.

Or if you’re in a couple, you might want to rent a private room in a hostel to still be included in the social events and parties.

Staying in a hostel is cheaper than a hotel and Airbnb, so if you want to stay long-term, a hostel may also be a good choice. Hostels get a bad rep, but they can be comfortable and a great place to stay.

How do you become comfortable in a hostel?

Take a travel pillow with you wherever you go, and make sure your valuables are locked up, even overnight. This will give you peace of mind whilst you’re sleeping.

Make sure you pick a shared dorm size that you are comfortable with, not just the cheapest. Choose a private room if you are unsure (they should still be cheaper than a hotel). Hang a spare sheet from the top bunk over the bottom bunk for some extra privacy whilst you sleep.

How do you survive in a hostel?

You’ll survive in a hostel if you have a positive attitude and want to meet like-minded backpackers. Be kind, don’t steal anyone else’s belongings, share food, be polite and just enjoy it!

You’ll only ‘not survive’ hostels if you’re rude, unsocial, impolite or arrogant. Basic human manners go a long way, especially in your hostel experience!

Are phones allowed in hostels?

Of course! Phones are allowed in hostels. If you find a situation where they’re not, you might want to check where you’ve ended up, because you’re not in the right place.

Are hostels safe?

Yes, and hostels go above and beyond to make sure their hostels are safe. The whole point of hostels is that solo men and women feel comfortable and can stay in different locations cheaply. The majority of hostels have different measures in place to ensure they are safe.

You cannot book and stay at a hostel without showing your ID and filling in multiple forms. Everything is regulated and checked.

You can also ask to change dorm rooms if you feel uncomfortable or uneasy with someone in your room.

Tips for Staying in Hostels: In a Nutshell

So, there you have it. Tips for staying in hostels, prepping you to dive right into sharing a room with strangers.

Just think; if you’re uncomfortable, or you don’t like it, you can leave! There’s not a hard and fast rule stating that all backpackers must stay in hostels. It’s your choice and your travel experience . You do it how you want to.

But, I do recommend hostels . They’ve introduced me to friends all over the world, some of which I still keep in contact with today.

My DMs are always open and I’m more than happy to chat through any hostel or backpacking questions with you! You can contact me on Instagram here .

Happy travelling!

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MEET THE AUTHOR!

Hi! I'm Jennie! As a part-time travel blogger based in London, I'm using my 10+ years of travel expertise to encourage & inspire you to step out of your comfort zone through sustainable, mindful and purposeful travel.

If I'm not writing, I'm either reading, drinking coffee or taking a wild swim (all at the same time if I'm feeling impressive).

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First-Time in a Hostel? 17 Basic & Advanced Tips to have a great Time

Sleeping and staying in hostels can be challenging. Between having to share with people you don't necessarily know, people coming and going at strange hours, and not being in your own home, there are lots of reasons some travelers struggle to get their beauty sleep when they're staying at a hostel in bustling cities like Barcelona or Amsterdam .

But it doesn't have to be that way. There are plenty of ways you can get a solid night's sleep - even if you're sharing a room with fifteen other travelers. Honestly, if you end up in a wonderful place with great people, hostel life is better than real life .

Here are some of our favourite tried-and-true strategies from our Hostelz experience!

Start here : How do Hostels Work? The ins and outs of hostel life

Tips for Staying in Hostels

1. be smart: choose the right room type for you, 2. consider your hostel's location, 3. bring supplies, 4. don't set your expectations too high, 5. pick your bunk wisely, 6. no bar on the top bunk make a barrier.

• 7. Is your room truly awful? Let staff know

8. Sleep at a reasonable time

• 9. Only go to bed once you're really tired

10. Just say NO to the plastic bag rustle

11. keep important stuff within easy access, 12. think twice about turning on the lights, 13. respect quiet hours, 14. put your alarm on vibrate & under your pillow, 15. don't abuse the snooze (button), 16. don't hang out in the dorm when other people are sleeping, 17. no sexy time in the shared rooms, common questions about staying in hostels.

These tips are also important if you are considering working in a hostel during your travels.

If you know you're an incredibly light sleeper, it might be worth your while to consider paying a bit more to have a private room, or maybe one that only has four beds instead of twelve, especially in popular destinations like Rome or Prague . It could be a small investment that ends up being one of the best decisions of your trip.

This is where timing comes in regard to booking. Hostels tend to have less private rooms than shared, so booking last minute could mean you miss out.

We have collected the world's coolest hostels with private rooms here .

How about a few examples?

• Best Hostels in Prague with Private Rooms
• Best Hostels in Rome with Private Rooms
• Best Hostels in Amsterdam with Private Rooms

Here is a guide on when to book hostels – for spontaneous souls and pre-planners.

Before you book a hostel, read their reviews on Hostelz and the major hostel booking sites. This is especially important for popular backpacking destinations like Thailand or Australia .

Read : How to compare hostels with Hostelz.com

There's a ton of information on them, including lots about the location. If you keep seeing that the hostel is near lots of bars, you'll know it's pretty likely to have some sort of noise at night. This is particularly true in party hotspots like Barcelona or Berlin . Similarly, you could end up miles away from the main landmarks and public transport.

So, choose wisely! This is especially important in sprawling cities like London or New York City .

That means an eye mask and earplugs , in this case. They're two small things you can stick in your backpack or suitcase at the last minute, and they can really help you sleep a lot better.

You could also try bringing noise-canceling headphones if noise really bothers you when you're trying to sleep – especially the sound of a snoring neighbor!

Here is our detailed guide to how to pack for a hostel .

We recommend bringing your own little travel, even when the hostel provides towels . It's just handy to have your own, small towel.

Sleeping in a shared room whilst staying in hostels isn't always easy.

Even the quietest, nicest roommates will need to come and go at different times. And while you can get very, very comfy hostel beds, the average hostel bunk isn't going to compare to one at a fancy hotel.

Some travelers do expect hotel-level amenities when they're staying in a hostel. But hostels are generally about basics rather than luxury. Your expectations may end up being surpassed, of course, but don't go in expecting to be pampered.

Read : How to filter for good Hostels

If you already go in with the mindset that things are going to be a bit different, you'll be ahead of the game.

Maybe you'll be able to sleep better on the top bunk, as nobody will be clambering up a ladder by your face to get into their bed. You might feel a bit more privacy up there, too, and it's less likely that people will use top bunks for communal purposes.

Or maybe you'd rather have the bottom bunk, which might have a better chance of being next to outlets to plug your electronics into. You also won't have to deal with trying to climb up into bed in the middle of the night, and you'll be within easier reach of your stuff.

There's no right or wrong answer here – it's all about what you prefer!

Fun : Why Solo Travelers are Superheroes

Most bunk beds have a bar to stop you rolling out in the middle of the night, but every once in a while you'll come across one that doesn't. Roll up a towel or push together some pillows to create a barrier to stop yourself from accidentally falling out of bed.

7. Is your room truly awful? Let staff know!

Whether “truly awful” means your bunk is on the verge of collapsing, there are bugs in the sheets, or your roommates are legitimately making you uncomfortable, it's OK to ask the staff if they can do something about it. You can also ask if there are other rooms available if you get to the hostel and realize you probably should have booked a smaller room.

Keep in mind that the staff might not be able to do much, though!

Hopefully they are following our guide on how to create an irresistible hostel .

One thing not to do – don't switch beds without asking first, particularly if there are assigned bed numbers. It can seem easy just to move over to the next bed, but it can be a bit of a pain for hostel staff to deal with on a paperwork level.

If you're planning on going to sleep at 8 p.m., you might be in for an unwelcome wake-up. Or rather, a lot of unwelcome disturbances.

Depending on which country you're in, 8 p.m. might be right when people are getting in from dinner – or it could be right when people are starting to get ready to go out for their evening meal. For example, in Spain , dinner time tends to be much later than in Germany . Either way, your snoozing will probably be interrupted by people coming in and out of the room.

When staying in hostels, plan your sleep schedule according to the norms of the country you're visiting. This is especially important if you are planning to eat out in restaurants for dinner and lunch in countries like Italy or France , known for their culinary culture. For budget-friendly meal ideas, check out our 9 Top Tips for Cooking in Hostels .

Going to bed before sunset may be a bit too much...

9. Only go to bed once you're exhausted

One way to almost guarantee you fall asleep quickly is by avoiding getting into bed until you're really ready to crash. Try not to attempt to fall asleep if you're only sort of tired. Relax in the common areas or have a low-key stroll, and only go to your bed when you're 100% ready for some sleep.

And now, because we're all about being conscientious travelers, we're also going to include some tips on how you can be a nice guest and avoid waking your roommates up in the middle of the night! This is particularly important in cities known for their nightlife, like Bangkok or Budapest .

Have you ever heard somebody rustling around for their belongings in plastic bags for ages? If you can, pack your stuff in bags that aren't quite as loud.

Maybe put a small bag of must-haves on top of your main suitcase, or keep them in an easily reachable side compartment. This will help you get your stuff faster – and minimize the time you spend making noise that might wake someone else up.

Guests in hostels do need to get in and out of the rooms at different times. But if you can, use your phone as a flashlight instead of turning all the lights on in the middle of the night.

Just don't shine it directly into people's faces; this is not how you make friends in hostels !

Not all hostels have quiet hours, but if they do, be respectful of other guests by being aware of your noise level. This is especially crucial in densely populated cities like Tokyo or Hong Kong , where space is at a premium.

Some people in this world enjoy being woken up by an alarm.

There are fewer people that enjoy being woken up by an alarm that isn't theirs!

There are few easier ways to annoy your roommates than by letting your alarm go off repeatedly. Getting up can be tough, but remember that you're sharing space here. This is particularly true in popular backpacking destinations like Thailand or Vietnam , where many travelers are on different schedules.

It's fun to chat with your friends while you're getting ready in the morning, but unless you guys have the dorm to yourselves, go somewhere else to do it. This is especially important in cities known for their early-rising culture, like Stockholm or Zurich .

And it is more fun to hang outside anyway…pool anyone? This is particularly appealing in sunny destinations like Barcelona or Sydney .

On the note of things, you should go somewhere else to do…

Speaking of all things sleeping-related, are you going to need to take your own sheets? What about a pillow? Check out our handy hostel packing guide to get an idea of what you do and don't need to take.

Is it safe to stay in hostels?

Generally speaking, yes, hostels are safe . Please always pay close attention to hostel reviews before booking. Check their safety score and location. This is especially important in large cities like London or Istanbul . A locker is always useful to use to keep your stuff safe.

Can you leave your stuff in a hostel?

Yes. Most hostels offer lockers, or you can leave your valuables at the reception. We recommend checking locker availability before booking. For more information, read Do Hostels Have Lockers ?

Why are hostels so cheap?

Hostels are cheaper than hotels as dorms are shared. A hostel can fit 6 people in one room, while hotels only offer private rooms. Hostels need to sell more beds and need more customers than hotels in order to make money. To learn more about the differences, check out our article on Hostel Vs. Hotel: The Difference .

How long can I stay at a hostel?

This really depends on the destination like city and country as well as the hostel policy. Some hostels only allow a maximum stay of 14 days. Others do not have any limit. For example, in popular tourist destinations like Rome or Amsterdam , you might find stricter policies during peak season. For more information on hostel stays, read When to Book Hostels? For Spontaneous Souls & Pre-Planners .

What to wear to sleep in hostel?

It is recommended to wear a pijama or anything alike when sleeping in hostels. As you are sharing a dorm in a hostel, it is appropriate to wear clothing. For more tips on hostel etiquette, check out our guide on Hostel Etiquette: Do's and Dont's .

About the author: Hostelz

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Staying In A Hostel: All The Tips You Need

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 24, 2023 | Budget Travel , Travel Tips

Planning your first backpacking trip? Thinking of staying in hostels? If you have questions about hostel life, you’re in the right place.

I had these questions too when I first started traveling. This hostel guide should give you enough tips to help you enjoy your stay in hostels . 

I’ll answer all the common questions about hostels and I will try to demystify some of the myths associated with backpacking.

Keep reading this guide to hostel life to prepare for your next big adventure.

Staying In A Hostel For The First Time

In this section, I’ll show you what it’s like to be staying in a hostel for the first time. It should give you tips for staying in a hostel alone too.

PSST. Have you ever thought of volunteering in a hostel? You can exchange your time for free accommodation in hostels .

What’s A Hostel?

Hostels (also known as youth hostels) are a form of accommodation that usually has cheap rates and comes with social vibes.

You can think of it as a shared dorm including bunk beds (in most cases).

Nowadays, hostels have become super popular especially for budget travelers. You can find hostels that provide a common kitchen, private rooms, female dorms, pods, etc.

With a new era of “flashpackers”, hostels became more beautiful, modern, and comfortable over the years. You can even find what they call “boutique hostels”.

What’s The Difference Between A Hostel And A Hotel?

Hotels usually offer private rooms only. It’s a form of accommodation where socializing isn’t part of the features offered.

Hostels offer dorms and private rooms. Travelers pick hostels over hotels when they travel solo or with friends. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers.

Are Hostels Clean?

Are hotels always clean? Ha! I got you there. Like any other form of accommodation, hostels can be super clean… or dirty. You should always read the reviews before making a booking. 

Hostels can have the reputation to be dirty – and this is mostly related to the fact that some of the bathrooms are shared. The cleanliness level depends on the hostel standards and on the number of guests.

Most of the time, the hostels are “dirty” because the backpackers don’t clean after themselves.

Here’s an example: if you use the common kitchen and don’t wash your dishes, the staff will do it – but it can take some time. So, you should be a “good guest” and clean after yourself.

Are Hostels Safe?

Overall – yes. Hostels are safe, but if you’re sharing a dorm, you might want to be cautious with your valuables.

That said, having a padlock to lock your stuff away is a great way to avoid any troubles. Sadly, your stuff could get stolen if you leave it out there.

As a woman, when the option is there – I always pick the female dorm. I prefer it as it’s quieter and I feel more comfortable.

Are Hostels Only For Young People?

What’s your definition of “young”? Hostels used to be limited to young people – some hostels used to have an age limit and sometimes, it is still the case. Overall, most hostels don’t have an age limit.

In my experience, if you stay in the cheapest hostel in town, you will find the younger backpackers.

If you pay a few dollars more, you will find a mix of young and older backpackers.  Usually, if you pay more, you will find backpackers with a bigger budget and often, they can be a bit older. 

I’ve been choosing “fancy hostels” for the past few years because when I travel solo now, I prefer to hang out with people around my age. Also, my budget is higher now.

Tips For Staying In Hostels

Ideally, if you’re about to stay in a hostel for the very first time, you should try and have a positive experience.

In the next section, you will find my top tips to pick a good hostel. I became pickier over the years and it is very rare that I don’t enjoy my stays in hostels.

Before we jump to the selection process – let’s sum up the things to keep in mind to have a positive stay.

• Lock your stuff away – You should always book a room that comes with lockers and you should have a padlock with you. You should always lock your stuff when you’re in the shower, or not in the room. You should not leave your phone charging if you’re not around.
• Bring the survival hostel kit – If you’re going to stay in a shared dorm, you should bring an eye mask and earplugs . It can be quite noisy sometimes.
• Read the reviews – I will not tell you enough – reading the views is super important when it comes to picking the right hostel.

Guide To Choosing The Right Hostel

Before jumping to the selection process, let’s take a few minutes to think of what is important to you. Answering these questions will help you select key features.

• Do you prefer to cook your own food? 

PSSST. Want to get FREE accommodation in exchange for work?

If the answer is yes, pick a hostel that provides a fully equipped kitchen. Take a look at our list of backpacking meal ideas for inspiration.

• Do you want to share a dorm?

If the answer is yes, you can pick a mixed dorm or a female-only dorm. If the answer is no, you can select the option to get a private room only.

• Do you want a locker?

If the answer is yes, make sure it’s listed or look at the photos to see the lockers.

• Do you want privacy?

If the answer is yes, try to pick a pod or a bed with curtains for privacy.

• Do you want a pool?

If the answer is yes, pick a place with a pool.

• Are you checking in after midnight?

If the answer is yes, pick a place with a 24h reception.

There are two main booking platforms when it comes to booking hostels. (There are more, but these are the two I personally use.) 

• Booking.com
• Hostelworld

Personally, I prefer Booking.com since I think they have more options. You can filter them easily and the reviews represent a wide range of people.

It feels more accurate with my own standards. On Hostelworld , you find mostly reviews from backpackers and I do not always agree with the reviews in there.

Experience showed me I relate more with the reviews found on Booking.com .

Real-Life Example

Let’s do an example to show you how to pick the perfect hostel. The destination chosen for this example is Chiang Mai in Thailand – which is backpacker heaven. 

I will come up with three main results – the best hostel in Chiang Mai, the hostel at the cheapest price, and the best private room in a hostel.

Here are the steps to follow using Booking.com :

Step 1 : Enter your destination and dates. Click on “Search”.

Step 2 : Decide if you’re looking for a private room or a dorm. If you’re looking into a private room, you can click “show private rooms only”. (Note that this option isn’t always available on mobile.)

Step 3 : If you click on the three dots button, you can select the top reviews to find the best-rated hotel/hostels.

Step 4 : Scroll until you see an option for a dorm. In this example, the number 4 listed is Baan Heart Thai with a review of 9.6 (492 reviews).

Step 5 : Select the interesting hostels and open them in new tabs. If you use Windows, you can press control and click on the hostel name and it should appear in a new tab.

Step 6 : Look at the photos. Check the rooms, but also the common areas. Lots of common area means it can be good for socializing.

Step 7 : Visit every new tabs open one by one and click on the guest reviews section. You will find all the information regarding cleanliness, wifi reliability and atmosphere.

Alternative for the cheapest hostel

Replace step 2 and filter the result with Price (lowest first). Then, you can scroll down and pick a review score that is good enough for the price. I try to go above 8 when possible, but again, reading the reviews should help you make the final decision.

In this example, the cheapest hostel is Jay Guesthouse and Restaurant with a review score of 6.8 (673 reviews).

Alternative for the private room in a hostel

During step 2, select the option to show private rooms only. Sometimes, the listings won’t be private, you might have to look at the description closer.

To find a private room in a hostel, you can look at the options for rooms – you should see dorms and private rooms.

I found The Entaneer Poshtel which offers both dorms and beautiful private rooms.

Benefits of Staying in Hostels

Over the years, I stayed in many hostels. I even worked in a few hostels and you can read about my experience working in hostels .

For solo travelers, it’s an excellent way to meet people . If you’re staying in a hotel, it’s going to be very hard to meet other people. Hostels are ideal for socializing.

I’ve met many good friends in hostels and it is really fun to do fun activities with other travelers sometimes. Solo travel doesn’t have to feel lonely.

Staying in hostels is usually cheaper than staying in a hotel. It’s a great way to save money so you can travel further and longer.

If you’re planning on cooking or doing some washing, many hostels offer laundry services or kitchen which means that you can save money and time by going to a hostel.

Some hostels offer a very cozy atmosphere that makes you feel at home. Feeling at home overseas is a wonderful feeling. It’s like having a family abroad.

Final Thoughts On Staying In A Hostel

Staying in hostels can be good – but you may need to adapt a little if it’s your first time. We hope this guide helps you find great hostels abroad and that you finally figured out how to hostel!

Enjoy your hostel stay and stay open-minded!

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TRIP PLANNING · February 14, 2022 updated on April 21, 2024

The Complete Guide to Staying in a Hostel for the First Time (2024)

Hostels are my favorite type of accommodation while traveling, for so many reasons! They’re usually cheaper, it’s a great way to meet like-minded travellers and make friends from around the globe, and honestly, they just make my trips so much better! I get a lot of questions from beginner travellers about staying in hostels for the first time and what to look for when booking. So, I put together this guide to help you feel comfortable staying in a hostel, know what to look for when booking, and know what to expect!

I have been staying in hostels since my first trip to Europe in 2014, and I have staying in them all over Europe, as well as in South America! When I finally make it to Asia and if I’m lucky enough to backpack Central America, I will definitely be looking into the hostel scene in those areas too.

Please know this website is reader supported and includes some affiliate links. I earn a small commission when you click on or purchase from affiliate links at no additional cost to you. Thank you for your support! !

In this article, we will cover hostel basics, like what a hostel is, how to book them, how to choose a hostel, the benefits of staying in them, hostel safety, tips and etiquette, what to pack, and a few hostels that are on my bucketlist!

Table of Contents

Guide to Staying in Hostels

The hostel experience is something you cannot miss. Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about staying in a hostel.

What is a Hostel? 

A hostel is a type of accommodation, like a hotel or Air BnB, except your room in a hostel is usually shared with other travelers (not always!), and there is typically a common area for travelers to hang out in, and sometimes a shared kitchen as well. Staying in a hostel is super common among budget travelers and is a great place for first time travelers!

Where to Book Hostels 

I almost always book the hostels I stay at through Hostelworld.com . I’ve never had any issues while booking with them and I love the layout of their website for finding hostels. If I’m not using Hostelworld to book, I’ll book my stay directly with the hostel.

Read more: Websites I use to Research & Plan my Trips

How to Choose a Hostel

The main things I consider when choosing a hostel are:

1. Location

Location is the first thing I look at when choosing a hostel because to me, it’s one of the most important things. I would rather pay a bit more money to stay closer to points of interest, instead of saving a bit of money but being super far from everything I want to see! (and then the money you saved on accommodation is just spent on transportation).

2 . Ratings & Reviews

The next important thing to me when choosing a hostel is the ratings and reviews. Once I find a hostel in a location I like, I take a look at the ratings. I like a highly rated hostel (obviously) but also pay attention to the number of reviews. A highly rated hostel with a ton of reviews is a winner in my eyes!

3. Hostel Type

This isn’t as important to me, but it’s something to consider. Some hostels are considered party hostels, and those can be a ton of fun. But, if you know you’ll be super tired at some point in your trip or just not into the party scene, I would avoid booking a party hostel. They can be loud all night and into the early hours, and sometimes that’s just not what you want!

Types of hostels you might come across:

• Party hostels
• Female only hostels
• Eco-friendly hostels
• Boutique hostels

But some hostels are just normal hostels and aren’t really classified as anything!

The cost of your hostel is a very important part when choosing a hostel to stay in. Costs can range from pretty cheap to very expensive, depending on the part of the city the hostel is located in, the city itself, what the hostel offers, and the room type (more on room type down below). Sometimes it’s worth it to spend a little more on a waaaay better hostel, just make sure it fits into your budget!

Read more: How to Save Money Backpacking Europe

5. Amenities & What They Offer

Different hostels provide different things, and this is something you can look for when choosing a hostel to stay at. Some common amenities I consider when booking, (but can’t always get them all) are:

• Laundry – I look for this when I’m booking a hostel on day 12-ish of my trip, or whenever I think I’ll run out of clean clothes. 
• Kitchen – Most have a communal hostel kitchen, which helps you save money in more expensive cities. You can cook our own breakfast, lunch or dinner at the hostel.
• Free breakfast – This can be a nice perk at hostels. It’s great to eat and immediately start exploring for the day. Not to mention, free breakfast saves money!
• Lockers   – This is a must for me. Most hostels offer travelers their own locker to keep their stuff in. It gives me piece of mind that I can lock stuff up since I’m out most of the day.
• Security – Depending on where you’re staying, this might be something to look for (riskier neighborhoods, etc.). Hostels are usually pretty safe, but I do love when a hostel has key card access.
• Free internet/WiFi – Great for watching netflix at night or researching the city you’re in
• Fun things! – Some hostels are super unique. I love a good hostel with incredible views, outdoor pools, bike rentals, and anything fun they might offer 🙂

Take into consideration what you might need at different parts of the trip, and try to book a hostel that will fit your needs!

