Let’s be real, you’re finally setting off on that epic backpacking trip, a world of possibilities buzzing in your head. But one question nags! Where to lay your head at night? Hotels can break the bank, but fear not, that’s where hostels come in! Think affordability, a vibrant social scene, and a dash of unpredictability (I’ve had some of my best nights and worst in a hostel)– that’s the hostel experience in a nutshell.
Be sure to take a look at our other guides to Solo Travel, such as Backpacking Europe: 17 Essentials for Your Next Adventure and Collecting Memories, Not Things: Why Backpacking Wins. Enjoy.
Why Hostels?
Your Wallet’s Best Friend: Hostels are the key to making those travel funds stretch further, and let’s be honest nobody wants to be spending more than they have to. You’re basically paying for a bed and a place to chill, making it possible to see more and do more.
Meet Your Travel Tribe: Forget lonely hotel rooms! Hostels are social hubs full of like-minded adventurers. Swap travel tales over breakfast, grab a drink with new friends, and maybe even find a partner-in-crime for that next excursion. I make most of my travel buddies on excursions.
Embrace the Unexpected: Hostels are full of surprises. You might stumble upon a hidden rooftop hangout, impromptu jam session, or a local leading a free walking tour. It’s all part of the adventure!
Tip: Take a Free Walking Tour as these are the best way to make friends.
Find the best Hostels!
The Types of Hostels
The Party Hostel
Prepare to be in the heart of the action! These hostels boast a vibrant social scene, with common areas abuzz with activity well into the night. Think organised bar crawls, themed parties, and the chance to make friends fast. If you thrive on socialising and a “sleep when I get home” mentality, this is your spot. Just be prepared – quiet nights might be a rare luxury.