6. Room Type

When choosing a hostel, I always take a peek at what type of rooms the hostel has to offer. Usually, I’m traveling with my boyfriend, so I book mixed dorms (boys & girls allowed to stay in it) or if the price is right I’ll book a private 2 person room. If you’re a solo female traveler or more comfortable in a female-only dorm room , look for hostels that have this option. I usually look at the number of beds in the hostel dorm room as well. I try to stay away from huge rooms that have like 50 beds in one room, just because of personal preference.

7. Age Limit

Some hostels only allow certain ages – the most common ones being travelers that are 18+ or under 35. If you’re under 18 or over 35, I would do a quick check before booking!

Benefits of Staying in a Hostel 

There are so many great reasons for staying in a hostel on your next trip. A few benefits of staying in a hostel include:

Typically, hostels are cheaper than hotels. Staying on a hostel in most areas of the world can help you save money if you’re travelling on a budget and are a great option to explore.

2. Meet Like-Minded Travellers

Hostels are an excellent way to meet people and make new friends from all over the world! A lot of digital nomads work and live in hostels, and they are suuuper interesting people to get to know.

3. Cook Your Own Meals

Cooking your own meals can help you save money while travelling. It’s also a great option for picky eaters who may have trouble finding food they like in restaurants. If your hostel has a kitchen, you can definitely cook your own meals to save money!

4. Tour Options

Some hostels offer the option to book tours with them or through them. This can be really nice if you’re not sure what tours to take or if you want to book things last minute.

Usually your hostel can give great recommendations for the best tours as well!

5. Access to Information

A lot of people working at hostels are other travellers staying in the area long term, or some are locals! They are full of knowledge and can give you tips on what to see, where to go, where to eat, and more.

6. Organized Events

One of the biggest benefits of staying in a hostel are the events and activities a lot of them plan. Every hostel is different, but these can be things like a movie night, a special barbecue, beer pong tournament, trivia, etc. It’s great because you can have an awesome night out with other travellers, but not have to worry about making it home safe late at night, because you’re bed is in the same building!

7. Pub Crawls

Another benefit of staying in a hostel is that a lot of them run pub crawls on the weekends. It’s a great way to meet other people and go out at night, while still feeling the safety of travelling in a group.

8. Walking Tours

I kind of mentioned this above, but most hostels do offer walking tours, or have recommendations for the best ones. This is a great way to initially see the place you’re in and another opportunity to make friends!

Staying Safe in a Hostel 

Staying in a hostel is typically safe! So far, I’ve never felt threatened or unsafe while staying in a hostel. Obviously, use your judgment, but people staying in hostels are like-minded travelers on a budget like you 🙂

Some safety tips for staying in a hostel are:

• Female only room – if you’re young female travelers, sometimes staying in a female only dorm can help keep your mind at ease at night.
• Private rooms – If you’re really hoping to stay in a hostel but are also interested in your own room, a lot of hostels usually have the option to book private rooms!
• Keep your stuff secure in your locker – Bring your own lock and keep your stuff locked up. I’ve seen people leave macbooks and cameras on their beds all day, but it’s just smarter to take care of your stuff!
• Use your discretion! – If you have a bad feeling about a room or a hostel, ask for a room switch or move hostels completely. It’s worth it for your own peace of mind.
• You can watch for hostels that offer 24 hour security, have a curfew, or have key card access
• Research the neighborhood your hostel is in – Every city has neighborhoods you don’t really want to be in. Look up the neighborhood you’re potential hostel is in before booking. While at your hostel, you can ask the reception if there are any unsafe areas of the city to avoid.
• Reviews   – I love reviews. Usually, I make sure there’s a good amount and look for anything that might be a red flag about the hostel itself, or the area the hostel is in.

Read more: Safety Tips for Your First Time Travelling Europe !

First Time Hostel Tips and Etiquette 

• Avoid plastic bags – These are SO annoying. You don’t want to be that person crinkling plastic bags around your suitcase looking for something while everyone is sleeping or taking a nap.
• Don’t turn on the light in the middle of the night – You would think this is common sense. But if you do this in the middle of the night, someone will probably get mad at you. If you’re planning to come back to the room or leave in the middle of the night, have your stuff organized and use a flashlight.
• Don’t shoot your flashlight around the room – If you’re using a flashlight, don’t shine it on everyone’s faces while they’re sleeping. (This has happened to me so many times!).
• Be respectful – Try to keep your stuff generally in your own space and not everywhere all over the room all the time. And just be a nice person! Say hello, make friends, and use your short time there to make friends with so many other cool travelers!
• Reach out to solo travelers – You don’t have to do this, but this is something I’ve been trying to do while staying in hostels. Sometimes solo travelers can be shy or it can be exhausting always trying to find someone nice to hang out with. I usually try to greet someone who seems to be traveling alone and offer them to come out to lunch with us or something. They’re welcome to say no, but sometimes they say yes and I’ve made incredible friends because of this! Plus they appreciate it so much too.

Things to Pack When Staying in a Hostel 

• Flip flops – I like to wear flip flops to the bathroom and in the communal showers.
• Lock – A lot of hostels require you to bring your own lock for the lockers. If you forget one, usually the hostel will sell locks, but the price can sometimes be a little more expensive.
• Power bar – This isn’t an essential, but it can come in handy. Sometimes each bed in a dorm room has it’s own outlet, but sometimes there is only one outlet in a room of 20 beds. It can make charging your electronics next to impossible, so a power bar can come in handy if you run into this.
• Cash for laundry – if you’re planning to pay for laundry at the hostel, usually this is an extra charge to be paid with in cash.
• Eye mask/ear plugs – for when others come into the room in the middle of the night and turn the light on, shine their flashlights in your face, or rustle their plastic bags for 10 minutes looking for their toothbrush. 
• A paper copy or screenshot of your reservation – Just in case they have trouble finding your reservation when you arrive, it can be handy to have something to show the receptionist.

You might also be interested in: Costs to Consider in Your Travel Budget

Arriving at Your Hostel

When you arrive at your hostel, typically you will check-in at the reception desk and get your keycard/key for the room you are placed in. The person at the reception will usually give you a quick rundown of the city and any travel tips or recommendations they might have. Sometimes hostels will assign you your bed, and sometimes you get to choose from whatever beds are not taken. Usually, beds in hostels are bunk beds, but sometimes there will be regular beds to choose from as well!

Hostels on my Bucket List:

There are a lot of super cool hostels you can stay at all over the world. Some of the hostels on my bucket list are:

Generator Paris – Looks super cute with a cool outdoor terrace

Caveland Greece – I’m dying to stay here. It is the epitome of Greece complete with an outdoor pool!

PLUS Florence – This hostel has a pretty good view of the Duomo (my favourite church ever) which is really the only reason I want to stay here.

Hostel Cascada Verde – A treehouse in Costa Rica!

Bambuda Lodge – An incredible view from an outdoor pool and a waterslide into the ocean in Panama’s jungle. This place looks like a dream.

I’ve never stayed at any of these hostels before, but they look amazing!!

Hostel FAQ:

Yes, overall hostels are safe! If you’re nervous to stay in a hostel for the first time, you can book an all female-dorm, book a hostel that has 24 hour security, make sure to book one in a nicer neighborhood, and choose a hostel that requires a key to enter dorm rooms. You can also book a private room in a hostel, to get most of the benefits but still maintain some privacy.

Most hostels have a shared common areas, dorm rooms with multiple beds, shared bathrooms, kitchens, and other amenities for travellers on a budget. Hotels on the other hand, typically just have a lobby area and private rooms with private bathrooms attached. Some hostels also offer private rooms, but not every hostel does! Hostels are also often cheaper than hotels, but always make sure to compare prices before booking.

Yes, hostels are absolutely worth staying in! I love staying in hostels to save money, meet new people, and make amazing memories while travelling!

It can be hard for light sleepers to sleep in hostels. Roommates can also make it difficult to sleep in hostels, if people are going in and out in the middle of the night, shuffling in their bags, or randomly turning the lights on when you’re trying to sleep. If noise bothers you or you’re worried you’ll have trouble sleeping, make sure to bring ear plugs and an eye mask to help you sleep better.

Staying in a Hostel Summary

Staying in a hostel can be an awesome travel experience in itself, and is a great option if you are travelling on a budget! When choosing a hostel to book, make sure you look at reviews, distance from the city, and overall rating before booking.

There are a ton of benefits to staying in a hostel, with one of the main ones being saving money and being able to meet other travellers! Most hostels also run fun events which can add to your overall experience.

I absolutely love staying in hostels, and I hope this guide helps you to feel more prepared about staying in a hostel for the first time!

More on Trip Planning:

• How to Save Money Backpacking Europe
• How to Plan a Trip to Europe for the First Time
• 20 Tips to Help You Stay Safe While Travelling
• Different Ways to Get Around Europe & the Pros and Cons of Each

I LOVE staying in hostels, and living the hostel life while traveling. I hope this guide to staying in a hostel helps you plan your next trip!

Any questions left unanswered? Send me a message on Instagram !

Find me on: Instagram | Pinterest

Hey! I’m Kat. Based in Alberta, Canada I love to travel to the Rockies and explore new places around the world. Follow along on my adventures and find inspiration and tips for your own travels.

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The Ultimate Guide to Staying at a Hostel

Yesterday one of my good friends asked me a few questions about hostels in prep for a trip to New England and today, she came back with a few more… and it dawned on me- even domestic (read: in the US ) staying at a hostel is still pretty foreign to most people . Well, I’m here to help!

I’ve stayed in hostels since I was 16 and travelled all around the world so I have a really good understanding on  what makes hostels tick, what to do, what NOT to do and where to go.

But first I want to explain how freakin’ awesome and amazing hostels are so you understand why you should consider staying in one.

Top reasons to stay at a hostel

Price. hostels are cheap (obviously)..

Some even dirt cheap (and some not so cheap but we can get into that later.) Traveling solo or even with a friend, you would be hard pressed to find any accommodation as low in cost with as many amenities as your typical hostel. Which brings us to…

Fun! Hostels are fun, seriously seriously fun. 

Those ‘amenities’ mentioned in 1. can be anything from a rocking bar inside the hostel to pool tables, grills, a full kitchen, swimming pools, community guitars- you name it, I’ve probably found it for free (or cheap) to use in a hostel.

Location. 

Hostels cram a bunch of people single room with bunk beds (you can pay more for a private room but why would you?) which means they bring in some cash during busy seasons which really means they can afford the high rents in busy, “travel destination” locations.

• This a. ROCKS because you are in the middle of some awesome city
• and b. means the hostel is usually somehow or another accessible by public transit which is always great too.

The Staff and other Backpackers. 

80% of traveling is the people you meet and same goes for staying in hostels. From the young, vagabond staff to other travelers staying in the hostel, everyone is there to have a good time. Most hostels have activities set up from city tours, pub crawls, themed dinner nights and even open mic nights to bring everyone together but even without all of that fun activity stuff, staying in a hostel is an amazing social experience that you just don’t get at your local Motel .

There are hostels all over the US so even if you just want to plan a rowdy weekend getaway by yourself or with a few friends, there is probably a rockin-good-time (and sometimes totally-chilled-out) hostel much closer to you than you think.

If you wanna check out hostels in your area, I recommend hostelworld.com because of their rating system (you can get a better idea of what to expect before you go.) I can play around on that website for hours, looking at prices and rating of where I want to go and what activities the hostels have planned. It’s rad. Go ahead and check it out. Really. I’ll wait…

Welcome back! I’m assuming now you are super stoked to finally plan that crazy weekend trip with your best girlfriend so I’ll give you a few tips on what to do when you get there.

BOOK YOUR NEXT HOSTEL STAY ON HOSTELWORLD !

Tips for staying in hostels

Get a travel backpack.

Backpackers usually stay in hostels  and backpackers are called ‘backpackers’ because they (usually) carry a backpack… not a suitcase. Hostels are notoriously NOT roller suitcase friendly. There are typically stairs (if you are physically disabled there are certainly options here though) and tight quarters.

If all you have as a big ass roller suitcase than by all means, take that but if you have carry options of a duffle bag and a backpack instead, I would recommend that simply for easier mobility.

We highly recommend any of the Osprey Farpoint backpacks . They offer various sizes for both men and women. Apart from your big backpack, get a small daypack for every day use – we love the eco-friendly, sustainable options from Day Owl (use the code DAYOWL10 for 10% off).

You need to lock your shit up. 

No, hostels are not the hangout places for shady characters and thieves like some people have made them out to be but here’s the deal- just like you would lock your car even if you live in a safe neighborhood, you should lock up your stuff, even if you’re in a safe hostel.

There are a few ways to do this. Most hostels will assign you a locker with your bunk bed that you can put your stuff into and most of the time it is in the same room as the beds. It’s super convenient but you NEED TO BRING YOUR OWN LOCK. Let me repeat that, for 98% of any hostels that you stay in you will NEED TO BRING YOUR OWN LOCK. A little combination lock from Amazon is really all you need. I personally use a little Burton snowboard lock that stretches so I can lock it around my pack on trains or buses but totally anything will do.

Hostel Kitchen Etiquette. 

An awesomely amazing thing about most hostels is access to a full kitchen. Not only is it a really fun way to meet people (in the AM cooking breakfast, at night making beer munchies) but it is also super super super convenient (can you say, beer fridge?!)

Check out what’s stocked in the kitchen before you go shopping so you know better what to buy. A lot of time, people will stay at the hostel and leave whatever extra food they bought behind which usually becomes a communal food supply. Anything from bread to condiments to boxed meals- you can totally score big in the hostel kitchen. Most stuff will be labeled or marked and obviously, don’t take anything that’s not yours but it’s safe to say the huge ass container of generic brand peanut butter that’s not specifically labeled “STAFF” is fair game.

Always clean up after yourself (cleaning supplies provided) and label your stuff with a Sharpee or Post It… and I always write “COMMUNAL” or “Up for grabs” on the stuff that I leave behind.

Lock Outs and “Work to Stay”.

Some hostels have something called a LOCK OUT which is anytime during the day that the staff basically kicks out everyone in the hostel for a few hours to clean and prep or whatever. Lock Outs are usually boldly stated on whatever you sign to check in and I have to say, they are not common in US hostels and seem to be fading in Europe as well. Some people get all bent out of shape about Lock Outs but I figure as long as it’s not before 10am, who cares? A little forced sightseeing never hurt anyone (and that’s kind of why you’re traveling, right?)

“Work to Stay” is a really cool thing about hostels too. Work to Stay means just that if you are planning on staying in a place for a week or more, sometimes you can talk to the staff there and set it up that you work a few shifts in return for free room and board. Super super money saver and it gives you a whole new perspective on where ever you’re traveling through as well. Admittedly, that is more of an “experienced” hostellers’ thing but still rad.

The Layout and What to Bring when staying at a hostel (that’s different from a hotel)

Hostels come in all different shapes and sizes (isn’t that cute?) and I love them all.

Your average hostel is pretty predicable though so let me walk you through one… Most hostels have a  courtyard  or  outdoor space  set up with some sort of chairs and tables and a grill. The courtyard is where everyone meets up and chills at night either before they hit the bars or if money is tight, they just hang out there all night. If you want a quieter hostel experience, request a dorm room away from the outdoor area.

Lobby/ Front Desk. 

Hostel lobbies and front desks are super laid back so don’t expect a door man or even any help with your luggage. The staff is usually some 20-something who came to visit from some foreign place and never went back and almost always they are super nice and helpful.

Dorm Rooms. 

Down the hall from the ‘lobby‘ (if you can call it that) will most likely be the dorm rooms. The rooms vary as much as the hostels themselves with 2 to 12 bunk beds, single sex, shared (which means both guys and girls) and even private if you want to pay more (again, why?) You walk into your little assigned room and throw some clothes on a open, clean bed, sometimes tape the little paper they gave you on the bedpost and BAM- you’ve claimed your bed (if the bed number wasn’t already assigned, those are the really organized hostels though.)

Bathrooms. 

Think college dormitory bathrooms. Shower stalls that you walk your little shower bag or caddy to, stalled toilets and usually outlets by the sinks to shave and blow dry your hair. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at the cleanliness of most hostel bathrooms. Some people wear flip flops in the shower, some don’t. Some people walk from their dorm room to the bathroom in just their towel, some change in the actual bathroom. Whatevs.

We highly suggest getting a pair of Eddy Slides from SUAVS Shoes. They are made with a supple, premium digital knit, a soft, moisture absorbing footbed and a lightweight and cushioned sole. They are perfect for both showering in, wearing around the hostel, lounging by the pool, and taking to the beach. They’re also super lightweight so perfect for packing and they’re made with 100% recycled materials! Use our promo code TravelDudes15 for 15% off !

Community Rooms and Kitchen. 

Aside from the outdoor area, front desk, dorms and bathrooms, the communal rooms are a toss up. A hostel in Hollywood has an upstairs bar with lounge couches, a big screen TV and fooseball table. A hostel in Amsterdam has a pool table, bar and “smoking room” complete with a communal bong and beanbag chairs. Some hostels have night clubs, some have computer rooms, usually you can get an idea of what the hostel has from their website but if not, it’s just going to have to be a fun surprise!

What to Bring. 

When you pack, pack kind of like you are crashing at a friend’s house. Bring your own toiletries and towel but almost always the hostel provides bedding (it will be boldly stated if not the case.) Bring a lock and your sparkling attitude and you’re set!

Ready, set, EXPLORE!

Book your next hostel stay on HostelWorld !

I'm sure you've had similar experiences I had whilst traveling. You're in a certain place and a fellow traveler, or a local, tip you off on a little-known beach, bar or accommodation. Great travel tips from other travelers or locals always add something special to our travels. That was the inspiration for Travel Dudes.

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Top 7 tropical places to retire, top tips for booking an african safari with an agent, independent travel: freedom over timeshares, follow us on instagram @/traveldudes/.

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10 Tips for Staying in Hostels: Best Hostel Tips

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

The very first time I went to Europe, 18-year-old me was excited beyond belief. I was also unconcerned with anything to do with accommodation and didn’t bother to look up tips for staying in hostels.

Instead, I made a lot of newbie mistakes as a first-time hostel goer. Mostly, I booked the wrong places, putting budget above comfort like any student would do. Honestly speaking, I’m embarrassed to admit some of the situations I’ve found myself in!

In the years since, I’ve stayed in all sorts of hostels from private rooms in hostel-hostel hybrids like the Hostalin Madrid with my mom to mixed dorms with 29 other people along the Camino de Santiago . Needless to say, I’ve learned a ton. Thus, I’m pleased to say that I am now well versed with all the tricks of the trade for staying in hostels.

To help you make the most of your trip , let’s go over some vital hostel tips that I wish I knew during my first trip—and some helpful hostel etiquette as, well.

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10 Tips for Staying in a Hostel

Once you’ve found and booked your hostel you’re excited about, here are 10 helpful hostel tips .

1. Pack your belongings during the day

Everyone wants to sleep well at a hostel. (Well, maybe not at party hostels! Read about hostel types to find your ideal hostel.)

Do yourself and your bunkmates a favor by packing during the day. To clarify, rustling through your pack late at night or early in the morning won’t be appreciated.

Rather, do all of your sorting, purging, and clothes-folding when people are awake. This way if you do need to get up early, at least you can swiftly grab you organized pack before slipping out the door.

To stay organized for your own sanity—as well as that of your bunkmates—we recommend using packing cubes . This way, you’ll know exactly where things are, save yourself the hassle of searching, and help you avoid making noise at odd hours.

2. Bring earplugs and a mask

If you want to get some sleep, an excellent hostel tip is to bring ear plugs and a comfy sleep mask . It is almost certain that people will snore, sleep talk, and mill about the room around the clock.

Specifically, people often come in very late, or leave super early in the morning to catch their next train or flight.

Other noisy and light-inducing things to consider when finding a hostel: creaky beds, old buildings, location of bathrooms, and street noise.

If you snore, people will understand. That’s par for the course when staying in a hostel. On that note, you may want to let others know you snore as a courtesy. Passing out individually-wrapped ear plugs is well received, in my experience.

In the end, pop in your earplugs , and don your eye mask , and you’re good to go! (By the way, I’ve tried many ear plugs over the years, and the Flents ear plugs are my favorite. I do recommend giving them a try!)

3. Be ready to check in

When checking in, have your booking information handy . Depending on the location, not all hostels have high tech booking systems. If you can show them your confirmation, that can go a long way if there’s any confusion. Along with your booking information, get your passport and payment method ready.

Note that some hostels are still cash-only. Others prefer cash to avoid booking and software fees. If you haven’t prepaid, find out what the preferred payment method is.

While many hostels operate 24/7, not all do. If you’re going to be late, notify the hostel. This courtesy will be appreciated. Moreover, your bunk won’t be given away!

Lastly, check-in is your opportunity to ask for the bunk you want if you didn’t do so during the booking process. See how to choose and book a good hostel.

Pro Tip: It’s always good to have cash on hand when traveling. Many years ago I had a problem with my debit card. The hostel was gracious enough to let me stay the night without paying as it was very late. The next day, I was able to sort it out and pay. But, this will not always be the case, so get cash on your way!

4. Maintain your privacy

Since hostels are communal spaces, you’re probably going to want some privacy.

For one thing—sadly—theft does occur in hostels from time to time.

Second, you might need some down time after a busy day.

That being said, let’s go over a few basic steps for maintaining some level of privacy in the hostel.

Try your best not to leave things lying around or flash your valuables in front of your roommates. In other words, don’t count your cash or leave your passport out.

Instead, keep things tucked away, especially valuables. You can use a money belt or other type of small bag to store your valuables.

If you do need to re-organize your pack, try to do it when you’re alone in the room.

Next, a sarong , pashmina , or other lightweight travel towel is great for hiding items—or yourself! Hang one on your bunk, and take a nap in peace.

5. Take advantage of common areas

Whether you want to save money by cooking or need to work, hostels offer many different types of common areas that may interest you.

Not only did you pay for these areas, but they are also where you might meet some new and interesting people from all over the world. 

Finding a global, like-minded community of people to eat with, tour with, or simply share tips on how to get to the airport is sure to be a highlight of any backpacker’s trip!

Some hostels offer amazing common areas including:

• Patio or rooftop terrace 
• Coworking space

With these things in mind, our favorite hostel tip is to take advantage of this hostel-specific feature.

6. Lock your belongings

If we’ve said it once, we’ve said it a thousand times: theft happens in hostels.

For this reason, always keep your valuables with you at all times.

If the hostel offers a locker, use it.

You should also bring a lock to lock your backpack or suitcase.

“But they can just steal my suitcase or slash my backpack,” you say.

We understand and share your concern. By and large, thieves search for easy targets: passports lying around, a wallet under a pillow, or cash peeking out of the top pocket of a backpack.

Put a lock on your bag, attach it to your bedpost or to your friend’s backpack, and use lockers. This may not be fail-proof, but it’s a great deterrent.

We review the best travel locks for hostels in our hostel packing list.

7. Attend events

If you want to get to know the local area, enjoy your favorite activities, or meet other people, you may be in luck!

Many hostel offer free tours, classes, or organize meals together.

If you’re staying alone, this is your opportunity to interact with locals and other travelers. Take El Granado in Granada, Spain , for instance. They organize get togethers so guests can get to know each other.

Plus, the more people you know, the more comfortable you’ll feel . It’s nice to know there is someone watching out for you, too. 

For the most part, the quiet, hotel-hostel hybrid properties don’t offer any events.

In any case—event seeker or not—make sure you do your research to choose the ideal hostel type for YOU!

8. Showering at hostels is nothing to worry about

Showering at hostels may sound intimidating, but it’s really not a big deal in the end.

To begin with, hostel showers and bathrooms will either be in the hallway or ensuite (in your room). On the whole, the are very clean.

To be succinct, bring shower shoes and a hanging toiletry bag , and you’re all set.

By the way, since lots of people are using the showers and bathrooms from day to day, it’s your job as a guest to tidy up after yourself. Don’t leave hair or shaving remnants behind, for one thing.

If you want some [relative] privacy, ask the front desk staff when the showers are least busy. 

9. Respect others

As has been noted, hostels are communal. The hostel experience isn’t the same as staying in a hotel where you may not speak to anyone after checking in. (Though we think you should be respectful wherever you go!)

In essence, hostels run on mutual respect and a sense of camaraderie.

Just because you’re staying there doesn’t mean you don’t clean up after yourself or act a fool.

Here are some general tips for hostel etiquette:

• Never touch or move other people’s stuff —gear, laundry, phone chargers, food, you-name-it. If it’s not yours, leave it be.
• Avoid making noise late at night or early in the morning . Rustling through plastic bag and talking to your friend in the dormitory rather than the common room, are some examples.
• Please don’t stay up playing on your phone . You may think it’s no big deal, but it lights up the whole room. Use your phone in the common areas, and go to bed when you’re done.
• Keep rooms locked . You might think it’s no big deal to leave the door to the bunkroom unlatched while you run down to get your laundry, but leaving your roommates’ items in a vulnerable position is a big no-no.

10. Trust your instinct

Although hostels are generally safe, unexpected things happen once in a while

In reality, we think you’re going to be just fine (more than fine, really!).

Regardless, this wouldn’t be a complete list of tips for staying in hostel without addressing safety.

Start your stay by introducing yourself to the staff at the front desk upon arrival. Feel free to ask questions, get advice, and make yourself at home.

After that, use common sense, and trust your instincts.

If you feel unsafe or something just isn’t sitting well, inform a hostel staff member. They can help to investigate and make things right—which might include changing your room.

We also highly recommend you get travel insurance to guard yourself against the fallout from theft, illness, or injury. Use the widget below to get a quote .

Best booking tools for backpackers and other hostel-goers

Check out our recommended booking tools for self-planned itineraries:

• Google Flights – Start your planning here. To get an idea of flight prices and routes, browse Google Flights by using the explore map.
• Skyscanner – Find flights that other search engines miss.
• Expedia – Best all around booking tool, search for hotels, flights, cars, vacation packages, and cruises. No matter where you are going, this booking tool help every type of traveler get the best value every time.

Accommodations:

• Booking.com – Access a clear, easy, and transparent hotel booking process that includes hotels, hostels, guesthouses, and more. It’s great for anyone who likes to stay organized and do research.
• Hostelworld – The leading provider of online hostel reservations to budget, independent, and youth travelers, Hostelworld has has a great search interface and the largest inventory of hostels to choose from.
• Airbnb – Rent a room or entire apartment to live like a local. (Use my link to get $65 off your first stay)

Transportation:

• Rome 2 Rio – Begin planning your in-country travel with this website offering air, train, bus, or taxi routes.
• Rail Europe and Trainline  (our preference) – For train and bus travel in Europe, try these two. You can also purchase train and bus tickets directly from suppliers.
• Bla Bla Car – Find a carpool ride with this ridesharing APP. Just chip in for gas!

Travel Insurance:

• World Nomads – Don’t forget to protect your investment from trip interruptions to unexpected injuries.

Go to our resources page  for more booking tools we use to plan our trips.

It’s time to have some hostel fun!

There you have it! I could go on and on about hostel tips we can all follow to both have a good stay ourselves as well as better our fellow bunkmates’ trips. But, I think these tips are a good place to start.

For more tips for staying in hostels, please feel free to check the related articles, below!

Staying hostels? You may also like…

Want more info on becoming a hostel expert? Check out some of our top articles:

• Should I stay in a mixed dorm?
• Hostel Essentials: Hostel Packing List for a Successful Trip

Blogger & Ex-Spanish Teacher

Tristina Oppliger has traveled to 35+ countries on five continents. Having previously lived in Spain, she loves studying foreign languages and cultures. In fact, she has a Master's in Foreign Language Education and is a former Spanish Teacher! Tristina is passionate about living free—remote work, exploring the world, and finding adventure wherever she goes.

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A beginner's guide to hostels: everything you need to know

Updated On 8th March, 2024

Staying in a hostel for the first time can be daunting if you don’t know what to expect, but trust me, it’s the best experience ever! From making new friends to saving a load of money as part of your adventure, I think staying in hostels is one of the best things about backpacking.

When I first started travelling, I’d always stay in hostels,  preferring them to hotels , despite the comfort and privacy of a hotel room! The way I see it, if you’re really exploring, you don’t spend enough time in a luxury hotel to justify the cost. Making new friends when I’m travelling is way more important to me than having the comfiest bed, and I’ve made some really good friends in hostels all over the world:  Sydney,   Byron Bay,   Amsterdam,  Hanoi,   Taupo ,  Queenstown,   London  and more!

EXPLORE BACKPACKING TIPS AND ADVENTURES ON MY BLOG HERE

But, since the hostel experience is different from staying in an AirBnb, I’ve written a beginner’s guide to hostels to answer any questions you have. From the unwritten rules to things you didn’t know to expect, this post will cover everything you need to know about staying in hostels. From getting up early without annoying your roommates, to choosing the best hostel for you, I’ve got you covered! 

A beginner’s guide to hostels: what to really expect during your first time in a hostel…

First time in a hostel FAQs:

Why are hostels the best.

I love staying in hostels for so many reasons! They’re budget-friendly, solo traveller friendly, and often in great locations so you’re ready to start exploring.

Are hostels expensive?

No, hostels are usually much cheaper than other accommodation. Ok, you don’t have the privacy of a luxury hotel room but you often get added extras in the hostel experience such as events, a cheap bar and/or restaurant, free breakfast, and the opportunity to make loads of friends!

Are hostels safe?

I’ve never felt unsafe in a hostel. I’m sure that there are occasions where this might happen, so you should always be wary, but on the whole, hostels are very safe. There are usually lockers in the room for your valuables, and friendly staff on reception to help you if you need anything.

Are hostels and hotels the same?

No. Both give you a bed to sleep in, but hotels have a lot more privacy than hostel dorm rooms, and usually a much higher price. If you want the hostel experience but you want some privacy, you can usually pay more to get a private hostel room.  See why I prefer hostels to hotels here.

Hostels vs AirBnb…

Don’t get me wrong, I love AirBnb. If you want the privacy and more of a home experience, go for AirBnb. If you don’t mind sharing and you want to make friends, stay in a hostel.  Get £25 off your first AirBnb stay here.

What does hostel life teach you?

Hostel life teaches you to be resourceful, sociable and patient! You’re accountable for yourself and your budget, so you become independent (emotionally and financially), but you get to share that experience with people in your dorm. You’ll also meet people along the way that you don’t vibe with, or you’ll come across some challenges that frustrate you, and that’s where the patience comes in! It’s also a really cheap way to see the world!

Hostel essentials: what to bring…

Staying in a hostel for the first time brings many challenges, packing being one of them! Here are my hostel essentials…

Anker PowerCore 20000mAh Portable Charger

How to book your hostel….

Hostelworld ,  Hostel Bookers ,  Hostelling International ,  booking.com  and  YHA  (Youth Hostels Association, in the  UK ) all have an array of hostels and deals all over the world for you to choose from. These websites will be able to give you information about breakfast, laundry, WiFi, lockers and more, as well as show reviews from other travellers so you know what it’s really like there. 

Before you book your hostel check…

• Location  (Is it near a train station/bus station/airport? Near the city centre? Near something you really want to see/do?)
• Price  (Make sure it’s in your budget! Check if anything is included in the price, e.g. breakfast). 
• Type  of hostel (party vs chilled)
• Facilities  (kitchen, laundry, WiFi, lockers, 24/7 reception, late check in, bar)
• Reviews  (see what other guests have to say about their experience there!)

If you’re still confused about choosing a hostel to book, check out  this post  to make sure you’re choosing the best hostel for you!

First time in a hostel: 30 top tips…

Choosing and booking hostels, 1. single gender dorms vs mixed dorms: it’s personal preference. .

Personally I think mixed dorms are more fun, more relaxed, and more dynamic. And it’s not any less safe than staying in a female dorm! Ultimately though, choose what makes you comfortable. 

2. Larger dorms have more opportunities for friendships. 

Due to the number of people in the dorm, there’s guaranteed to be someone who wants to go on a night out or a day trip or for food with you, or someone that you’ll gel with! Smaller dorms can be groups of friends with one spare bed, so bear that in mind if you want to make friends with like minded solo travellers. However if you want some chill time in a quieter space, smaller dorms might be for you! 

3. Book in advance at peak times. 

If you’re going for an event, like the Full Moon party in Thailand, peak backpacking times in Australia or NYE in Sydney, then definitely book in advance. These places get busy and booked up quickly! When I first visited Byron Bay I turned up wanting to be spontaneous and there was no accommodation… luckily I met Sammy from RatPack Travel who had a friend with a campervan I could stay in, but I didn’t think the story would end that well! 

If you book way in advance, confirm your booking 48 hours before so that the hostel remember you’ve booked.

Being spontaeneous has its place: somewhere with a lot of options, especially if you’ve done your research and you know that there will be lots of offline options and bargains to be had! Just be aware that if it’s busy, just turning up might not work so well.

If you’re nervous about going travelling, here’s  how I overcome my pre-travel nerves.

If you aren’t sure about whether you should solo travel, this is  why I recommend it to everyone.

ARRIVING AT THE HOSTEL…

4. tell the hostel if you’re going to arrive late..

If you know you’re going to arrive late at night, let the hostel know so that they don’t sell the bed to someone else if they think you aren’t going to turn up. Have your ID ready to check in, and payment if you haven’t paid already. 

5. Say hi to your new roommates! 

Even if you just smile and say hello because you’re busy, a friendly introduction goes a long way, especially if you are going to want to hang out with these people later in your stay! It’s quite off-putting if you go into a dorm room and no one notices you walk in, and so you don’t want to be that person. A new person in your dorm might be quite nervous about backpacking or staying in a hostel, so be open and friendly, make eye contact and smile, and you’ll be well on your way to making a new friend.

6. Everyone has a preference on top bunk vs bottom bunk. 

Top bunk pros: People won’t just come and sit on your bed for a chat, so they won’t touch stuff on the bed.

Bottom bunk: No ladder, no wobbling!

Check out  this post  for everything you need to know about  surviving long haul flights! 

Here are my  top tips for planning and researching your next adventure.

MAKING FRIENDS IN HOSTELS…

7. invite people to group activities. .

Sometimes you need a bit of personal space, but if you feel like some company or don’t mind people tagging along, invite your roomies along. Feeling welcomed can make or break a stay in a hostel, so be nice!

If you end up making friends with your roommates, you could go on to keep travelling together! Also, things like getting up early or missing an alarm are less likely to annoy friends than they are strangers.

8. Hostel common areas and organised events are a great way to meet people outside your dorm. 

Drinks at the hostel bar, organised pub crawls or day trips… you name it, hostels organise it. There are also always people in the kitchen, bar and common areas. Get involved and make some new friends!

For all my top tips on making friends while you’re solo travelling, check out  this post.

Homesickness doesn’t have to ruin your trip!  Here are my top tips for overcoming homesickness when you’re travelling.

HOSTEL FACILITIES…

9. keep your shower time to a minimum. .

Most bathrooms are shared between several guests, so do what you need to do, but as quickly as you can. I’ve shared one bathroom in a 32-bed dorm before, so you need to be speedy! Don’t forget to take your toiletries out the bathroom if you’re sharing it, rather than leaving them in the shower like you would at home.

10. Bring flip flops for the shower. 

The bathrooms are shared and so you don’t know what’s on the ground!  Buy my favourite flip flops here.

11. Keep the hostel kitchen clean. 

There is no maid to clean up after you! Leave the kitchen as you would like to enter it. 

The hostel kitchen is a great place to make friends, because everyone’s got to eat!

12. Hostel pillows and sheets aren’t always great.

Some hostels allow you to take your own sheets if you prefer. If not, you may want to use your  travel neck pillow  or a jumper to prop up your pillow a little, and a pashmina as a replacement/extra blanket!

13. Some hostels charge for towels.

Not all, but some hostels charge to rent towels. I always take a microfibre towel travelling with me to save money on these costs!

Also, if you forget your toiletries and you need them urgently, they’re often on sale at reception. If not, pop to a local supermarket for bigger bottles and lower prices!

14. Buying a local SIM may be cheaper than paying for hostel WiFi.

Most hostels nowadays have free WiFi, but that’s always worth checking!

15. Have coins for the coffee and vending machines.

Great for a cheeky midnight snack or morning pick me up!

16. Having a proper, free breakfast will save you money on food during the day.

Don’t over do it or you’ll get a sore tummy and not save any food for anyone else, but taking advantage of the free breakfast will definitely reduce your food budget. Shopping in supermarkets and cooking in the hostel kitchen will also help you save money!

17. Bring a padlock and use the lockers! 

Are hostel dorms safe? Yes, but remember you’ve only just met the people you’re sharing a room with! Hostels nearly always have lockers so make the most of these for your valuables and any other belongings you can fit. Take a  padlock  with you, because if not you’ll have to pay to rent one. Lockers are definitely something to look for when you’re choosing which hostel to stay in. I always lock things away when I’m sleeping and when I’m not in the room, especially my passport, phone, money, and expensive technology (computer and cameras!).

For advice on female solo travel, check out  these top tips! 

Here are my  top tips for staying safe during solo travel.

MORNINGS IN HOSTEL DORMS…

18. set an alarm in the morning in hostels, but turn it off straight away .

You’ve got to wake up for an activity, trip or flight, but you don’t want to disturb other people in your dorm. It’s a bit of a dilemma, but ultimately, if you’ve got to get up, you’ve got to get up. Just be aware of others around you. Some people will have had a late night, or just want a lie in, and they won’t want to wake up with you. As soon as your alarm goes off, wake up and turn it off. Don’t let it ring ten times or keep putting it on snooze! Make sure it’s actually turned off before you leave the dorm to shower, because otherwise it’ll wake people up once you’re in there. Once you’re up, get ready and out of the room as quickly as you can and leave your roomies to sleep. 

19. Don’t turn the main light on in the morning in hostels.

If you need to get up early, turn the reading light on by your bed or your phone torch and leave the main light off so the others in your hostel dorm can sleep. 

20. If you have an early start, get your stuff together the night before. 

Don’t wake your hostel roommates up too early by rustling through your bags. If you’re leaving early, pack your bags the night before and only leave out what you need for the morning. You can also do this if you’re going on an early day trip or if you’re an early bird in general!

21. Take an eyemask and earplugs. 

They’ll save you from anyone who does need to turn on the light in the morning, or anyone who gets back late from a night out or misses their alarm in the morning!  Shop mine here.

NIGHTS IN HOSTEL DORMS…

22. if you’re coming back late, be quiet.

Not everyone wants to wake up if you come back a bit drunk. Before you leave for your night out, get your pyjamas and toothbrush ready and accessible. When you get back, be as quiet as possible and don’t turn on the main light.

23. Don’t have sex in the dorm! (at any time of day!)

Is it ok to have sex in a hostel? It happens, a lot. Alcohol, new friends, good vibes… it’s inevitable. I personally wouldn’t when people are in the room! If you walk into a dorm and someone is having sex, cough or let them know that you’re there, as they might think they’re the only people in the room at that time. If you’re trying to sleep while people are getting it on, cough or ruffle your sheets to let them know that you can hear, and if they still don’t stop, turn over with your earphones in. The only time that might not block it out is if the happy couple are sharing a bunk with you… rock rock rock… then you’ve just gotta ride it out!

For advice on travelling on a budget, check out  these top tips! 

Here are  12 ways to improve your travel photography!

MUTUAL RESPECT IN HOSTELS

24. make calls in the hostel common room..

A lot of hostel WiFi doesn’t reach the dorm rooms anyway, and you don’t want to disturb your hostel roommates with your personal business like calling mum or catching up with a friend, so take calls in the common room. Most common rooms are open 24/7 so they’re a great place to go at night if you need to make a call to a different time zone or if you can’t sleep!

25. Spray aerosols and sprays outside or in the bathroom.

Bug sprays, deodorants, perfumes, sun cream, hairspray… lots of people are allergic to or sensitive to the fumes that come out of sprays and aerosols, so it’s good practice to spray these in the bathroom, or even better, outside.

26. Get to know your roommates before you walk around in your underwear.

If you’re feeling comfortable and so are they, then walking around in your underwear in a hostel is probably not going to be a big deal. Everyone’s got to get ready somehow, after all. However if you or one of the other guests might not feel comfortable in this situation, then it’s better to change in the bathroom.

27. Don’t get naked in the dorm room.

No one needs to get to know you that well in a dorm situation! Similarly, bring PJs, even if you usually sleep naked at home.

28. Check with your roommates before you sit on their bed for a chat.

Most people don’t mind, but some really don’t like it! Don’t touch anyone else’s stuff without permission, especially if you’re drunk and therefore a bit careless!

29. Be mindful and respect others.

A general rule that goes without saying. Everyone is on different time frames and wants different things out of their trip. If you treat others like you want to be treated, it’ll be hard to go wrong!

Some people might be jet-lagged or not feeling well, some might just want an afternoon nap… if people need to sleep in the day, respect that and keep noise to a minimum. You don’t have to be completely silent, but be mindful and think about how you’d feel in their position. Think about how quiet you’ll want that dorm room in the afternoon when you’re hungover if you come in really drunk the night before… Mutual respect!

Most people will be easy-going but some people might be nervous, tired or a bit stressed. Respect the differences and learn to compromise and you’ll have the best time!

Check out this  complete guide to solo travel in Australia.

Here are my  22 top tips for travelling in Southeast Asia.

AND FINALLY…

30. embrace the challenge.

Staying in a hostel is not as easy or as comfortable as a hotel, but what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger! It’s all part of the fun and the growth. Happy travelling!

Watch me talk about some of the top tips in this hostel guide with Christianne from Backpacking Bananas here…

SEE ALL MY YOUTUBE TRAVEL VIDEOS HERE

SEE ALL MY TRAVEL TIPS HERE

Have you stayed in hostels before?

What are your top tips for staying in a hostel for the first time? I’d love to know!

Love as always and happy adventuring,

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love you to share it for me.

I can’t do this without you.

Pin and save this blog post for later…

IT’S LOVELY TO MEET YOU

I’M MOLLIE AND I STARTED THIS BLOG BACK IN 2013 WHEN I HEADED OUT ON MY FIRST BACKPACKING ADVENTURE. 

I’D LOVE TO SHARE THE JOURNEY WITH YOU, WE’VE GROWN A LOT SINCE THEN!

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The BEST Advice for Staying in Hostels

Eric Jamarr is a study abroad veteran, having studied in both Finland and South Africa. He has ne...

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Let's say you're ready to embark on an escapade to a new city but you're undecided as to whether staying in a hostel is a good idea. You have the destination and your flight is booked—but maybe you've heard one too many horror stories about hostels and you're spooked out by the idea of sharing a space with strangers . Rest assured that by following a few hostel travel tips, hosteling can be a lot of fun and a whole lot safer than it may seem.

Staying in a hostel might mean leaving your comfort zone, but it’ll be worth it!

Hostels are far from your typical hotel experience and you can find this type of accommodation in almost any major city around the globe. The biggest benefits of staying in a hostel are typically cost and the added social dynamic.

The majority of travelers and backpackers choose hostels because they are on a budget during their travels and perhaps want to make new friends along their journey. Whether you are traveling with friends or solo, choosing the right hostel could be a game changer.

Is it a good idea to stay at a hostel?

Are you on a budget and ready to meet new people from all over the world?

Absolutely! Most hostels are cost-efficient and still offer a comfortable place to stay. While rooms are shared, most hostels allow you to choose a dorm with a limited number of beds which may or may not fill up. Typically, dorms sleep four, six, or eight people, and sometimes up to 12 people or more.

Hostels tend to have lockers or a safe box at the front desk where you can keep your valuables. In any case, if you aren't feeling the idea of a shared room, then private dorms are usually available at a higher rate. If you opt for a private room, you’ll get the best of both worlds: the privacy of a hotel coupled with the social environment of a hostel!

READ: 8 Benefits of Staying in a Hostel

Of course, you aren't obligated to speak to anyone, but there are certainly the possibilities of making new friends and seeing the city from a different perspective. Here are a few of our favorite hostel tips and tricks:

11 best tips for staying in hostels

1. book using the hostelworld app or similar apps and websites.

Doing research before booking is absolutely essential.

While there are a ton of apps you can use to find hostels, Hostelworld is the most reputable and user-friendly. All you have to do is type in your destination; then the search results are generated and ranked for location, cleanliness, and attention from the staff. You'll also see pictures and reviews from other users which will help you make your most informed decision.

There are many competitors to Hostelworld though, so feel free to try several different search engines, and use any service that suits you.

2. Search your hostel on YouTube

In the age of YouTube, you can get a preview of just about anything by searching keywords and hashtags. The most relatable advice for staying in hostels can be taken directly from the horse’s mouth. Sometimes it’s better to envision how your experience could be through the lens of a Youtuber’s commentary and shared content.

3. Say hello as soon as you walk into the room

This is an excellent opportunity to introduce yourself or receive an introduction should you desire it. If you get a sense that your roommates are open to conversation after greeting them, then tell them your name and see where the conversation goes. Who knows? Maybe you’ll make a new friend or receive some valuable travel advice. It doesn’t hurt to grow your network.

READ: How to Travel Alone as an Introvert

4. pack a rechargeable battery or choose a bed near an outlet.

Not all hostels provide outlets attached to your bed. Some hostels allow you to choose any bed in the dorm. If that’s the case, you’ll want to get first dibs on the charging station in your room. Otherwise, you’ll likely be leaving your phone unattended to charge while you rest. You could also avoid this all together by bringing a fully charged battery pack.

5. Carry a padlock with you and be careful with your belongings

Dorm-style rooms are efficient, but can leave your belongings exposed.

While hostels tend to procure a trusting environment, it’s only practical to protect your valuables from potential theft. Most rooms have storage lockers if not in the common area. It’s a good idea to ask reception about additional security options if you have valuables (like your passport, for example) that you would like to be supervised, as they sometimes provide lock boxes behind the reception desk.

6. Inspect your personal space and pay attention to detail

It's also a good habit to check your living space to ensure all the amenities included in your reservation are intact. Check light bulbs and plugs in your living space to be sure all is functioning properly. Pull back your sheets and check for bed bugs or other potential rodents.

You may want to unpack and make your space look “lived in” in the event some negligent person finds your reserved space more attractive. It could save you the awkward confrontation of politely asking someone to move.

7. Take advantage of the hostel’s amenities and events

It's extremely common for hostels to have common areas that include pool tables, games, bars, and sometimes a swimming pool. These are great places to hold conversations with your travel buddies or make new ones.

Check the hostel’s event schedule or ask reception, as most will offer free walking tours or pub crawls. These are excellent opportunities to mingle or experience something new!

READ: 9 Strategies for Making Friends While Traveling

8. use the hostel kitchen to cook.

Let's face it, we all need to eat but it can be expensive to eat out for every meal during your trip. It’s recommended to do some light grocery shopping to cook your meals. In some cases, you may meet friends to share ingredients and cook meals with. You might want to pack your own tupperware for leftovers.

9. Be considerate of your roommates and prepare to be disturbed

If you have more than three roommates, things can get hectic (and noisy).

In a perfect world, we are all considerate of each other’s rest in a shared room. Hostel dorms can get quite noisy at the most inappropriate times without much that we can do to control the environment . While you might consider leaving your things in one easy-to-find place before staying out late, someone else may do the contrary and wake you up in the early A.M.

Therefore, it would be wise to pack earplugs just in the case of alarms, loud talkers, or a symphony of snorers. You might also pack an eye mask in case any of your roomies decides to turn on the lights while you sleep.

10. Pack your own toiletries

While some hotels tend to provide basic toiletries, hostels usually do not. You should have all the necessities with you . Packing a towel is also recommended since not all hostels provide a free towel. Do not rely on the hostel’s cleanliness score—you should also bring your own shower slippers. No matter what the reviews say, it's better safe than sorry.

11. Expect the unexpected

Remember, not all experiences are equal. Anything can happen that could lead to a change of plans or you moving to a different hostel. Embrace it and prepare ahead of time to eliminate potential stress. Bring a list of alternative hostels in your relative area and have a back up plan just in case. Keep low expectations to leave room for them to be exceeded.

NEXT: Choosing the Right Travel Accommodations

Staying at a hostel is almost always an adventure.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a friend, hostels are a fun part of the experience.

Hostels make traveling to a new city that much more memorable. They provide the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and have different encounters versus your typical hotel stay.

Hopefully, you can be less overwhelmed about booking your hostel stay after reading some staying in a hostel tips. Whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, you’ll definitely find something positive to take away from your hostel experience.

Sign up for the GoAbroad Newsletter for more travel tips!

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12 Expert Tips on Picking a Good Hostel

Incredible hostels are always hard to come by. On the road, you’ll have more “this hostel was meh” moments than, “Wow! This hostel is amazing, I never want to leave!” moments.

Because hostels are more than just a physical place.

I’ve stayed in dumps where I had fun because of the people I met.

And I’ve been to amazing, beautiful hostels that bored me to death.

Hostels are an atmosphere . It’s a combination of the facilities, staff, amenities, and people that make a hostel incredible.

While you can’t always predict the people, you can increase your odds of landing in a hostel that you never want to leave.

Here is my advice on what to consider when you look for your next on hostel, based over a decade of experience staying in thousands of hostels all around the world:  

1. Cheaper is not always better

Budget travelers have a natural inclination to go with the cheapest thing around. However, don’t try to save a buck just to save a buck. Super cheap hostels are often unclean, the beds uncomfortable, the showers dirty, and the pillows thin. Pay an extra dollar or two for nicer and cleaner digs. Your body will thank you.

Remember, it’s not about being cheap — it’s about getting value!  

2. Get breakfast

One thing I hate about hosteling in Europe is that breakfast is often toast, eggs, and coffee. And it begins at 7am (and ends early too)! I’m not sure who the travelers are that they know, but I’ve never known any to wake up that early, even for a good breakfast.

Look for a place with a decent breakfast (i.e., more than toast) or at least one that begins and ends when people are actually awake (breakfasts that start around 8am usually go late). Breakfast is also a great way to load up on snacks for the rest of the day, thereby cutting down your food budget.

This isn’t a deal-breaker rule for me but I think it’s important for a hostel to have breakfast if they have the kitchen space for it.

Also, keep an eye out for places that have other free food perks, such as free coffee/tea all day or free dinners. Not only are these good for saving money but they make the hostel more social.  

3. Get a late check out

Never stay at a hostel with a checkout time before 10am. The best hostels have 11am checkout times, and the really good ones let you check out at noon. Sleep is valuable on the road because you’ll rarely get enough of it. Hostels with late checkout times understand this and are often more relaxed and chiller environments. There’s just something wrong about a hostel asking you to be packed and out so early in the morning.

On the flip side of this, I like hostels that have flexible check-ins. Many don’t let you check-in before 2 pm, but I like the ones that say “OK, the bed is ready. Come in now!” (I wish more hostels did that.)  

4. Push-button showers

I usually say no to push-button showers. They are annoying and often have no water pressure. The water turns off mid-soaping and it is a bit of a hassle to deal with. Historically, my rule has been that if a hostel has a push-button shower, I don’t stay there.

I don’t take long showers — and I don’t think you should either — because it’s important to conserve water but, man, a push-button shower is annoying!

As a general rule, keep an eye on the reviews for shower information. In certain parts of the world, many hostels don’t have hot water (or have limited hot water). Water pressure can also be an issue, so make sure you know what to expect!  

It’s surprising, but I’ve actually been in hostels that don’t have lockers — or they have them but they charge you for them. In this day and age, lockers should be standard. You should never pay for security. This is a deal-breaker for me, especially since I travel with electronics for working on the road. If you’re not sure about the locker situation, scan through the hostel’s reviews to see what people say. Always better to be safe than sorry!

This is a dealbreaker for me. No locker = no stay. Just don’t forget to bring a lock with you!  

6. Free Internet

While most hostels in the world have Wi-Fi these days, many still only have Wi-Fi in certain rooms (like the lobby or common room). Make sure you know what to expect before you book.

Also, as a general rule I would avoid using any free computer terminals as you can never be sure if there is any malware or harmful spyware on the computer. For basic surfing the web, sure, dive in! But I wouldn’t use them for things like email, banking, or social media.

If you’re connecting to free Wi-Fi with your own smartphone or laptop use a VPN to keep your data private (especially if you’re doing any online banking).  

Bars are not a deal-breaker, and there are a lot of wonderful hostels without them, but they make for a great place to socialize with other hostel guests. Usually, if a hostel has a bar, they put a strong emphasis on making sure the people staying there are having fun, interacting, and being festive.

If they don’t have a bar, make sure they host activities and events to get people together. Hostels are about a social atmosphere. If you want a place where no one interacts, stay at a hotel!  

8. Common area

If the hostel doesn’t have a bar, it should have a big common area (ideally it has both). The best hostels are the ones that give travelers a place to hang out and socialize with each other. Common areas facilitate interaction and help solo travelers have an easier time meeting people. The best hostels I’ve ever stayed at always had an amazing common area.

Keep an eye out for common rooms with board games, video games, a TV/movies/Netflix, instruments, and pool tables. Anything that can bring people together and help break the ice!  

9. Organized activities

Really good hostels also organize activities such as walking tours, yoga classes, bar crawls, BBQs, or anything else that gets people together. Check out what is offered before you book to make sure it’s the kind of place for you. Additionally, make sure you know which activities are free and which are paid.

Also, do they have free equipment to use like bikes, snorkeling gear, surfboards, etc.? Free equipment will save you money and make it easier to hang out with other travelers.

10. Knowledgeable staff

Employees make any business, and when I find the hostel staff to be helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly, I like that place a lot better. A hostel is like a home, and you want the people there to welcome you like a long-lost family member. I never understood why hostels don’t recognize that being a hostel is not about being a cheap place to stay, it’s about creating a warm environment.  

11. Location, location, location

Where a hostel is located will have a huge effect on your experience. If you have to spend an hour on public transportation just getting to and from your hostel every time you go into town, you’ll end up wasting a lot of your travel time. The best hostels are close to the action, so you can just step out your door and into an adventure. That, or the hostels are so remote that just staying there is an experience in and of itself. But just inconveniently on the outskirts of town? That’s just inconvenient.

Before you book, check out the address on Google Maps and see where it is in relation to the things you want to see and do. You didn’t travel around the world to spend your time commuting!  

12. Is the hostel for digitals nomad or backpackers?

As more and more people shift to remote work, hostels have started to accommodate long-term travelers who work on their laptops. If you’re a remote worker, these hostels are great places to stay as they have fast Wi-Fi and make it easy to connect and network with other digital nomads. However, if you’re not working online while traveling, avoid these hostels. Instead, stay at a hostel that caters to backpackers. It will be much more enjoyable and you’ll have an easier time meeting people.

A hostel doesn’t need to have every one of these things I listed, but it should have the majority of them. A hostel without the majority of these things doesn’t understand who its guests are or what they want. I get that a lot of different people come through hostels with a wide variety of needs. A hostel doesn’t need to be perfect. I’d like a clean kitchen, but it’s not a deal-breaker.

Dorm room doesn’t lock? That’s what a locker is for.

Hostel showers are always dirty, which is why I wear flip-flops in them. I’m not looking for a 5-star resort, just basic security, and comfort.

What makes hostels great are the people , and even the worst hostels will be great if you meet good people. But removing the people from the equation, I look for hostels that have some of the above qualities in them. Hostels that know what you want as a traveler are there to enhance your travel experience, not simply take money from you in exchange for a bed. I would rather stay at a place that is looking to make sure I have a good time.

And to find these places? I read up! When I’m picking hostels, I look at user reviews, pictures, amenities, and star ratings on sites like Hostelworld .

See what your fellow travelers say.

The consensus is going to be pretty spot on.

Pick the hostel that the majority of travelers agree is awesome. Nine times out of ten you won’t be disappointed!

SAVE UP TO 20% ON YOUR HOSTEL: HostelPass is a card that partners with vetted hostels throughout Europe, offering discounts of up to 20% off your booking. It’s a great way to save money while traveling Europe. I’ve always wanted something like this and so I’m glad it finally exists. Use code NOMADICMATT for 25% off!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• InsureMyTrip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Hostel Tips and Tricks: Staying in a Hostel for the First Time

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Finding the best hostel tips and tricks can be difficult when so many people are scared of them! I have stayed in over 30  in the US, Europe, and Mexico. Through those travels, I have experienced the good, the bad, and the questionable in hostels. 

But I still stay because I love the hostel atmosphere as a solo traveler. So if you’re reading this, I’m assuming you are ready to find the hostel travel tips for your next solo travel adventure too!  And there are some things you should know before booking. So here are my best hostel tips and tricks for those who are not scared and willing to do it solo.

Table of Contents

What is a hostel?

Before getting into hostel tips and tricks, let’s break down what a hostel is and is not. Because if you are staying in a hostel for the first time, you probably want to know what it is, right? Well, to put it simply, a hostel is an accommodation that provides a cheap and social alternative to a hotel. Solo travelers commonly use them, but families and couples stay in them too. Unlike a hotel or motel, hostels provide:

• Shared spaces for travelers to sleep and coexist (i.e., lounges, common areas, bathrooms, and dorms)
• Social activities and outings for travelers to connect
• Kitchen, laundry, and other amenities for short-term and long-term stays

How to pick the right hostel

Understanding how to find a hostel while traveling is not difficult! First for hostel tips and tricks, list the things you are looking for in a hostel. For example, if Wi-Fi is important, you must ensure that it is listed under the facilities on the hostel booking. Hostelworld is the #1 website to find the hostel right for you!

If you want to save money, look for a hostel with breakfast. For flashpackers traveling solo, look for a private room instead of a dorm one. Picking the right hostel means knowing how you want to travel. 

What luxuries, or lack thereof, are you willing to work with on your solo trip? That is the question you need to ask yourself when booking a hostel. They are not all created equal.

There is a little trick for solo travelers looking for party hostels. Whether on Hostelworld’s website or the hostel’s independent website, you can determine it’s a party hostel based on the photos. As you scroll, if a lot of people are partying in the images they use on their social media or website, it is probably a party hostel.

How to find safe hostels

As I say in my solo travel blog posts, the word “safe“ is relative. In my experience, hostels have been safe. You need a key card to enter hostels to get through the front door. Then you use that same key card to get into your room. 

You can also read the reviews on the hostel if you book on Hostelworld to know how other travelers rank the safety. Different hostels have 24-hour reception and security to monitor guests and visitors. All of this information should be listed on the hostel website. If it’s not, do not book that hostel.

“Do hostels have lockers?” is another popular question for hostel safety. Even the most rugged backpackers carry something of value. You can typically find whether or not a hostel offers lockers under the FAQs on their website. But, of course, remember to bring a lock too.

Hostel travel tips: understanding hostel types

Boutique hostels 

A boutique hostel should be your pick if you are a flashpacker instead of a backpacker. They still offer you the same atmosphere as a regular hostel. However, they are a bit more “aesthetic“ and can feel like a homey hotel more than a hostel. Some even have themes.

Boutique hostels are also more likely to serve remote workers and digital nomads. They offer co-working spaces and are a bit more luxurious than the average hostel. Boutique hostels can also be cleaner than party hostels or youth hostels.

Chain hostels

Hostel chains are the more prominent name hostels. You are more likely to find multiple locations for these hostels worldwide. Examples of hostel chains are HI USA , Hostelling International , Selina , Green Tortoise , Samesun , and Freehand . Hostel chains can also vary by continent!

Chain hostels can also be party hostels or any other type of hostel. For example, Selina Hostels are considered boutique hostels. On the other hand, Samesun Hostels lean more toward the party/super social hostels. Regardless, they are still chain hostels due to the number of locations. 

Youth hostels 

Most hostels began as youth hostels because they were geared towards younger travelers. They are meant for less experienced travelers who are exploring on a budget. Some youth hostels have it in their name for easy identification.  

There is a more apparent distinction between regular and youth hostels on continents such as Europe. However, this kind of distinction between hostels does not happen everywhere. For example, in the U.S, this is uncommon because hostel culture is not the norm. In other countries, you may need to do additional research to determine if there is an age limit between regular and youth hostels.

Party hostels 

These are what people think are the most traditional hostels. Party hostels are originally why people chose hostels to stay in as solo travelers. They are known for showing you a good time and having the liveliest atmosphere. Many youth hostels also double as party hostels.

Tips for staying in a hostel for the first time

Do not expect hotel quality 

Remember, these are hostel tips and tricks – not hotel tips! Though the quality of hostel amenities can vary, some being better than others, overall, do not expect hotel quality. For example, the sheets may not be Egyptian cotton, but fingers crossed they are comfortable. Set realistic expectations for yourself when you travel to a hostel for the first time.

Always bring a lock 

A hostel safety tip for your belongings is to bring a lock. If you are staying in a dorm, you must put your backpack in a locker. The best way to keep your valuables safe is by locking them. Hostels also sell locks at their front desk and other items that travelers often forget. 

Check to see if towels are included 

One of the first hostel travel tips I learned on my trip to London in 2015 was to bring a towel. Now, some hostels provide you with a towel. However, I would pack a microfiber towel just in case. Some hostel towels are not that soft, and a microfiber one always does the trick.

Pack ear plugs and a sleep mask

Ear plugs and a sleeping mask are hostel tips and tricks essentials. Hostel walls are thin and can even be loud, even if you are not staying at a party hostel. And not everyone is courteous about turning the light off and on when in a shared dorm. So both ear plugs and a sleeping mask are necessary for your stay. 

Be considerate of others 

When you book a hostel, you are committed to sharing space. As a solo traveler, you must be considerate of your mess and clean it up. Also, when entering and exiting a dorm room late at night or early in the morning, it is customary to not turn on the light if other hostelliers are sleeping.

Understand the different room types 

There are also other types of rooms and different kinds of hostels. A private room is for travelers who want space to themselves. A dorm room is a shared space of bunk beds with a shared bathroom nearby. Private rooms can also have shared or ensuite bathrooms.

With dorms, it is crucial to know how those rooms vary too. All-female and all-male dorms are standard options. Mixed dorms are also for those who do not mind a blend of sexes.

Ask about hostel discounts 

Hostels such as HIUSA have a membership that gives you discounts at their hostels. Other hostels offer you discounts at neighboring bars and restaurants affiliated with the hostel itself. Always ask about hostel discounts upfront on arrival! 

Read the most recent reviews

Hostels ownership can change often. Sometimes hostels transition ownership when it needs to be run better. Other times it just gets old, so who owns the hostel can also impact the quality. Therefore, reading the most recent reviews is necessary to prepare for your stay. The fresher the review, the better.

Communicate your check-in time 

When checking into your hostel, it is crucial to let the hostel staff know your arrival time. Some hostels have a 24-hour reception. Others need to see if you will be arriving super early in the morning or late at night.

They aren’t trying to control when you arrive. But instead, hostels want to ensure someone is there to check you in. However, it is becoming more and more popular to have a self-check-in system set up.

Hostel tips and tricks for solo travelers

Be open to talking to strangers 

One of my best hostel tips and tricks is to be social. You must be open to talking to new people when traveling solo and in hostels. No one says you have to be BFFs with them. But, if you don’t want to be alone during your solo trip, you will need to talk to someone you don’t know.

I’ve made many cool short-term friends from staying in hostels. For example, when I went on a solo trip to Mexico , I traveled with two of the girls from my hostel to Chichen Itza. And in Houston , I befriended the receptionist who gave me the best recommendations. 

Be approachable and genuine. You never know where your friendships will take you while traveling. So travel with an open mind to make friends with strangers! If you’re staying in hostels for the first time, this is the main tip to take into practice.

Participate in the hostel activities 

Hostel activities are there to bring the hostel community together. Do not be afraid to participate in said activities. They are free (most of the time) and a great way to get over your solo travel nerves. Putting yourself out there is the first step. You already booked the hostel, so why not?

Hang out in the lounge areas 

In hostels, you need to show people you are available to be friended! Sit casually in the lounges and common areas. If you are listening to music, have one headphone in and one out to hear what is happening. You have to show people you are open to talking to people. I’m also a big fan of eavesdropping on people’s conversations nearby or jumping in. 

For example, let’s say you are hanging out in the lounge area. You overhear an exciting conversation that seems cool but not too personal or private. So instead of waiting for them to invite you over, join them by saying, “Hey y’all, I hope you don’t mind, but I overheard you all talking, and it seems interesting. Can I sit here and join you?” If they say yes, you’re in!

Become friends with the receptionist 

Travelers should always be friendly to those around us, especially locals whose homes we visit and hostel staff. They are not just meant to serve us. Nevertheless, I’ve befriended many of the receptionists at my hostels. 

I also find that as a Black solo female traveler, I see many more people who look like me working in hostels rather than staying in them. Sometimes we went out to a bar or restaurant they recommended. Other times they have given me great tips on where to eat and what to do.

Just make sure you are genuine with your connections. Hostel staff has a job to do. You don’t want to get in the way of their work! But if they are open to befriending you, then go for it.

Hostels aren’t only for young people 

Even though youth hostels exist, hostels themselves are not just for young people. I stayed in a hostel where there were people older than me. While youth hostels are geared towards younger travelers, not every hostel is the same. You do not have to be in your 20s to stay in a hostel.

Benefits of staying in a hostel: hostels vs. Airbnbs & hotels

Hostels are cheaper 

The most significant benefit of staying in a hostel is that they are cheaper than hotels. When booking a shared dorm room, you can pay as little as $10 or $15. You get a bed, and that is essentially it. You may also get a locker to hold your stuff as well.

In the U.S, a dorm can cost more due to the cost of living and maintenance. Prices depend on the country and the hostel. Private rooms in U.S hostels can rival those of hotels.

The atmosphere is more welcoming

Due to the events and activities that hostels offer, I think they are better for social travelers. Some hostels are quieter and not party hostels. However, a part of the hostel experience is providing more community-style living and traveling. I think that adds to the more inviting and open atmosphere.

Co-working spaces are in hostels 

Even though hotels have desks in their rooms, hostels are more likely to have complete co-working spaces. Hotels seem more sterile and uncomfortable in this regard. Having a co-working space in a hostel is great for solo travelers working remotely.

For most hostels, you rent a hot desk in the hostel to co-work. Co-Live programs such as Selina include these options. Though it is unconfirmed, I am pretty sure this is one of the ways hostels make money to balance out the price of rooms.

The amenities rival hotels and Airbnbs

Hostels and their amenities have improved significantly over the years. While there are hostels that lean more backpacker than flashpacker, many have changed. For example, many hostels are now built with adjoining bars or cafes similar to hotels. They also offer laundry rooms, kitchens, and working areas similar to Airbnbs. 

If you book boutique hostels such as Selina, I’d argue that they feel more like hotels. For example, on my solo trip to New Orleans , I stayed in a Selina hostel and one through HIUSA. Both felt more like hotels because 1) I booked the private rooms, and 2) they seemed to care more about cleanliness. 

Hostels are more equipped for long-term stays 

Though many gravitate towards Airbnbs for long-term stays, hostels are slowly creeping up on the game. So if you are staying for a few weeks or months in a destination, consider a hostel. Not only can you opt for a private room, but lots of hostels also provide in-house laundry, gym or yoga mats, and a kitchen. Hotels don’t offer that, and Airbnbs can, but their fees make it more expensive.

Do keep in mind that some hostels have a 14 to the 21-day-a-year limit. Therefore, if you stay in one hostel for that long within a calendar year, you may have to wait for a calendar to return. Consider doing the Selina Co-Live Program , which is more equipped for long-term hostel travel within their network.

Hostel discounts and free activities 

Hostels love hosting activities for solo travelers to meet each other. Hostels often organize events compared to hotels that may set you up with a tour operator. They can be elaborate as day trips or small get-to-know-you events like ice cream socials. Bar crawls are one of the most common hostel activities. 

Some hostels have hookups with other tour operators. I would recommend asking your hostel receptionist for tour guides and activities if they did not organize any. Hostels can also have discounts for these tours and even restaurants.  

Easy to meet people as a solo traveler

The main reason solo travelers stay in hostels is to meet other people on their trip. As a Black solo female traveler, I find it easier to mingle in a hostel than in an Airbnb or hotel. I think hotels lack the community of hostels, and Airbnbs can be outright isolating if you do not mingle naturally.

As someone who can be socially awkward, hostels are ideal for solo travelers like me. Hostels are curated spaces to meet people as you travel solo. Hostels provide you with that community if you want social interaction on a solo trip with the activities, events, and hosted dinners.

Disadvantages of staying in a hostel

Cleanliness can vary 

Sometimes a lower price point means lower quality of cleanliness. Hostels, in my opinion, have changed drastically over the past few years for the better. But this is where reading the reviews is very important to hear what other travelers have to say! 

There are no hostel rewards programs 

I’m all for saving money! But one of the most significant disadvantages of staying in hostels is the lack of rewards programs like hotels. Though the payoff is that hostels are typically cheaper than hotels, it would be nice to rack up points in the ways you can rack up miles. Maybe one day, right?

Hostels can get loud for light sleepers

The walls can be thin in hostels. For those solo travelers who are light sleepers, you will need earplugs. Many hostels do have quiet hours. But sometimes, they are not as enforced as they should be. So get prepared and pack what you need.

Dorm life is not for everyone 

Hostels are known for offering dorms. Depending on the hostel, you can be in a four- to ten-person (or more) dorm. But they are not for every type of traveler, which is ok.

This is where private rooms come in! If you want to stay in a hostel but do not want to stay in a dorm, then choose a hostel with private rooms. You get the best of hostel life without sharing sleeping space. However, do be advised that some private rooms still have shared bathrooms.

The final dos and don’ts of hostels

Staying in a hostel for the first time is a learning experience no matter how many hostel tips and tricks you read. The more you do it, the more you learn about yourself and others. If you remember nothing from this post, hold these dos and don’ts of hostels as a solo female traveler: 

• Do be social and adventurous but always trust your gut
• Do not touch what is not yours (food, people, things, or otherwise)
• Do be courteous to everyone in the space (staff and roommates in dorms), especially if you get in early in the morning or late at night
• Do not leave a mess in your room or the common areas for someone else to clean up
• Do communicate with your hostel about check-in and check-out times

I can give you all the hostel tips and tricks in the world. But I promise you there is nothing like experiencing one for yourself. So take these hostel travel tips and book your adventure! I promise your first time staying in a hostel will be memorable regardless. Report back and let me know how it went in the comments below!

Ready to book a hostel? Here is a list of things you need to know when booking.

Thanks for reading – PIN this post to share and save for later!

Sojourner White is a remote social worker, train travel queen, and award-winning travel journalist. Hailing from Milwaukee, Wisconsin she has been a digital nomad and called both Spain and Germany home. Through her platform Sojournies, she helps 9-5ers fulfill their career goals and bucket list dreams to find freedom and flexibility outside the office. Sojourner has been featured in Buzzfeed, PopSugar, The Matador Network, HuffPost, and Thrillist and written for Travel + Leisure, USA Today, Fodor’s, Insider, Lonely Planet, Viator, and more.

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Guide to hostels in europe | how to pick the perfect hostel & other hostel tips.

Everything you need to know about staying in hostels while traveling through Europe.

Hostels & Lodging

Hostels are possibly the best type of accommodation for backpacking/budget travelers in Europe.

• They’re inexpensive.
• They’re located in every European city.
• They’re full of other young travelers.
• They make it easy to meet other travelers.
• There are a lot of excellent hostels since competition between hostels has grown considerably over the past 10-15 years.

Unfortunately, hostels are pretty uncommon in the US, so many Americans are totally clueless about them and have a lot of misconceptions (I know I did). This complete guide to hostels in Europe will cover everything from hostel basics to tips for choosing a great hostel.

Backpacking Through Europe? Check out our in-depth guide to The Best Travel Backpacks for tips on choosing your perfect bag. You might also want to read our Europe Packing List for Men and Europe Packing List for Women .

Hostels 101: Everything You Need To Know About Hostels in Europe

Curious about hostels? Keep reading.

What Is A Hostel?

Hostels—sometimes called “youth hostels”—are the bastions of budget travelers. They are similar to hotels except for the rooms (dorms) are filled with enough bunk beds to house anywhere between 4-40 people. In a hostel, you only rent the bed so you’ll be sharing the room with a bunch of fellow travelers. Obviously, privacy is limited, but the low cost and thriving social scene more than make up for the negatives.

Many hostels also have female-only rooms but most rooms are unisex.

We suggest poking around Hostelworld to get a good sense of what kinds of hostels are out there.

How Much Do Hostels Cost?

The nightly price to book a hostel bed starts around $15+/night (in Eastern Europe) and $30+/night (in big cities in Western Europe)—but don’t be surprised if you see beds going for $60+ night in popular cities.

The price depends on the size of the room (the cheapest beds are in the rooms with the most people), the location of the hostel, the amenities, the competition from other hostels in town, the inventory left, and a few other factors.

I think I usually paid an average of $40/night in Western Europe ($15/night in Eastern Europe). Keep in mind that I usually  opted for the cheapest room available.

For reference, a private room with 2 beds can cost anywhere from $70 to $150+/night.

Reasons To Stay In A Hostel

Hosteling is the best way to meet tons of interesting people from all over the world. You’re surrounded by like-minded travelers who all share a love of adventure and a love for having fun. It also makes meeting other travelers super easy — which is extra great for solo travelers.

Hostels are also usually located in the heart of the city, so you’re close to all the action.

And hostels are cheap — so you can travel even longer.

Who Stays In Hostels?

There is a wide range of people who stay at hostels.

Most hostel-goers are young travelers between 18-30 (some hostels only allow guests between 18-35 years old). But I’ve met a 70-year-old Australian who was traveling for 6 months and I also see a lot of families traveling together.

Naturally, hostels attract a very international crowd so you’ll be surrounded by people from all over the world.

From my experience, there are always lots of Australians and Kiwis who are traveling for 9+ months at a time. There are quite a few Americans who come over for 2-3 weeks, or who are studying abroad somewhere in Europe. I’ve met a handful of South Africans and a few French.

There will also usually be a handful of people who live in the hostel for a couple of months at a time — these are usually students doing short-term studies for jobs.

Hostels are also popular for European bachelor/bachelorette party groups — which can honestly get really annoying since they tend to get obnoxiously drunk. That’s why I usually look for hostels that don’t allow these groups to book (many will state this in the hostel rules).

Features Of The Best European Hostels

There are a lot of great hostels in Europe, and there are just as many terrible ones. I’ve compiled a list of features that you should keep in mind when searching for a hostel.

24/7 Checkin/Reception

Every hostel has a check-in desk. This is where you pay, get your key, and receive all the important information about the hostel. Be sure to ask for a map. Some hostels don’t have 24/7 reception, and it usually isn’t a big deal… until your train/flight is late and you try to check in after reception closes. Then you’re stuck looking for a new hostel.

TIP: The people at the front desk usually have the best idea about what is going on in the city. They’ll be able to recommend the best things to do/see around town. It is helpful to give them an idea of what you’re interested in doing. Questions like “what are some cheap restaurants?” or “I’m looking for a fun nightclub, any recommendations?” are a lot better than “So… what things should I do here?” The point is: don’t expect them to plan your stay for you. Or you can check out our Europe City Guides !

Dorm Rooms & Private Rooms

There are generally two types of rooms available in hostels — standard dorm rooms and private rooms.

Hostel dorm rooms are almost universally filled with multiple squeaky bunk beds (I’ve even seen three-level bunks). Dorms can range from small rooms with two bunk beds to large rooms with 20+ bunks. From my experience, the most common rooms usually have 4-6 bunks.

In general, the cheapest rooms will have the most amount of people so expect to pay more if you want a room with fewer strangers (and snorers).

Most dorm rooms are unisex but plenty of hostels offer female-only rooms.

Many hostels are now starting to offer private rooms for people who want more privacy but still want the hostel vibe. Most of the time private rooms are meant for one or two people. However, we’ve seen a lot of private rooms for groups of 3-4 people (these are for families or friends traveling together).

Security and Lockers

Each hostel has its own version of security. Some require a key/buzzer/secret knock to enter the building. Most hostels at least require a key to enter the dorm rooms.

Most dorm rooms have lockers . These are usually located under the bed but some rooms have cabinet-style lockers. You normally have to supply your own lock. I just lock up any valuables and leave my backpack on the bed.  I’ve never had any problems with theft — besides, no one wants a bunch of dirty clothes.

The hostel will probably have a room for storing your luggage for when you first arrive (if your room isn’t ready) and when you’re checking out. These rooms can range from a locked storage room monitored by CCTV to an open area on the floor with a pile of bags.

Showers/Toilets

Hostel bathrooms can be super nice or really terrible. Each hostel has a different setup when it comes to showers and toilets. Most of the time each room has its own bathroom. This means the room of 8 people could be sharing one small bathroom.

Some have large community-style bathrooms with a few sinks and multiple private shower stalls.

Some showers require you to push a stupid button every 30 seconds for the water to work and some are operated by pulling on a chain.

I’ve even stayed in a hostel where you had to walk through the kitchen and through the outdoor courtyard (not fun in the winter) to get to the shower.

The absolute worst is the shower/bathroom combo. I want to dance on the grave of the person who thought this was a good idea. Basically, there is no separation between the shower, toilet, and sink. The entire room gets wet and this is a pain in the ass trying to get dressed when every inch of the room is covered in water.

Lounge/Chill Out Room

The better hostels have comfy lounge rooms where people can go chill out and meet other travelers. A lot of these rooms will have a big TV (usually with satellite channels), DVD player with a bunch of DVDs, books, board games, and big couches (often adorned with hungover Australians). This is a great place to meet other people and exchange travel stories. This is also where you’ll find all the people glued to their smartphones (I’m plenty guilty of this).

Some hostels even have cool rooftop bars/terraces that always attract people so it’s a great place to meet other travelers.

Kitchen & Dining Room

A hostel with a nice kitchen is a godsend. I try to exclusively book hostels with kitchens — even if it costs a little more — because you can save so much money by cooking your own meals. Hostels with nice kitchens are also much more social, as it gives people a chance to really interact with each other.

TIP: A great way to make friends is to organize a meal and have everyone chip in a few euros. I think I met all my best travel friends in the kitchen.

The best kitchens have everything you’ll need to cook a meal; stoves, ovens, microwaves, refrigerators, sinks, utensils, cups, plates, and pretty much anything else you might need. Don’t expect any kitchen to be super clean because they get a lot of use, and the hostel staff usually don’t enjoy cleaning kitchens.

Breakfast (Hopefully Free)

A lot of hostels have free breakfast. Don’t get too excited because it’s usually pretty meager — but it’s free, so whatever. Just about every breakfast consists of generic cornflakes, white or wheat bread (w/ jam, peanut butter, some yummy chocolate spread, & butter), orange juice, milk (room temperature), tea, and coffee. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a croissant. I’ve been to a few hostels where the breakfast isn’t free and it usually costs a lot for what you get.

If you want a hostel with a lively social scene, then you’ll want to find one with a bar. The beer prices at hostel bars are usually pretty affordable and sometimes it’s the best deal in town. And drinking in the hostel is safer than wandering the streets drunk after a big night out.

The bars do get a bit noisy, so you might want to book a hostel without a bar if you’re a light sleeper — or don’t enjoy drunk people.

The Hostel’s Vibe

Every hostel will have its own personality so you’ll want to read the reviews to get a sense of what kind of hostel it is.

For example, some hostels have a party atmosphere (complete with a bar) so it’s great for meeting people but it probably isn’t a great place for light sleepers. Check out my guide to the best party cities in Europe if you want to find places with party hostels.

Other hostels feel more like a hotel and sometimes there isn’t much of a community feel so it’s not a great place to meet other travelers.

And other hostels have a lively atmosphere without turning into a party.

Free WiFi/Computers

Free WiFi is pretty much standard in hostels but check the reviews because WiFi can often be spotty in a lot of hostels — especially in the rooms.

A lot of hostels will also have computers with internet access but they usually charge you to use them.

Washing Machines

If you’re a long-term traveler, a washing machine is a great luxury. Hand washing your stinky socks (and trust me, your socks will stink) is never fun, so having a machine do all the work is a miracle.

However, most hostels don’t have washing machines so don’t expect this.

Good Location

The hostel’s location can have a huge impact on your hostel experience. It is much more convenient if you’re located near the sights/bars/clubs/grocery stores/public transportation/McDonald’s.

That said, you can often save money by staying in a hostel that’s located outside the city or at least away from the city center.

Some hostels really go above and beyond to make sure their guest have a great time. I’ve seen free group dinners, a free welcome drink, free walking tours and pub crawls, concerts, yoga, happy hours, and more.

Boutique Hostels

The latest development in the budget accommodation world is boutique hostels — which feel more like funky boutique hotels than a hostel. These hostels are generally a little more expensive than traditional hostels but they often have higher-end amenities like nicer kitchens, workout rooms, nicer beds/furniture, and other more.

How to Find A Great Hostel In Europe

Thanks to the Internet, booking a hostel is incredibly easy. Sites like Hostelworld  allow you to read past reviews of other travelers so you can judge the quality of the hostel before you book it.

I book all most hostels through Hostelworld because they are the largest site and they have the most hostel reviews/community base — and the site is super easy to use. Simply enter your travel information and the site will give you a list of results. Each hostel is rated by fellow travelers, so you’ll get a pretty good idea if the hostel is worth booking. You can also see videos, pictures, amenities, and directions. You book your reservation by paying 10% of the total payment (by credit/debit card), and then you pay the remainder of the payment directly to the hostel when you arrive. It’s super easy.

Hostelworld is also nice because it allows you to filter your search results based on price or rating. I usually look at the highest-rated hostels first and then find one in my price range. But you can always filter based on price alone if you’re on a strict budget.

By doing a little homework, you can find some truly amazing hostels.

More Helpful Hostel Tips

• Write detailed instructions on how to get to the hostel from the train station/airport/wherever you’re coming from. Getting lost sucks and some hostels can be tough to find.
• Book hostels ahead of time during the busy season —  especially in the summer because they can sell out.
• Bring earplugs and a sleeping mask. There is bound to be one person who snores super loud when you’re in a room of 12 people. He is probably the same jerk who turns the lights on when returning to the room at 4 am. He’ll probably brush his teeth and leave the water running the entire time too. And I bet he hates puppies.
• Renting a towel from a hostel is a lot better than carrying your own stinky wet towel around in your backpack. Not all hostels offer towels for rent so I suggest buying a special quick-drying travel towel just in case.
• I always like to book hostels that only allow people 18+. Large school groups often rent hostels for school trips. 50 middle schoolers running around isn’t remotely enjoyable. I also like hostels that don’t rent to bachelor/stag parties as these groups often get belligerently drunk.
• Read the hostel’s policies. Some only accept cash, some have a lockout period (usually between 11 am-4 pm) for cleaning, and some even have a curfew.
• Some hostels charge for linens. I’ve never encountered this but I have had to pay a refundable deposit on sheets.
• I’ve never met a front desk worker who didn’t speak English fairly well.
• Many hostels have pub crawls and the guides know where to get the cheapest drinks. This is a great way to meet other travelers.
• If you want to meet other travelers then you might have to make an effort to talk to other people.

The Best Hostels in Europe By City

Here are a few of the best hostels in the most-visited cities in Europe:

• Best Party Hostels in Amsterdam
• Best Party Hostels in Barcelona
• Best Party Hostels in Berlin
• Best Hostels in  Brussels
• Best Hostels in  Budapest
• Best Hostels in  Copenhagen
• Best Hostels in  Dublin
• Best Hostels in  Edinburgh
• Best Hostels in  Florence
• Best Hostels in  Hamburg
• Best Hostels in  London
• Best Hostels in  Madrid
• Best Hostels in  Milan
• Best Hostels in  Munich
• Best Hostels in  Nice
• Best Hostels in  Paris
• Best Hostels in  Porto
• Best Hostels in  Prague
• Best Hostels in  Reykjavik
• Best Hostels in  Rome
• Best Hostels in  Seville
• Best Hostels in  Split
• Best Hostels in  Venice
• Best Hostels in  Vienna
• Best Hostels in  New York City

Hostel Packing Advice

Staying in hostels poses a few unique packing challenges so I’m here to help by recommending a few of my must-have items. Check out my Hostel Packing List for the full list but below are the absolute necessities:

• Padlock For Your Hostel Locker: Master Lock 1505D ,  Master Lock 1535DWD , &  Master Lock 1500iD are all affordable options on Amazon.
• Hanging Toiletry Case For Tiny Hostel Bathrooms: AmazonBasics Hanging Travel Toiletry Kit Bag and emissary Large Hanging Toiletry Bag are two cheap options on Amazon.
• Quick Drying Travel Towel : I like the Sea to Summit Drylite Towel & Rainleaf Microfiber Towel because they’re only around $25.
• Eyemasks and Earplugs for Loud Roommates: These Flents Protechs Sleep Ear Plugs are designed for sleep.
• Prepaid SIM Card W/ Mobile Data: Having high-speed mobile data is a requirement these days, so I recommend buying a SIM card before arriving in Europe. Here’s my guide to the best Prepaid SIM Cards for Europe and the Best eSIM Data Plans for Europe .
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Hostel packing list: Everything you need while staying in a hostel

Are you planning on staying in a hostel? Here is the ultimate hostel packing list plus what you don’t need to pack for a hostel stay

Hostels are completely different from hotels. For full-time or seasoned  travelers on a budget , sleeping in hostels might not be new to you. But to  first-time travelers , sleeping at hostels can be a bit challenging more so if you don’t know what to carry.

So this post is here to address all the things you need to pack while staying in a hostel.

Disclaimer*   This post contains affiliate links and I might earn a small commission if you purchase through them but with no extra cost to you. This commission helps to keep the lights on here. You can read our  privacy policy  for more details. Thank you for supporting the Adventurous feet

Unlike hotels, there are so many things that hostels don’t provide, so here is the ultimate hostel packing list .

But before you go, check out these tips for staying in the hostel for the first time . This post will show you all the dos and don’ts of staying in a hostel and the proper hostel etiquette.

Book your perfect hostel stay with  Hostelworld  for the best rates on hostels around the world. 

Psst…  Before traveling anywhere, make sure that you have Travel Insurance! I always use  World Nomads  on all my trips and I am happy to recommend it to you. You can easily  request a quote from World Nomads from here for FREE !

Must have Travel essentials while staying in a hostel.

1. Light-weight Microfiber travel towel

Most hostels don’t provide towels so it’s better to carry your own as it’s one of the things needed for hostel.

Do not just carry any towel but one that can dry fast. The advantage of carrying a microfibre travel towel over the ordinary towel is that it is lightweight, dries quickly, and is durable and absorbent.

One of the best microfibre travel towels I recommend is  this RainLeaf travel towel  as it possesses all the above qualities, comes with a bag, and is durable at the same time.

You can also check out this article to choose the  best quick dry towel  for your hostel stay.

2. Travel Toiletries

Unlike hotels, you’re likely not to find toiletries at the hostel. Don’t be shocked to go to the bathroom and not find shampoo or soap. So to avoid the shock, add toiletries to your hostel checklist.

Here are some of the items that should be in your travel toiletry kit.

• Shower gel/ Soap
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Hair Brush or comb
• Perfume and Spray

I recommend getting this TSA transparent waterproof travel toiletry bag  that can accommodate all your toiletries but is not too big to take up all the space in your backpack.

3. Padlocks

Keeping your property secure is paramount and since it’s a shared space with different people from all walks of life, you don’t want to take chances on the safety of your own property.

I mean people are actually nice in hostels but it’s better to be safe than sorry.

I’ve actually found that it’s better to carry  TSA combination locks like these ones  rather than the key locks as there are higher chances of losing the key while you wander around the place.

Heading out for a road trip? Check out this  Road trip packing list  to know everything you’ll need plus some fun  road trip games to play  to kill boredom.

4. Eye Mask/ Sleeping Mask

Your sleeping time is likely to be different from the “lights out time” at the hostel.

And for many people, it’s pretty hard to fall asleep with lights on, so an eye mask will come in handy.

This not only works at hostels but also on long flights . I’ve found this molded sleeping mask  better as it is more comfortable compared to others and it blocks out all the light while you sleep.

5. Earplugs

There are always those people that stay up late talking with others ( yeah I am a bit guilty). That’s even better, but imagine sleeping next to someone who snores — the pain can be real!! 

OR Sometimes, the hostel is located right next to the busiest street in town.

So to avoid losing sleep over “loud” hostel mates or busy streets, carry your earplugs to have a good silent night’s sleep. I recommend carrying these   noise-cancellation earplugs .

7. Flipflops/Slippers

In hostels, you should expect public showers, so showering barefooted shouldn’t even be an option.

These  shower slippers  are some of my favorites when it comes to staying at a hostel. They are also perfect for the beach.

Related post:  The only packing list for a beach vacation

8. Packing cubes

Packing cubes are a must-have while packing for a stay at a hostel as they help you be more organized and pack light .

And instead of having to empty your backpack every time you need something, packing cubes can easily help you locate whatever you’re looking for. These AmazonBasics  are some of the best packing cubes I know if you want a 4 piece set.

But if you need more packing cubes, then this 5-set piece or this 6-set piece will be perfect as you pack for a hostel.

9. Torch/ Head flashlight

This is a must-carry item while packing for a hostel. In some hotels electricity is not guarded 24/7, you don’t want to be caught up in total darkness when that happens.

Or you don’t want to be “that person” that switches on the light when everyone else is sleeping in the wee hours of the night.

So make sure that you add a headlamp like this to your hostel packing list.

More packing lists to help you pack better The complete packing list for Africa Things to pack for a weekend trip Egypt packing list + what to wear Paris packing list in winter What to pack for Europe in winter Carry on essentials for long flights

10. Laundry bag

Most hostels don’t offer laundry services and if they do, it will be at a  cost.

And since you’re  traveling on a budget , the main goal is to minimize expenditure, so carry  this small laundry bag to separate your clean clothes from the dirty ones until when you’re able to wash them or get someone to do it for you at a cheaper cost.

10. Noise-canceling earphones

Yes, it might get a bit noisy and sometimes you just want to concentrate on your own stuff, these noise-canceling earphones  will help you with that.

11. Universal travel adapter

One of the things required in a hostel is an adapter but since different countries have different electric sockets, it also means various hostels have different electric plugs.

So carry this universal travel adapter  to avoid buying a new adapter for each country you travel to.

Related post: Best backpacking tips for beginners

12. Power bank

Wondering what to bring to a hostel? then a power bank is an absolute must, whether you’re staying at a hotel or a hostel.

This is one of the best power banks  to carry when traveling anywhere.

13. Amazon Kindle

Hostels are a great way of meeting people while traveling but can also be challenging if you’re an introvert who prefers to be alone instead of making new friends.

So if you want to kill boredom while at a hostel, then I recommend carrying a kindle paperwhite to read your favorite books.

This is one of the  best seller kindles  on Amazon. You can also sign up for Kindle Unlimited reading on any of your devices. Not yet

sure how it works, you can  signup for a monthly free trial  before you can commit.

14. First Aid Kit

This is perhaps the number one thing most people are likely to forget while packing for a hostel stay yet it’s very important since accidents can happen anywhere.

The first aid kit should contain all the medication you might need depending on the state of your health but items like plasters, blister plasters, and painkillers shouldn’t miss in your kit regardless of whether you’re perfectly healthy or not.

You can grab yourself this first aid kit if you don’t have one yet as it is small enough to fit in your backpack but it all has all the things needed for a first medical response.

Related post:  Practical camping tips and essentials for beginners

15. Sleeping bag liner

A sleeping bag liner is one of the most useful hostel essentials but also one of the most underlooked items while packing for a hostel.

We can not overlook the fact that some of the budget hostels are not the cleanest and some might even have bedbugs.

For travelers, the best sleeping bag liner is the rectangular one as it helps separate you from the bedding of the hostel if you’re not sure of the cleanliness of the sheets.

There are so many sleeping bag liners on the market but I recommend this silk rectangular bag liner as it is very lightweight, warm during the cold weather but also cooler during the warm weather.

16. A proper/ functional backpack

Being a backpacker is all about traveling light, cheap, and being able to fit all your items in one sizable backpack.

There is no point in knowing what to pack for a hostel if you don’t have where to pack everything.

The highly recommended backpack among backpackers is this Osprey Atmos AG 65 backpack . It’s not only fancy, but also very durable, functional, and sizable, and also comes in both women’s and men’s designs.

Now that you know what to pack for your hostel stay plus all the things required for a hostel, there are some things you perhaps thought you needed to pack but actually don’t need. So here is what not to pack for a hostel.

Want to enjoy unlimited free 2-day shipping of your Amazon products? Sign up for  Amazon Prime free 30-day trial.

What not to pack for a hostel

1. A sleeping bag

By all means, you won’t need a sleeping bag at a hostel. However cheap or out of shape the hostel you’re planning to stay at might be, they will provide a bed and a mattress.  So don’t use up all the space in your backpack by packing a sleeping bag.

2. Beddings

Just like the sleeping bag, beddings are absolutely unnecessary to pack for a hostel. Hostels do provide bedsheets and bedcovers/blankets. So carrying them would be a waste of space.

Unless your plan is to camp outside the hostel (which is unlikely), a tent would be extremely useless to pack for a hostel.

4. A bad attitude (LOL)

I am not saying that you have a bad attitude but I am just saying that if you have one of those days where you get grumpy and everything (or all days), it might be better for you and everyone else to exercise being nice since you’ll be sharing space with many other people that might not be very welcoming to someone with a bad attitude.

Final Thoughts on the Hostel Essentials to Pack

There you have it, backpackers, this is literally everything you need while staying at a hostel. You can add other things that might be important to you as an individual but this is the essential hostel packing list.

Just remember not to overpack (I am gradually learning how to pack less), be friendly at the hostel, and have fun while doing so.

NEVER TRAVEL ANYWHERE WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip is to forego Travel Insurance! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s  NOT  that expensive! There are many Travel Insurance companies out there, but I love  World Nomads ! They cover almost every single thing you might face/do while traveling, it is easy to request a quote, and if you ever need to claim, the claiming process is not a rat race! I’ve used World Nomads on all my trips, and I am confident and happy to recommend it to you! No worries if you’re not yet ready to book your trip, you can request a  free quote from World Nomads here  and see if it suits your personal needs!

More travel tips to help you plan your trip

• Best backpacking hacks you need to know
• Best hiking tips for beginners
• Best camping tips for beginners
• Things to do before traveling abroad
• Things not to do when you travel
• Airport hacks you need to know
• Things to do at the airport on a long layover
• How to survive a long flight
• Romantic things to do at home if you can’t travel

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“Comprehensive and practical, this hostel packing list covers all essentials for a comfortable stay. Perfect for travelers seeking efficiency!”

Thank you so much I as having a hard time thinking of all the things needed because I didn’t want to forget anything, this was certainly helpful ❤❤❤

I am glad you found the article helpful.

All this list is very helpful to move away from home

Thank you Sardar, I am glad you found this hostel packing list helpful.

I am a beginner for hostel Life. I am really don’t the simple thing about hostel . Thank you so much for your help. My wholehearted thanking wishes!!!!

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Hostel Tips , Packing Lists , Travel Gear

Hostel essentials – your must-have hostel packing list.

I love staying in hostels.  They are a fabulous way to travel the world for cheap, you meet interesting people, make lifelong friends and have the time of your life.  If you will be staying in a hostel on your next trip and are wondering what to pack for a hostel stay, I’ve got this list of hostel essentials for you!  This ultimate hostel packing list has everything you need for a hostel stay (plus some tips on what NOT to pack) so you can have a fabulous hostel experience.  

This website contains sponsored and affiliate links. If you click through the links on this page and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support. [Learn more]

Packing Tips for a Hostel Stay

If you’re on a backpacking trip, then packing light really is the golden rule.  While it is tempting to bring everything with you and cram it into the biggest suitcase you can find, lugging around heavy luggage gets real old real fast. 

So, only plan to pack the absolute essentials for a hostel stay, then you can add in a couple of extra items that might make your stay more comfortable. A backpacking trip packing list is going to be longer than a shorter weekend hostel stay, and that’s ok, just try not to overdo it.

Packing cubes can help you to keep organised, and make sure you practise packing before you set off so you know what can fit in – and what you can realistically carry!  

Get a Decent Backpack (or Suitcase)

When you’re travelling around I find I usually prefer a backpack for long trips and more “off the beaten path” destinations and a small roller suitcase for short city breaks. 

Yes, shock horror I just said I use a suitcase for some trips!  In cities with decent paved walkways and airports, I much prefer wheeling a small suitcase with a small daypack on my back instead of having to carry everything on my back.

However, for long backpacking trips, when you might be taking buses instead of planes, and have to check in your luggage, a backpack really is the way to go.  In that case, it is easier (if not very enjoyable) to have everything on your back instead of attempting to drag a giant suitcase all around cobbled streets and dirt roads.

Osprey Backpacks are THE name in backpacker & travel backpacks.  They make excellent quality backpacks for travel, hiking and a whole range of other activities so you can choose the right backpack for you.

Check-In Backpacks

The Osprey Fairview 70 Women’s Travel Backpack is a firm favourite for backpackers and it comes with a d etachable daypack with a built-in laptop and tablet sleeve.  Carry them separately when you’re flying so you can check in the larger section and take the day pack on the flight as carry-on, or attach them so you can keep your hands completely free when you’re on the move.

The Fairview 55 is basically the same design but with a smaller capacity, so better for carrying around if you can pack that bit lighter.  The Farpoint 55 and Farpoint 70 are men’s travel backpack equivalents.  

Knowing some people’s preference for wheels, Osprey also has a selection of wheeled cases in various sizes so you can choose whatever style suits you best.  Coming back to my first tip, if you have packed light, your luggage will be lighter and much easier to carry no matter what it is!

Carry-on Backpacks 

Smaller backpacks with a maximum of 40-litres capacity are great for taking as carry-on only if you can fit in everything you need.  They are perfect for short trips or ultra-lite backpacking adventures and can be combined with a day pack as a personal carry-on item if you need some extra space.

I love the Tortuga Travel Backpack 40l which is the most comfortable backpack I’ve ever worn, thanks to the adjustable shoulder straps which you can alter to suit your height, and the padded hip belt which can take up to 80% of the weight off your shoulders.  

You can read my full review of the Tortuga backpack here , or check out the Tortuga website for the full specs and other reviews.

I also have the 40 litre Osprey Fairview pack for women which I have used as my main luggage for weekends away, and I have also used as it a carry-on when checking in a larger suitcase for longer trips.  The Fairview is designed for women, and the men’s equivalent is the 40 litre Farpoint which is just as good.

These travel backpacks meet carry-on restrictions for most airlines, and are flexible if you don’t overfill them, so they will squeeze into luggage racks.  They all have a separate laptop sleeve, supporting hipbelt and open fully so you can easily access anything you’ve packed. 

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks

If you’re looking for a cheap travel backpack for carry-on, the Asenlin 40 litre travel backpack is a unisex design, and gets excellent reviews.  It opens fully like the Osprey backpacks, has a 17-inch laptop compartment, is water-resistant and comes with a set of 3 packing cubes included.

Fairview 40 Women’s

Travel Backpack 40l

40l Travel Backpack

Bring an Open Mind

I truly believe that you get out of an experience whatever you put in, so if you arrive at a hostel and are unsociable and close-minded you probably won’t have a great time.  Be friendly, say hi to people and smile – that is the first step.  

Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with people – asking for travel tips about where to go or where to eat is a great ice-breaker, and might even get you an invite for dinner!

Travel Safely

• Leave valuables at home and don't keep all your money and credit cards in one place.  I love hidden pocket clothing like this travel scarf for stashing my cash and passport or a belt with a hidden pocket.   Read more about how to hide money while travelling .
• Bring a water bottle with a built-in filter so you can safely drink water from any fresh water source while saving money and reducing plastic use.  I take my Water-to-Go bottle with me everywhere!
• Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel.  I always buy travel insurance and was very glad I had insurance when I had my laptop and passport stolen in Ecuador!  Consider getting insurance for your trip to cover things like trip cancellation, emergency medical, lost luggage and stolen items, as well as adventure sports and activities and more.  
• I chose World Nomads Travel Insurance for my recent backpacking trip to Australia and New Zealand.  They offer travel insurance for independent travellers and intrepid families and you can get a quote, make a claim, or buy or extend your policy while on the road

GET A NO-OBLIGATION QUOTE

As an affiliate, I receive a fee when you get a quote from  World Nomads  using this link. I do not represent  World Nomads . This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Hostel Essentials for your Packing List

When it comes to what things are definitely needed in a hostel, the list is surprisingly short but important.  These hostel essentials will make the difference between you having a great night’s sleep and lying in your bed wide awake all night.  They will help you to make friends, charge up your electronics and keep your valuables as safe as possible.

I also like the locks with an extra-long loop as you’re never quite sure how big the lock mechanism will be.

I usually take two padlocks with me, which can be helpful if you leave your luggage somewhere overnight and take a smaller pack with you on a day or overnight trip somewhere else.

These padlocks are TSA approved so you can lock your luggage when you’re travelling and can then use the padlocks for your hostel locker.

BUY YOUR PADLOCK

BUY YOUR EARPLUGS

Eye Mask / Sleep Mask

If you are a light sleeper like me, then anything you can do to help block out noise and light will help – that’s where an eye mask can make a huge difference – especially when roommates turn the light on during the night!   I love this eye mask which is soft and comfortable, and you can adjust it around the nose so it fits closer to your face and blocks out more light.  It also has a handy little carry bag too.  

GET AN EYE MASK

Travel Plug Adapter (with USB Sockets)

BUY AN ADAPTER

Portable Power Bank

Anker is one of the best brands for portable chargers and after testing out several brands I always choose Anker.  I have a small version which is great for overnight or weekend trips and a larger one which can charge a phone several times for long periods without electricity. 

If you can’t find the one you want on Amazon, try eBay – there is a shortage of new electronics at the moment so you might get lucky with a second-hand one.

BROWSE POWER BANKS

Microfibre Towel

Microfibre travel towels are quick-drying, easy to wash and come in a variety of colours and sizes.  I actually travel with two – one for the beach and one for the hostel.

If you’re travelling somewhere hot and want to pack ultra-light you might get away with a sarong instead of a quick-dry travel towel, but personally, I can’t do without a microfibre towel!  They also double up as blankets on cold nights or air-conditioned bus journeys so are worth the space.

CHOOSE YOUR TOWEL

Travel Toiletries

Unlike hotels, hostels don’t usually offer any toiletries.  Occasionally there will be soap or show gel dispensers in the bathroom but you will need your own soap, shampoo, conditioner and any other lotions and potions you usually use. 

Having travel-sized containers to decant your own toiletries into is a fabulous space-saving trick, as well as reducing pointless plastic use when buying mini-sized toiletries at the airport. 

I also like to take solid shampoo and conditioner bars which don’t contribute to your liquid allocation for hand luggage.  Lush does the best ones I’ve found, although I’ve yet to find a solid conditioner that really works for long thick hair.  You can also save a bit of space with a folding toothbrush and by using toothpaste tabs instead of paste.

I always take the following essential toiletries, plus a bit of make-up and nail varnish (and remover pads ) if I’m feeling fancy.

• Bar of soap in a container
• Solid shampoo and conditioner bars from Lush ( in tins )
• Folding toothbrush
• Toothpaste tabs
• Deodorant 
• Perfume in a refillable mini bottle or free samples
• Moisturizer & lip balm (both with SPF)
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Travel hairbrush with mirror

Water Bottle with a Filter

All Tales of a Backpacker readers can get 15% discount on a Water-to-Go filter bottle with the code BYORB

GET YOUR WATER BOTTLE

If you’re used to sleeping with no clothes on in the comfort of your own home, remember to bring something to wear at night – for the benefit of everyone!  In hot weather, a pair of boxer shorts will do for guys and a strappy top and shorts/underwear for the girls will be just fine.

In colder weather, if you don’t want to pack extra pyjamas I often just wear the t-shirt I’ve had on during the day and a pair of leggings on my bottom half.  Whatever covers the essentials and you feel comfortable in if you need to get up and go to the loo in the night works! 

Even if you’re going to be sleeping in a private room instead of a shared dorm room, I usually still prefer to have something on in case of a fire alarm or something – you never know!

These days as well as coverage for your health and personal belongings you also want to look for travel insurance which covers COVID disruption such as World Nomads  or  Safety Wing for long term travel and digital nomad living.

Extra Items for your Hostel Packing List

I wouldn’t say that these are hostel essentials, as you don’t NEED them but they certainly can be useful!  Some of these I do carry with me and others I’ve left behind over the years but everyone is different so see what you think you might like to pack for your hostel stay!

Worldpackers Membership

If you are planning to travel for a long time, then membership to a work exchange website like Worldpackers or Workaway can save you A TON of money.  These websites offer a platform for hosts who are looking for volunteers to help them with their business, family life or eco-project, and members offer their skills and time in exchange for free accommodation.

Working in a hostel as a volunteer is great fun, and as well as free accommodation you often get other benefits such as free meals or tours as well as the opportunity to learn a new language, have a unique and immersive experience and spend more time in a different culture. 

All Tales of a Backpacker readers can get a $10 discount code for Worldpackers (that’s a saving of 20%) right here , or if you’re not sure if work exchanges are for you, check out my more in-depth articles on work exchanges . 

ACTIVATE YOUR DISCOUNT

Any kind of additional bag from a linen tote bag to a light laundry bag can serve a multitude of purposes, but for me, a waterproof dry bag ticks the most boxes. Choose the size that is right for you and the size of your backpack.

While you’re travelling it will keep your electronics and a clean set of clothes clean and dry.  It can be used as a laundry bag to keep your dirty stuff away from everything else, and at night if you’re sleeping somewhere without a locker you can put your valuables in it and clip it to your bed or cuddle it like a teddy bear!

CHOOSE A DRY BAG

Sleeping Bag Liner

Some people swear by these sleeping bag liners – not to use in a sleeping bag, but to sleep in if you’re not sure how clean the hostel bedding is!  I took one with me on my backpacking trip and never used it once – and never had a run-in with bed-bugs either!

However, if you do end up in a grotty bed, I must admit having a barrier between you and the dirty or bug-ridden sheets could be life-saver!  Just make sure you clean it and get rid of any potential infestations before you go to the next hostel.

GET A LINER

Packing Cubes

GET SOME PACKING CUBES

BUY ON AMAZON

Playing Cards

I carried a pack of cards all around South America with me, and do you know how often I used them?  Twice.  While it can be fun to set up a card game, I prefer to start up a conversation or a drinking game – something that people can join in easily without the need to explain any rules!

Often you’ll find that hostels have games that you can borrow to play anyway, so personally, I would skip the cards but you will find them on most other hostel packing lists.

Foldable Tupperware

If you’re going to be cooking in hostel kitchens, it’s great to be able to pack up leftovers in your own Tupperware for lunch or dinner the next day – as long as you label them clearly!  Foldable silicon pots like this take up less space while you’re travelling, or you can fill them up with electronics or other bits and bobs when there is no food in them! 

The downside is they aren’t always watertight, so they aren’t great if you want to pack leftovers to take with you in your backpack as they might leak.

GET SOME POTS

Bamboo Cutlery

GET A BAMBOO CUTLERY SET

Inflatable Neck Pillow

CHECK PRICES ON AMAZON

Notepad & Pen

Often overlooked, I actually can’t do without a good old fashioned pen and paper.  Make a note of hostel addresses, recommendations from other travellers, shopping lists, or start a travel journal.  

For me, no amount of iPhones, tablets or laptops can make up for doing it old school! Hardcover journals are more sturdy, so if you plan to keep it as a souvenir then go for a hardback or leatherbound journal although it will add more weight and bulk to your backpack.  If it is just for jotting down useful information then any old notepad will do.

BROWSE TRAVEL JOURNALS

Memory Sticks

Memory sticks or smaller memory cards are vital for backing up all of your photos when poor internet at the hostels makes cloud upload a mind-numbingly impossible task.  If possible take at least two and keep them separate and backed up as often as you can. 

GET A MEMORY STICK

What NOT to Pack for a Hostel

Of course, there are lots more things that you could pack, but there are some things that you definitely don’t need for a hostel stay, so don’t waste your time or valuable backpack space packing these!

Bedding or Sleeping Bag

I have never used a sleeping bag in a hostel, in fact, most hostels don’t allow you to use your own bedding in case you bring bed bugs with you!  Some people do like to bring a sleeping bag liner, but you usually won’t need one.

Expensive Jewelry & Valuables

Although hostels are safe in general, unfortunately, thefts in hostels do happen ( I had my laptop and passport stolen from a hostel in Ecuador ) so leave your valuables safe at home if you really don’t need them.  Jewelry and watches, as well as phones, cameras and laptops can all be worth a lot of money – and thieves can take advantage of a relaxed hostel atmosphere.   

If you are working on the road then you might need expensive equipment like laptops and photography gear, but if you don’t need them for work then consider if you really do need to bring them – or make sure your travel insurance covers the value of anything you do pack.

Please please don’t be “THAT GUY” who brings a guitar to a hostel and forces everyone into a sing-song.  Or makes us listen to Wanderwall performed badly for the millionth time.  If there is a guitar already in the hostel then fine, but bringing one with you is just. not. necessary. 

I hope you’ve found this list of what to pack for a hostel useful – and that you won’t forget any of your hostel essentials on your next trip!  If you have any suggestions for anything else you need for a hostel or if you think I should take something off then let me know in the comments below!

Want More Hostel Posts?

• Why Hostels are Awesome
• A Guide to Hostel Etiquette
• Staying in a Hostel for the First Time
• How to Choose a Hostel Bed Like a Pro
• What is it Like Working in a Hostel?
• Hostel Essentials Packing List
• Are Work Exchange Programs For You?
• The Best Work Exchange Sites Compared
• Workaway Alternatives You Need to Know
• Worldpackers vs Workaway
• Worldpackers Discount Promo Code

Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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HOSTEL LIFE 101: A Beginner’s Guide For Hostel Living

Introduction

Embarking on a hostel living experience can be an exciting and adventurous journey for anyone. Whether you’re a student exploring new educational opportunities, a traveler seeking budget accommodation, or simply someone looking for a unique communal living experience, hostel life offers a wide range of benefits. From building connections with people from diverse backgrounds to experiencing the local culture firsthand, hostels provide an enriching environment that goes beyond just a place to rest your head.

However, navigating the world of hostel living can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your hostel experience. From choosing the right hostel to understanding dormitory etiquette, managing finances, and making the most of amenities, this article will equip you with all the essential knowledge you need to thrive in a hostel environment.

So, whether you’re planning a long-term stay or just passing through for a few nights, read on to discover the tips, tricks, and insider insights on how to navigate the world of hostel living like a pro.

Choosing the Right Hostel

When it comes to choosing a hostel, it’s important to consider your preferences, budget, and personal needs. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:

• Location: Start by considering the location of the hostel. Do you prefer to stay in the heart of the city, with easy access to popular attractions and amenities? Or would you rather be in a quieter neighborhood? Think about what kind of environment suits your travel plans and interests.
• Reviews and Ratings: Take the time to read reviews and ratings from fellow travelers. Websites like TripAdvisor, Hostelworld, and Booking.com provide valuable insights from people who have stayed at the hostels you’re considering. Pay attention to factors such as cleanliness, staff friendliness, and overall atmosphere.
• Facilities and Amenities: Consider the facilities and amenities offered by the hostel. Are you looking for a hostel with a communal kitchen, laundry facilities, or a bar? Make a list of the amenities that are important to you and check if the hostel meets your requirements.
• Price and Value for Money: Set a budget for accommodation and compare the prices of different hostels. Keep in mind that the cheapest option may not always be the best. Consider the value for money, including the quality of facilities and services offered.
• Social Atmosphere: If you’re looking to meet fellow travelers and make new friends, consider the social atmosphere of the hostel. Some hostels organize activities, events, and communal spaces that facilitate interaction among guests. Look for hostels with common areas like a lounge or a rooftop terrace.
• Special Requirements: If you have any specific needs or requirements, such as accessibility or privacy, make sure to check if the hostel can accommodate them. Contact the hostel directly if you have any questions or concerns.

By considering these factors, you’ll be able to choose a hostel that aligns with your preferences and enhances your overall experience. Remember that different hostels cater to different types of travelers, so take the time to do your research and find the one that suits you best.

Essential Items to Pack

When it comes to packing for your hostel stay, it’s important to strike a balance between bringing the essentials and traveling light. Here are some essential items to consider packing:

• Travel-sized Toiletries: Pack travel-sized toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, and a toothbrush. Most hostels provide communal bathrooms, so having your own toiletries will keep you prepared.
• Towel and Shower Shoes: Bring a quick-drying towel as most hostels do not provide towels. Additionally, pack a pair of flip-flops or shower shoes to wear in the communal bathrooms.
• Earplugs and Eye Mask: Hostels can be lively and noisy at times. Packing earplugs and an eye mask will help you get a good night’s sleep, especially if you’re sharing a dormitory with other guests.
• Padlock: A padlock is an essential item to secure your belongings in the hostel lockers. Opt for a sturdy padlock with a combination or key lock.
• Power Adapter: If you’re traveling internationally, a universal power adapter is necessary to charge your electronic devices. This will ensure you can keep your phone, camera, and other devices charged during your stay.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill throughout your stay. Not only is it eco-friendly, but it will also help you save money on buying bottled water.
• Comfortable Shoes and Clothing: Pack comfortable walking shoes and versatile clothing suitable for the weather and activities in the area. Consider layers for varying temperatures and a rain jacket or umbrella in case of unexpected weather changes.
• Travel Documents: Don’t forget to bring your passport, identification, travel insurance documents, and any necessary visas. Keep them safely in a travel wallet or pouch.
• Personal Entertainment: If you enjoy downtime, consider bringing a book, a deck of cards, or any other small form of entertainment for when you want to relax at the hostel.

Remember to pack only what you truly need and consider the duration of your stay when selecting items. Most importantly, avoid packing valuables that you wouldn’t feel comfortable leaving in a shared space.

By packing these essential items, you’ll be well-prepared for your hostel stay and ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Understanding Dormitory Etiquette

When staying in a hostel dormitory, it’s important to be mindful of your fellow guests and follow certain etiquette guidelines to ensure a respectful and pleasant environment for everyone. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Be Considerate of Noise: Dormitories can be busy and noisy places. Respect quiet hours and try to keep noise to a minimum, especially during late-night hours when people may be sleeping. Use headphones when listening to music or watching videos and avoid talking loudly.
• Respect Personal Space: Be mindful of the limited personal space in dormitory rooms. Avoid spreading your belongings across communal areas and respect the personal space of your roommates by keeping your belongings organized and contained within your designated area.
• Keep Common Areas Clean: Clean up after yourself in common areas such as the kitchen, lounge, and bathroom. Wash your dishes promptly, dispose of trash properly, and leave shared spaces as you found them.
• Use Shared Facilities Efficiently: In a shared bathroom or kitchen, be conscious of other guests who may be waiting to use the facilities. Limit your time in the shower, maintain cleanliness, and be considerate of others’ needs for space or appliances.
• Communicate and Resolve Issues: If you’re having any issues or concerns with roommates or the hostel itself, communicate politely and directly. Hostel staff are often there to help mediate and find solutions to ensure a comfortable stay for everyone.
• Respect Cultural Differences: Hostels attract people from diverse backgrounds and cultures. Embrace and respect these differences, be open-minded, and avoid offensive or insensitive remarks or behavior.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Maintain good personal hygiene by regularly showering, using deodorant, and washing your hands. This will contribute to a pleasant environment for everyone in the dormitory.
• Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables secure by using lockers provided by the hostel or keeping them in a locked bag. It’s also important to be respectful of others’ belongings and not to touch or use anything without permission.

By following these dormitory etiquette guidelines, you’ll contribute to a harmonious and enjoyable atmosphere in the hostel. Remember, everyone is sharing the same space, so being considerate and respectful towards others goes a long way in creating a positive experience for everyone.

Getting Along with Roommates

Sharing a dormitory with roommates can be an exciting part of the hostel experience, as it provides an opportunity to meet new people and make lasting connections. Here are some tips to help you get along with your hostel roommates:

• Introduce Yourself: Take the initiative to introduce yourself to your roommates when you first arrive. A simple greeting and a friendly conversation can go a long way in establishing a positive atmosphere.
• Respect Boundaries: Be conscious of your roommates’ personal space and privacy. Avoid going through their belongings, using their things without permission, or invading their personal area within the dormitory.
• Be Considerate: Show consideration for your roommates by keeping noise levels down, especially during sleeping hours. If you need to unpack or prepare something early in the morning or late at night, try to do it quietly and be mindful of others who might be resting.
• Communication is Key: Effective communication is essential in any shared living space. If there are any issues or concerns, speak openly and respectfully with your roommates. Addressing problems promptly and directly can prevent any misunderstandings from escalating.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Maintaining personal hygiene is not only important for you but also for the comfort of your roommates. Regularly showering, doing laundry, and keeping your belongings clean will contribute to a pleasant environment for everyone.
• Share Responsibilities: Take turns with your roommates in performing tasks such as taking out the trash, cleaning the shared area, or restocking communal supplies. Sharing responsibilities helps foster a sense of teamwork and cooperation.
• Respect Diverse Backgrounds: Embrace diversity and respect cultural differences among your roommates. Be open-minded and curious about their backgrounds, customs, and traditions, and avoid making assumptions or stereotypes.
• Be Friendly: Engage in friendly conversations, get to know your roommates, and show genuine interest in their stories and experiences. Building a friendly and positive atmosphere within the dormitory can enhance your overall hostel experience.
• Participate in Social Activities: Take advantage of hostel social activities or events to connect with your roommates and other guests. It’s a great way to foster camaraderie and create shared memories.
• Be Flexible: In a shared space, compromise and flexibility are key. Be willing to accommodate the needs and preferences of your roommates, and approach any conflicts or disagreements with an open mind.

Remember, living with roommates in a hostel can be a rewarding experience. By practicing respect, communication, and consideration, you’ll be able to foster positive relationships and create a harmonious living environment during your stay.

Utilizing Common Areas

One of the great advantages of staying in a hostel is the access to common areas that provide opportunities for socializing, relaxation, and self-care. Here are some tips on how to make the most of the hostel’s common areas:

• Lounge and Common Room: Many hostels have a lounge or common room where guests can gather, mingle, and relax. Take advantage of this space to meet other travelers, share stories, play games, or simply unwind after a day of exploring.
• Kitchen and Dining Area: If the hostel has a communal kitchen, consider cooking your own meals. It’s not only a great way to save money but also an opportunity to interact with other guests and exchange culinary experiences. Be sure to clean up after yourself and respect others’ food and belongings.
• Outdoor Spaces: Some hostels have beautiful outdoor spaces such as a garden, terrace, or rooftop. These areas provide a tranquil setting to enjoy a cup of coffee, read a book, or simply soak up the sun. Don’t miss out on the chance to relax outdoors and take in the scenery.
• Workspaces: If you need to catch up on work or stay connected with loved ones, look for hostels that provide dedicated workspaces or a quiet area with reliable internet access. These spaces are ideal for remote workers, digital nomads, or students who need to study.
• Laundry Facilities: If the hostel offers laundry facilities, take advantage of them to freshen up your wardrobe. Use the available machines and be considerate of other guests who may also need to do their laundry.
• Recreation and Entertainment: Some hostels provide recreational activities or entertainment options such as movie nights, pool tables, or board games. Engage in these activities to have fun and bond with fellow travelers.
• Quiet Areas: Hostels often have designated quiet areas for relaxation or reading. If you’re seeking some solitude, look for these spaces to unwind, recharge, or catch up on your favorite book.
• Respect the Rules: While utilizing the common areas, always respect the rules and guidelines set by the hostel. This includes cleaning up after yourself, adhering to noise restrictions, and being mindful of other guests’ needs.

Remember, the common areas in hostels are not just spaces to pass through but vibrant hubs for socializing, relaxation, and fostering connections. Embrace the opportunity to utilize these areas to enhance your hostel experience and make lasting memories.

Safety and Security Measures

Ensuring your safety and security is paramount when staying in a hostel. While hostels typically have safety measures in place, it’s important to take personal precautions as well. Here are some safety and security tips to keep in mind:

• Lockers: Most hostels provide lockers for guests to securely store their valuables. Always use a reliable padlock to secure your belongings, and avoid leaving any valuable items unattended in shared spaces.
• Identification and Belongings: Keep your identification documents, money, and valuable items in a secure location. Consider carrying a photocopy of your passport as identification and leaving the original in the hostel safe.
• Fire Safety: Familiarize yourself with the fire safety procedures of the hostel, including the location of fire exits, fire extinguishers, and assembly points. Take note of any fire safety instructions provided by the hostel staff.
• Stay Alert: Always be vigilant and aware of your surroundings, both inside the hostel and in the surrounding area. Report any suspicious activity or individuals to the hostel staff or authorities if necessary.
• Personal Security: Keep your room locked when you’re inside and when you leave. If your roommates are strangers, be cautious about sharing personal information and avoid giving out your room number or details to unknown individuals.
• Emergency Contact Information: Make note of the emergency contact information for the hostel, including the local authorities and the nearest hospital. Keep this information readily accessible in case of an emergency.
• Travel Insurance: Prior to your trip, ensure that you have adequate travel insurance coverage. Familiarize yourself with the policy details, including what is covered and how to contact the insurance provider in case of an emergency.
• Nighttime Safety: Use caution when going out at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit and populated areas, and consider traveling in groups, if possible.
• Trust Your Instincts: If you ever feel uncomfortable or unsafe, trust your instincts and remove yourself from the situation. Seek assistance from hostel staff or the local authorities if needed.
• Share Travel Plans: Let someone you trust, such as a friend or family member, know your travel plans, including your hostel name and contact information. Regularly update them on your whereabouts.

Remember, while hostels strive to create a safe environment for their guests, it’s essential to be proactive in ensuring your own safety and security. By following these safety measures and staying alert, you can have a worry-free and enjoyable hostel experience.

Managing Finances

Effectively managing your finances is crucial when staying in a hostel, especially if you’re on a budget or traveling for an extended period. Here are some tips to help you manage your finances during your hostel stay:

• Set a Budget: Before your trip, determine how much you can afford to spend on accommodations, meals, activities, and other expenses. Establishing a budget will help you make informed decisions about where to stay and how to allocate your funds.
• Research Prices: Compare prices of different hostels to find one that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as location, amenities, and guest reviews.
• Cook Your Own Meals: Cooking your own meals is a cost-effective option. Take advantage of the communal kitchen facilities in the hostel to prepare your own breakfast, lunch, or dinner. This will help you save money compared to eating out for every meal.
• Utilize Free Amenities: Take advantage of the free amenities offered by the hostel, such as Wi-Fi, walking tours, or social events. These activities can provide entertainment and cultural experiences without needing to spend extra money.
• Track Your Expenses: Keep a record of your expenses to monitor how much you’re spending. This can help you identify areas where you can cut back or adjust your budget if necessary.
• Avoid Unnecessary Expenditures: Be mindful of unnecessary expenses such as impulse buys, expensive souvenirs, or excessive nightlife spending. Focus on experiences and memories rather than material possessions.
• Use Local Transportation: Opt for local public transportation instead of taxis or private transfers whenever possible. This can significantly reduce transportation costs and give you a more authentic experience of the local culture.
• Research Discount Offers: Look for discount offers, promotional codes, or special deals that can help you save money on activities or attractions in the area. Online platforms and local tourism websites often provide valuable discounts.
• Withdraw Cash Wisely: When withdrawing cash, be mindful of ATM fees and exchange rates. Plan your cash withdrawals strategically to minimize extra costs. Consider using a travel-friendly debit card that offers low or no transaction fees abroad.
• Share Costs with fellow travelers: If you’re traveling with others or meet fellow travelers at the hostel, consider sharing costs for group activities, transportation, and groceries. This can substantially reduce individual expenses and foster camaraderie.

By implementing these financial management tips, you can make the most of your budget while still enjoying all the experiences and opportunities that hostel living has to offer. Remember, it’s all about striking a balance between saving money and creating memorable experiences during your stay.

Dealing with Homesickness

Feeling homesick is a common experience when staying in a hostel, especially if you’re away from familiar surroundings and loved ones. Here are some strategies to help you cope with homesickness during your hostel stay:

• Stay Connected: Maintain regular communication with your family and friends back home. Use video calls, social media, or messaging apps to stay connected and share your experiences. Their support and words of encouragement can help alleviate feelings of homesickness.
• Establish a Routine: Creating a routine can provide a sense of stability and familiarity. Set aside time for activities you enjoy, such as reading, exercising, or exploring the local area. Having a routine can give you a sense of comfort and normalcy in your new environment.
• Embrace Technology: Use technology to bring reminders of home with you. Set your phone or laptop background to a picture of loved ones, listen to familiar music, or watch a favorite TV show or movie that reminds you of home.
• Connect with Fellow Travelers: Engage with other travelers you meet at the hostel. Share your experiences, listen to their stories, and build new connections. Making friends who are going through similar experiences can be a source of support and understanding.
• Explore and Immerse Yourself: Immerse yourself in the local culture and explore the surrounding area. Engaging in new experiences, trying local foods, and visiting landmarks can help distract you from feelings of homesickness and create new and exciting memories.
• Keep Yourself Occupied: Stay busy and engaged to keep your mind off homesickness. Engage in activities at the hostel, join organized tours or events, or pursue hobbies and interests that you enjoy.
• Practice Self-Care: Take care of yourself both physically and mentally. Get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in activities that help you relax and unwind. Engaging in self-care can boost your mood and overall well-being.
• Write about Your Experiences: Keep a travel journal or blog to document your experiences and feelings. Writing can be therapeutic and serve as a way to reflect on your journey and appreciate the new adventures you’re having away from home.
• Seek Support from Hostel Staff: If you’re feeling particularly homesick, don’t hesitate to reach out to the hostel staff for support or advice. They are accustomed to helping travelers who may be experiencing similar feelings and can provide guidance or suggestions.
• Give Yourself Time: Remember that homesickness is temporary and it’s natural to feel this way when you’re in a new and unfamiliar environment. Give yourself time to adjust and adapt to your surroundings. With time, the feeling of homesickness usually diminishes.

By implementing these strategies, you can navigate through feelings of homesickness and make the most of your hostel experience. Remember, it’s normal to miss home, but embracing the adventure and creating new connections can help transform your hostel stay into an enriching and memorable experience.

Exploring the Local Area

One of the most exciting aspects of staying in a hostel is the opportunity to explore the local area and immerse yourself in the culture and attractions of your destination. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your exploration:

• Do Your Research: Before venturing out, do some research on the local area. Familiarize yourself with the popular attractions, local customs, transportation options, and safety tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
• Ask the Locals and Hostel Staff: Seek recommendations from locals or the hostel staff. They can provide insider tips on hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path destinations, and local events happening during your stay. Their knowledge can enhance your exploration and make it more authentic.
• Get Lost on Purpose: Allow yourself to get lost in the local streets and neighborhoods, especially in cities where getting lost can lead to unexpected discoveries. Embrace the spontaneity of exploring new areas and stumble upon hidden gems.
• Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss the opportunity to try the local cuisine. Indulge in traditional dishes, street food, or local specialties. Food is a major part of a culture, and tasting the local flavors can be a memorable and delicious experience.
• Immerse in Cultural Activities: Look for cultural activities such as festivals, exhibitions, or performances happening in the area. Participate in these activities to gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions.
• Interact with Locals: Engage in conversations with locals to learn more about their way of life, traditions, and recommendations. Their insight can provide a unique perspective and enrich your experience.
• Explore Nature: Take advantage of any nearby natural attractions, such as parks, beaches, or hiking trails. Enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings and engage in outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, or picnicking.
• Use Public Transportation: Utilize the local public transportation system to get around the area. It’s not only cost-effective but also gives you the opportunity to observe the local lifestyle and interact with fellow commuters.
• Capture the Moments: Take photos or keep a travel journal to document your explorations. These will serve as lasting memories and allow you to reflect on your experiences in the future.
• Stay Open-Minded: Embrace the unfamiliar and be open to new experiences. Step out of your comfort zone and immerse yourself in the local culture, even if it means trying something you wouldn’t typically do.

Remember, exploring the local area is an adventure in itself. Embrace the opportunity to learn, discover, and engage with the culture and attractions around you. By following these tips, you’ll create unforgettable experiences and make the most of your time in the local area.

Making the Most of Hostel Amenities

Hostels offer a range of amenities to enhance your stay and create a comfortable and enjoyable environment. Here’s how you can make the most of the amenities provided by the hostel:

• Common Kitchen: Utilize the communal kitchen to prepare your own meals and save money on dining out. Cook with fellow travelers, exchange recipes, and have fun while creating your own culinary experience.
• Common Areas: Take advantage of the common areas, such as the lounge or outdoor spaces, to relax, socialize, and meet other guests. Engage in conversations, play games, or simply unwind after a day of exploring.
• Organized Events and Activities: Participate in the hostel’s organized events and activities. These can range from city tours, pub crawls, cooking classes, or group excursions. It’s a great way to meet fellow travelers and create shared memories.
• Laundry Facilities: If the hostel provides laundry facilities, make use of them to freshen up your clothes and save space in your luggage. Keeping your clothes clean and fresh during your travels enhances your overall comfort.
• Wi-Fi: Take advantage of the hostel’s Wi-Fi to stay connected, plan your next adventure, or share your travel experiences with family and friends. It’s an essential tool for staying connected in the digital age.
• Lockers: Use the lockers provided by the hostel to secure your valuables, such as passports, money, and electronics. Lockers offer peace of mind and ensure that your belongings are safe and secure during your stay.
• 24/7 Reception: Take advantage of the hostel’s 24/7 reception desk for any assistance or information you may need. Whether it’s recommendations for local attractions or help with booking transportation, the staff is there to assist you.
• Tourist Information: Make use of the hostel’s tourist information resources, such as maps, brochures, and guidebooks. These materials can provide valuable insights into the local area, attractions, and transportation options.
• Guest Reviews and Recommendations: Read the guest reviews and recommendations posted in the hostel. They can provide insights into nearby restaurants, sights, and activities that are worth exploring.
• Ask the Hostel Staff: Don’t hesitate to ask the hostel staff for recommendations, tips, or directions. They have local knowledge and can offer valuable advice based on their experience.

By taking advantage of these amenities, you’ll enrich your hostel experience and make your stay more enjoyable. Each amenity provided by the hostel contributes to creating a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere for travelers from all over the world.

Staying in a hostel can be an exciting and fulfilling experience that allows you to connect with people from all walks of life, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your hostel living experience.

Choosing the right hostel that aligns with your preferences and budget is crucial for a comfortable stay. Packing the essential items, understanding dormitory etiquette, and getting along with roommates will contribute to a harmonious and enjoyable environment. Utilizing the hostel’s common areas and amenities will enhance your socializing and relaxation opportunities.

When it comes to safety and security, practicing precautions and following the hostel’s safety measures will ensure your well-being. Managing your finances thoughtfully will allow you to maximize your budget and enjoy all that the destination has to offer.

Dealing with homesickness may be a part of your hostel experience, but by staying connected, immersing yourself in the local culture, and engaging with fellow travelers, you can overcome these feelings and create a sense of home away from home.

Lastly, exploring the local area and making the most of the hostel’s amenities will allow you to fully embrace the adventure and make unforgettable memories during your stay.

Remember, a hostel is not just a place to stay but a vibrant community that offers unique opportunities for personal growth, cultural immersion, and connection. By following this guide, you’ll be equipped to navigate the world of hostel living like a pro and make the most of your hostel experience.

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Home » Europe » Best Hostels

The 21 Best Hostels in Europe

Europe is hostel central. Even the lesser ventured areas of Europe still offer the intrepid explorer a whole range of accommodations (at cheaper prices) to rest their weary brain.

There is no shortage of dorm beds on this continent. Generally, they’re pretty high-quality when compared to other continents too – making the coolest places for backpackers to base their European travels. They are sure bets for newbies, solo females, party animals, digital nomads, and even families.

But with so many to choose from, let’s cut to the chase. The Broke Backpacker team have rounded up our list of our BEST hostels in Europe. Trust me, this team know a good hostel when we see one. So if you’re looking for adventures, get ready to shape your itineraries around these bad boys. 

From famous European hostels to special offerings to the cheapest, it’s really got something for everyone. With these, hostel adventures in Europe are as smooth as a German man’s shaved chest. It’s all about that smart-casual.

Let’s get into it!

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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Europe

Europe’s top hostels, final thoughts on europe’s best hostels.

• Buy Us a Coffee!
• Overall Best Hostel in Europe – Hostel Mostel
• Best Hostel for Solo Travellers in Europe –  JJ’s Yard
• Best Cheap Hostel in Europe – Grand Hostel Berlin Classic
• Best Party Hostel in Europe – Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel
• Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Europe – City Backpackers Hostel

It’s time to unearth that top pick of Europe’s hostel offerings for your adventure. I’ve broken these down into some of the most famous and frequented destinations to travel in Europe . All you’ll need to know after this is how to do those European cheek kisses.

Hostel Mostel (Sofia, Bulgaria)

There’s a certain kind of soft nervousness that takes over when I’m about to enter a new hostel by myself. I’ve done it so many times, but still, sometimes it’s stronger than me…

Will there be cool people around? Will I fit in?

But then there’s a certain kind of hostel that stops you from snowballing into this anxious firepit as soon as you step in. A place where you immediately feel at home. Hostel Mostel is one of those places.

Why you’ll love this hostel:

• Social vibes
• Lots of FREE perks
• Group activities galore

I spent Christmas here many, many moons ago, during one of my first trips in Europe. It was one of those times when the spirit of hostelling truly shined before my eyes.

We were an eclectic bunch, and all were eager to learn from each other and share tales of wisdom and adventure. I felt really lucky that I ended up there, as this was exactly what I needed in a time like that.

Hostel Mostel has two locations: one in Sofia and another one in Veliko Tarnovo. They both operate under the same principles and offer pretty much the same things: comfy beds, a pool table, and free, fast Wi-Fi.

People often jump around their locations, so you’re likely to run into the same people if you do the same. It’s a traveller’s classic in Europe, so make sure to book in advance.

Price: Dorms from €9, Private Rooms from €18

ClinkNOORD (Amsterdam, The Netherlands)

Oh, Amsterdam – you knew it’d be on here. Like, it’s Amsterdam.

This isn’t the most hedonistic place for what can only be described as the ‘ essential Amsterdam experience ’, but it is certainly one of Europe’s nicest boutique hostels. Comfortable beds and chillout areas and the space itself is pretty spectacular in its own right!

• Free friends-making events
• Live music and DJ sets
• Unique social areas

It’s close to downtown yet enjoys the vibe of the much more chill but vibrant places to stay in Amsterdam -Noord neighbourhood and ClinkNOORD is also close to some cultural hotspots to admire too (yes, Amsterdam does have culture as well). Other than that, it’s got all the amenities you would expect from one of Europe’s absolute best hostels.

Price: Dorms from €22.80, Private Rooms from €91.20

Greg & Tom Beer House Hostel (Krakow, Poland)

Greg and Tom’s is a hostel chain with a rich history of dominating the Polish hostelling scene . The one thing that sets these hostels apart from the rest and firmly places it as one of the best hostel chains in Europe is the FREE BREAKFAST AND DINNER provided by all three of these hostels. 

Whilst the OG Greg and Tom Hostel in Krakow is one of the most praised hostels online (and rightly so), and this Party Hostel ain’t too shabby either, there is only one real winner for me…

Ladies and Gentlemen, introducing my favourite hostel in Europe *drum roll please*… Greg and Tom Beer House Hostel!!! I mean, free food is always great, but one thing that we Englishmen and the Polish can agree on is how fucking awesome free beer is.

• FREE BREAKFAST
• FREE DINNER
• Fantastic Atmosphere

Now, it’s not just the fact that the beer is free (during beer hour) that makes this hostel so good, it is the atmosphere this creates that is what’s really special. The booze gets the hostel so buzzing and lively and creates that idyllic, social and interactive backpacking atmosphere that we solo travellers crave. Add pub crawls into the mix and you quite literally have the perfect cocktail for a party hostel night.

Located in the heart of Krakow, this hostel is an elite choice for solo travellers in Europe who are looking to indulge in the nightlife, socialise, make memories (and then forget them) and just have a downright swell time. If you like the sound of all that, don’t hesitate as this place books up fast, there are nine differently-sized dorms here so there really is something for everyone.

Price: Dorms from €20.40

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Wombat’s City Hostel (London, UK)

As you hostel around Europe like a pro, you’re going to quickly discover some repeat offenders… of the crime of offering fucking awesome hostels! Wombat’s Hostels is a chain of the most famous hostels in Europe and they’ve won a bunch of awards too, so they gotta be doing something right!

• Amazing London location
• Lively atmosphere
• Ensuite rooms

So, yeah, they offer good hostels in Europe, and Wombats in London is no exception. Super clean, modern amenities (the dorms and lockers even have smart card locks), and private showers in all the rooms. They even got a buffet breakfast (two of my four favourite words in the English language) for an extra charge.

Wombat’s City Hostel, London, is in a dope spot for backpackers exploring The Big Smoke and is an all-round just solidly awesome hostel. The only real downside I can think of is that you’re in London.

Price: Dorms from €29.20, Private Rooms from €145.80

JJ’s Yard (Lagos, Portugal)

If you’re looking for the best party hostel in Europe , the search is over. Hidden amongst the cobbled streets of the BEAUTIFUL party town of Lagos, Portugal, you’ll find JJ’s Yard.

JJ’s is run by none other than the man himself, JJ. The man is an absolute legend. He can funnel more beer than you’d think was humanly possible and is SO welcoming to every guest who arrives through his doors. 

• Nightly pre-drinks and pub crawls
• Central location and close to the beach
• Epic rooftop views

The hostel is spread across JJ’s Yard 1 and JJ’s Yard 2. JJ’s Yard 1 is slightly more chilled out and has an EPIC rooftop with a view across the town and the ocean. Whereas, JJ’s Yard 2 is where the action happens. The nightly pre-drinks for the pub crawls are hosted here, the turnout is usually solid and they can get pretty loose. 

These Lagos hostels are super close to one another and are smack bang in the heart of Lagos. Cure your hangover with a dive in the sea or some all-you-can-eat sushi. 

After working at this hostel for over a month and meeting the luuuurve of my life here, I can vouch for its EPICNESS. Solid memories will be made at this place (if you can remember them).

Price: Dorms from €17, Private Rooms from €38

Steel House (Copenhagen, Denmark)

Hostel sceptics unite because I’m about to blow your little cotton socks off with this next hostel in Copenhagen . Here comes Steel House to completely change the game!

Where do I even start with this beauty?

• Free breakfast 
• Gym, Pool, Massive kitchen and bar. 
• Pod-style beds with super comfortable mattresses

Ok, I’m gonna dive right into the tasty details because, frankly, I’ve gotten myself so over-excited about a hostel I need a lie-down. So, the beds, ahh, the beds. No bog standard bunks here, everything is custom-made down to even having mattresses made by the Danish furniture brand Getama that fit the unique contours of the rounded pod-style beds. 

Inside each pod, you’ll get a light, plug sockets and a super comfortable pillow. Oh, and they also offer private single and double rooms with terraces looking out over the city as well. 

Once you’ve peeled yourself up from one of the world’s most comfortable hostel beds, it’s time to explore what the rest of this industrial chic former steelworks has to offer. I can guarantee you’ve never seen a hostel as stacked as this. 

I’m gonna start at my favourite bit, the gym! We’re talking about a fully stocked gym with proper weights, benches, TRX and cardio equipment.

Then there’s a swimming pool, a movie room, pool tables and shuffleboards, there’s even a bar and a massive fully equipped kitchen with proper stoves wait for it… ovens! A rarity in hostels I think we can all agree. 

Price: Dorms from €19.40 , Private Rooms from €89

City Backpackers Hostel (Stockholm, Sweden)

As a digital nomad, there’s nothing more frustrating than shitty WIFI connection. Fast, reliable WIFI is a blessing I took for granted before embarking on my digital nomad journey. Arriving at City Backpackers was a breath of fresh air. With fibre internet throughout the Hostel and plenty of spaces to work, it’s no surprise, that it’s crowned the best hostel for digital nomads in Europe. 

• Fast Fibre Internet 
• FREE Ice skate rental 
• FREE Pasta 

If you thought the fast WIFI was good..it gets better. They even offer FREE Pasta and movie nights. Yes, you read that correctly FREE pasta. They have an onsite sauna, which is FREE to guests and in the winter they have FREE ice skate rental. Plenty of activities to keep you entertained and the wallet happy. There are heaps of buzzing communal spaces to meet some fellow digital nomads and head into town to grab a beer. You’re in an ideal location within walking distance from the train station and public transport. Trust me, you’re in for a treat with this one. 

Price: Dorms from €21 , Private Rooms from €70

Sir Toby’s Hostel (Prague, Czechia)

Tucked away in the art centre of Prague, Holesovice, Sir Toby’s Hostel is THE place to stay. It may not be smack bang in the middle of the city centre, but instead, you’ll find yourself quickly immersed in funky industrial cafes and quirky art galleries nearby. The hostel is also super close to the tram station that can take you right into the city in less than 15 minutes. 

• Vintage brick cellar pub on-site
• Weekly BBQs
• Homely vibes
• Close to the tram station

Warm, cosy and homely are the words I’d used to describe Sir Toby’s. Whether you’re up for exchanging stories over a pint in the hostel’s brick cellar pub or showing off your competitive side in one of the hostel’s many board games… this is the perfect place to stay in Prague if you’re craving a taste of “home”. 

This is NOT a party hostel but instead, the perfect place to relax, recoup and recover. It’s social without the pressure of having to get shit-faced to make friends. Join the weekly BBQ, meet some new mates or just grab a book and chill out. Travelling in Prague is tiring and finding a hostel that feels like home can be just what you need. 

Price: Dorms from €13.50, Private Rooms from €34.40

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Plus Florence (Florence, Italy)

It’s not a secret that the birthplace of the Renaissance is one of the most visited places in the world. There are plenty of hostels in Florence , but among them, there is one that stands out, Plus Florence. Not only a great and convenient location (10 min walk from the train station), but also the cool facilities that come with it including an onsite lively and colourful restaurant/bar, a garden area, a swimming pool in summer and an indoor pool and sauna in winter (I know it sounds insane buts it’s true), a gym, a terrace with great views, and heaps of places to mingle and chill.

• Close to train station
• Swimming Pool all year
• Restaurant-Bar
• Terrace and Garden area

The staff couldn’t be more helpful and attentive. The second you’ll step into the hostel, you’ll be well taken care of.

With a laundry room, luggage storage, free Wifi, round-the-clock security, an ATM, and a tour desk, what more could you wish for?!

In my opinion, this is, for sure, one of the top 3 hostels for solo travellers in Europe, with a great atmosphere to meet other backpackers and have fun, and also close to all main museums, churches, and main interest points in the city.

Do you need to work, have fun or just chill? This hostel has everything that you need. I can assure you that this place is one of the best hostels in Europe I ever visited. Don’t just take my word, check out the thousands of reviews they have and reach your own conclusions. 

Price: Dorms from €16 , Private Rooms from €52

Grand Hostel Berlin Classic (Berlin, Germany)

This is one of Europe’s cheaper hostels and not too shabby at all for budget travellers in Berlin ! And there are no bunk beds… dude, I’m in love!

Honestly, the whole setup is really damn cool; the building is old – dating back to 1874 – which means some real classical architecture but, of course, the amenities have been updated for modern Euro-backpacker standards. And there are no bunk beds – single beds with a nightstand. Just like home.

• Pub crawls with amazing staff
• Old-ass building with modern amenities
• Step-free access ground floor

The free breakfast buffet (there’s my beloved BB again) costs a bit extra but considering the price of the hostel, that’s admissible. Besides, there’s a library bar and this is Berlin so that means you can get piss-drunk on cheap-ass beer while you catch up on some of the classics. Legend has it that Einstein, Kant, Nietzsche, and Marx rather enjoyed their cheap-ass beer too!

Price: Dorms from €21 , Private Rooms from €85

Full Moon Backpackers (Bristol, UK)

For those of you who don’t know, Bristol is the UK’s true counter-culture epicentre. It’s a graffiti-splashed triumph of urban revivalism that seems to perpetually throng to the angular 175 BPM rhythms of Drum ‘n’ Bass. And few places encapsulate the quintessence of this fine city as well as The Full Moon Backpackers.

The spectacular-looking hostel is located 5 minutes away from the Bristol Coach station (1.2 km from the Cathedral and 2 km from Gentricentric Clifton Village) and leads right onto the cool, hip and edgy Stokes Croft area so you can spot your first Banksy within minutes of leaving the hostel – if you leave the hostel that is…

• Banging Location
• Great Vibes

This is the thing with Full Moon Backpackers, it’s a hostel where the party comes to you. Every weekend (Thursday to Saturday) there are queues of Brisoltlians waiting to get in and mingle with the guests at the 2 fine bars located on the ground floor. This means it’s a great hostel for solo travellers in the UK who are up for getting merry with some randoms. 

In terms of rooms and amenities, the dorm rooms come in sizes of 6 people up to 12 people (I think) and yeah, the shared showers can get busy at peak shitting times during weekends. Alas, the last time I stayed there I booked out one of the private penthouse rooms as it was my birthday.

Price: Dorms from €28 , Private Rooms from €65.30

Onefam Paralelo (Barcelona, Spain)

Now we’re heading south to Mediterranean Europe. It’s still Europe down this way but the weather is better! Also, the people smile a bit more (I probably wouldn’t smile much either if I was from the country that spawned old Frieddy ‘Abyss’ Nietzsche).

• Free dinners
• Pod-style beds
• Cinema rooms with Netflix

Backpacking in Barcelona is a weird one – some people adore it, some loathe it – but it’s still a classic hit on the Europe itinerary tracklist and Onefam Paralelo is hella dope! Free dinners (I’m frothing), a cinema room with Netflix (for while you eat your free dinner), and free party-pub crawls. As a general rule, the more free stuff you’re getting, the better choice of a place to stay in Europe on a budget it is.

The dorms are good too – those semi-private semi-capsule style beds – and the real thing to write home about is the crazy friendly staff bringing smiles to everyone’s faces. It’s nothin’ but good vibes.

Price: Dorms from €20.40, Private Rooms from €73.40

YellowSquare (Rome, Italy)

So this is advertised pretty firmly as a party hostel and it honestly makes the cut as one of Europe’s best. It’s also the coolest hostel in Rome ; the other honourable mentions just didn’t hold up. There’s a lot on offer here.

• Nightclub and lively bar
• Coworking space with comfy chairs
• Onsite hair salon

To start, it is a party hostel so there’ll always be something vibing. The on-site bar and nightclub gets live music, DJ sets, and even goddamn burlesque shows! There are plenty of other low-key events too like gelato making and yoga but considering it’s a party hostel, I’m sure no one will mind if you’d like to pre-drink before the yoga to spice things up.

Breakfast is cheap, the dorms are simple yet effective, and the location is in the city centre which makes travelling around Rome and the major things to see a breeze. Overall, with or without the partying, The Yellow is still a kickass place to stay in Rome!

Price: Dorms from €31.90 , Private Rooms from €86.70

Sunset Destination Hostel (Lisbon, Portugal)

Though perhaps not quite as frequented as Spain, Portugal is excellent. It’s not strictly cheap but it ain’t gonna murder your budget either and it certainly helps that the drugs and festivals are top-notch! There are some dope-ass beaches too!

• Rooftop terrace and swimming pool
• Free walking tours and pub crawls

Sunset Destination is a boutique hostel located inside a train station so which makes travelling around Lisbon mind-numbingly easy. It’s also super close to the party district and, again, Portugal brings the goods in that department (plus those delectable Mediterranean genetics – wink-wink ). Expect free Sangria pre-drinks before you lose yourself on the pub crawl.

Dorm beds are semi-private pods, there’s a whole host of other awesome hostel events, and, overall, I just have a real soft spot for Portugal. So, yup, this is a damn cool hostel in Europe!

Price: Dorms from €12 , Private Rooms from €55

St Christopher’s Inn Gare Du Nord (Paris, France)

A hop across the channel and you’ll find yourself in Europe’s next most quintessential travel destination – The City of Lights. Right by the metro and in a dope spot of its own, St Christopher’s is one of the best places to stay both in Europe and Paris.

• Happy hour drink offers
• Direct transport to Paris’s Charles de Gaulle Airport
• Private pod dorm beds

The dorms are sweet. Though not quite a capsule, the beds are their own personal space with curtains, reading lamps, and charging ports right next to your head! You’ll also be nabbing a discount on food at Belushi’s downstairs plus that sweet, sweet happy hour

For all help on unpacking the Parisian wonderland, there’s a 24-hour reception, and they can get you set up with both attraction tickets for both backpacking around Paris and onward travel tickets for elsewhere in Europe. Not bad, all in all!

Price: Dorms from €27.80, Private Rooms from €68

Stay Swanky Hostel (Zagreb, Croatia)

That name sounds like something I’d come up with. Ridiculousness aside, my friend pitched this as a perfect first-time experience of staying in hostels in Europe and I totally agree! Everything is swanky mint!

Jokes aside, the facilities and the building itself are super yummy! You get sun terraces, a swimming pool, and window gardens for a splash of nature in the city: it’s actually super pretty!

• Pet friendly!
• Cool staff of travellers
• Swimming pool for the warmer months

The vibe is social and you’ll catch a bit of a party here but it ain’t nearly as bananas as somewhere like Budapest.

The added bonus is that you’re staying in a hostel in Eastern Europe. Backpacking in Croatia (and the Balkans as a whole) is gorgeous and a nice departure from the usual backpacker stops in Europe. You even get a welcome drink of Rakija. Hospitality shots are true classical European style.

Price: Dorms from €17 , Private Rooms from €50

Carpe Noctem (Budapest, Hungary)

Yep, so it’s Budapest and it’s another friend’s recommendation but I’ll be straight: I received five accommodation recommendations for Budapest and they were all off-the-hook party hostels. This one my friend described as “Anarchy”. I’m seeing a recurring theme with Budapest.

• Home-like vibe
• Free tea and coffee
• Set up for solo travellers

As well as a lively hostel, I’d say this is one of the best hostels in Europe for solo travellers purely for the atmosphere Carpe Noctem creates. It’s not just the sociability or the parties or the tight facilities (this hostel isn’t nearly as grungy): the owners cater themselves to travellers. They understand what it’s like to be a long way from home by yourself in a foreign land and their goal is to create a place that feels like home.

The added bonus on top of all that good stuff? Sweet Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, they know how to lay down. Get ready for the bananas, cause that shit’s coming in hot!

Price: Dorms from €32

Hostel Celica (Ljubljana, Slovenia)

Wait… a prison? Yep, I’ve never slept in a cave nor have I slept in a prison! (I have slept in the back of a paddywagon though.)

So, it’s a unique prison hotel in Ljubljana – Slovenia’s capital. But it’s not just any accommodation… it’s a funky one! Yeah, so I’m a bit concerned there may be some mild haunting occurring, but I also once slept in a graveyard so it’s probably chill.

• Free buffet breakfast
• Cool and unique design
• Probably haunted or some shit

Dark and foreboding locations aside, they’ve actually won a crapton of awards and they’ve done a really good job of jazzing up something so morbid. You still get all the hostel goodies – plus a special price on experiencing Ljubljana Castle – except you’re in a prison!

And, if you’re not comfortable sleeping in a prison cell, they have standard dorms too. Though I do highly question why you headed all the way out to Slovenia to NOT sleep in a prison cell.

Price: Dorms from €26.10 , Private Rooms from €67.90

Caveland (Santorini, Greece)

I felt like Greece’s backpacking scene was being underrepresented and is oft forgotten by Europe travellers, so I wanted to show it some love.

So what’s unique about this European hostel? It’s just, like, an escape… plus it’s in a cave!

• Sleeping in a cave
• Quiet village location
• Pool and sea view

Located outside the capital of Santorini Island, the whole place has a quiet-retreat vibe going on. They still have all the hostel goodies (free breakfast, events, a swimming pool) but you have the added bonus of being tucked away in a Grecian village with the locals.

Oh yeah, and the cave thing? There are eight traditional cave dwellings inside the historic complex. I have slept in a lot of weird places and this is one of the weirdest!

Price: Dorms from €21.70 , Private Rooms from €36.40

Wiki Hostel & Green Village (Rome, Italy)

I wanted to put this down as the city’s best hostel, but it’s a short distance outside all of Rome’s central tourist areas so I relented. It’s a super pretty hostel, however, as well as a great hostel in Europe for families so that is why Rome gets two mentions in this list.

• Cool farm with doggies
• No bunk beds!
• Cool social kitchen vibe

It’s a sustainable hostel , plastic-free, and boasts its own farm and cute critter-life. Located in the Roman Hills, there’s a wealth of gorgeous nature around and you can organise to get involved in hiking or just help out on the farm.

The freebies are a nice touch too: free rides to the train station, free breakfast, free sauna (boom)… there’s even a slackline! All these goodies combined with the nature yumminess and the distance from the city centre of an admittedly hectic city means it’s a unique hostel in Europe not just for families but also couples seeking a getaway (on a budget).

Price: Dorms from €52 , Private Rooms from €75

The Best Sites for Booking Hostels in Europe

There are lots of these and they’re all the same but different:

• Hostelworld – The classical choice for backpackers worldwide and my number one choice.
• Booking.com – These guys work in a lot more fields than just hostels so you’re going to need to filter out all that hotel/villa/ ”I have too much disposable income” nonsense.
• Best Hostels in London
• Best Hostels in Paris
• Best Hostels in Amsterdam
• Best Hostels in Berlin
• Best Hostels in Barcelona
• Best Hostels in Lisbon
• Best Hostels in Rome
• Best Hostels in Zagreb
• Best Hostels in Copenhagen
• Best Hostels in Krakow
• Best Hostels in Budapest
• Best Hostels in Ljubljana
• Best Hostels in UK
• Best Hostels in France
• Best Hostels in Germany
• Best Hostels in Spain
• Best Hostels in Portugal
• Best Hostels in Italy

Get Insured Before Hostelling in Europe

Mmm, yum, drugs, booze, sleepless nights, and unprotected sex with strangers: my favourite! Hostels can involve some pretty reckless adventures and travel insurance for Europe is there to keep you safe.

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.

What coverage! If you weren’t feeling the vibe of staying in hostels in Europe before, I bet you are now.

If all you’re seeking is the typical European backpacking hostel experience, that’s easy… Super easy. And you’ll have an awesome time too! Just because a lot of the classical capitals are tourist traps doesn’t mean they aren’t also filled with culture, history, and secrets to unearth from beneath the grime.

But, as I hope I’ve made clear, Europe is big and filled with countries I often even forget are countries. Just check out Eurovision! You wanna talk about bananas, there’re your goddamn bananas!

So go out there and get exploring: it’s a big continent. From the trance of Berlin to the trees of the Balkans, there is a lot to see. And since you’ll be exploring some of Europe’s finest hostel offerings, you’re going to meet a lot of fantastic humans too!

I’d even be so bold as to say that you’re probably going to make some friends. Just gotta head on down to Ye Olde Inn – the backpacker hostel.

Bring a towel.

• Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Europe for a wealth of info!
• Remember to grab yourself an international SIM card for Europe to avoid any issues. 
• Get yourself covered with travel insurance for Europe before you leave.
• Our in-depth Backpacking Eastern Europe  guide has heaps of info for your trip.
• Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list .
• Backpackers and frugal travellers can use our budget travel guide.

Buy Us a Coffee !

A couple of you lovely readers suggested we set up a tip jar for direct support as an alternative to booking through our links. So we created one!

You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

The Broke Backpacker

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Would anybody freak out if a Boomer showed up?

Certainly I would hope not, Steve!

great article, well informed for a newbie, just venturing to Europe from the us…

what is the average size of the lockers? will it fit a full-size suitcase or a 65l back pack?

For the most part, yes. Lockers can generally accommodate your whole backpack.

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Where Kamala Harris Stands on the Issues: Abortion, Immigration and More

She wants to protect the right to abortion nationally. Here’s what else to know about her positions.

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By Maggie Astor

• Published July 21, 2024 Updated Aug. 24, 2024

With Vice President Kamala Harris having replaced President Biden on the Democratic ticket, her stances on key issues will be scrutinized by both parties and the nation’s voters.

She has a long record in politics: as district attorney of San Francisco, as attorney general of California, as a senator, as a presidential candidate and as vice president.

Here is an overview of where she stands.

Ms. Harris supports legislation that would protect the right to abortion nationally, as Roe v. Wade did before it was overturned in 2022, in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization.

After the Dobbs ruling, she became central to the Biden campaign’s efforts to keep the spotlight on abortion, given that Mr. Biden — with his personal discomfort with abortion and his support for restrictions earlier in his career — was a flawed messenger. In March, she made what was believed to be the first official visit to an abortion clinic by a president or vice president.

She consistently supported abortion rights during her time in the Senate, including cosponsoring legislation that would have banned common state-level restrictions, like requiring doctors to perform specific tests or have hospital admitting privileges in order to provide abortions.

As a presidential candidate in 2019, she argued that states with a history of restricting abortion rights in violation of Roe should be subject to what is known as pre-clearance for new abortion laws — those laws would have to be federally approved before they could take effect. That proposal is not viable now that the Supreme Court has overturned Roe.

Climate change

Ms. Harris has supported the Biden administration’s climate efforts , including legislation that provided hundreds of billions of dollars in tax credits and rebates for renewable energy and electric vehicles.

“It is clear the clock is not just ticking, it is banging,” she said in a speech last year , referring to increasingly severe and frequent disasters spurred by climate change. “And that is why, one year ago, President Biden and I made the largest climate investment in America’s history.”

During her 2020 presidential campaign, she emphasized the need for environmental justice , a framework that calls for policies to address the adverse effects that climate change has on poor communities and people of color. She has emphasized that as vice president as well.

In 2019, Ms. Harris, then a senator, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Democrat of New York, introduced legislation that would have evaluated environmental rules and laws by how they affected low-income communities. It would have also established an independent Office of Climate and Environmental Justice Accountability and created a “senior adviser on climate justice” within several federal agencies. In 2020, Ms. Harris introduced a more sweeping version of the bill. None of the legislation was passed.

Ms. Harris was tasked with leading the Biden administration’s efforts to secure voting rights legislation, a job she asked for . The legislation — which went through several iterations but was ultimately blocked in the Senate — would have countered voting restrictions in Republican-led states, limited gerrymandering and regulated campaign finance more strictly.

This year, she met with voting rights advocates and described a strategy that included creating a task force on threats to election workers and challenging state voting restrictions in court.

She has condemned former President Donald J. Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election results. In a speech in 2022 marking the anniversary of the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, she said that day had showed “what our nation would look like if the forces who seek to dismantle our democracy are successful.” She added, “What was at stake then, and now, is the right to have our future decided the way the Constitution prescribes it: by we the people, all the people.”

Economic policy

In campaign events this year, Ms. Harris has promoted the Biden administration’s economic policies, including the infrastructure bill that Mr. Biden signed, funding for small businesses, a provision in the Inflation Reduction Act that capped the cost of insulin for people on Medicare and student debt forgiveness.

She indicated at an event in May that the administration’s policies to combat climate change would also bring economic benefits by creating jobs in the renewable energy industry. At another event , she promoted more than $100 million in Energy Department grants for auto parts manufacturers to pivot to electric vehicles, which she said would “help to keep our auto supply chains here in America.”

As a senator, she introduced legislation that would have provided a tax credit of up to $6,000 for middle- and low-income families, a proposal she emphasized during her presidential campaign as a way to address income inequality.

Immigration

One of Ms. Harris’s mandates as vice president has been to address the root causes of migration from Latin America, like poverty and violence in migrants’ home countries. Last year, she announced $950 million in pledges from private companies to support Central American communities. Similar commitments made previously totaled about $3 billion.

In 2021, she visited the U.S.-Mexico border and said : “This issue cannot be reduced to a political issue. We’re talking about children, we’re talking about families, we are talking about suffering.”

More recently, she backed a bipartisan border security deal that Mr. Biden endorsed but Mr. Trump, by urging Republican lawmakers to kill it , effectively torpedoed. The legislation would have closed the border if crossings reached a set threshold, and it would have funded thousands of new border security agents and asylum officers. “We are very clear, and I think most Americans are clear, that we have a broken immigration system and we need to fix it,” Ms. Harris said in March .

Israel and Gaza

Ms. Harris called in March for an “immediate cease-fire” in Gaza and described the situation there as a “humanitarian catastrophe.” She said that “the threat Hamas poses to the people of Israel must be eliminated” but also that “too many innocent Palestinians have been killed.”

In an interview later that month , she emphasized her opposition to an Israeli invasion of Rafah, the city in southern Gaza to which more than a million people had fled. “I have studied the maps,” she said. “There’s nowhere for those folks to go, and we’re looking at about 1.5 million people in Rafah who are there because they were told to go there, most of them.”

She has said on multiple occasions that she supports a two-state solution.

Racial justice

Racial justice was a theme of Ms. Harris’s presidential campaign. In a memorable debate exchange in 2019 , she denounced Mr. Biden’s past work with segregationist senators and opposition to school busing mandates.

She has called for ending mandatory minimum sentences, cash bail and the death penalty, which disproportionately affect people of color.

Amid the protests that followed the police killing of George Floyd in 2020, she was one of the senators who introduced the Justice in Policing Act, which would have made it easier to prosecute police officers, created a national registry of police misconduct and required officers to complete training on racial profiling. It was not passed.

Her record as a prosecutor also came into play during her presidential campaign. Critics noted that as attorney general of California, she had generally avoided stepping in to investigate police killings.

Maggie Astor covers politics for The New York Times, focusing on breaking news, policies, campaigns and how underrepresented or marginalized groups are affected by political systems. More about Maggie Astor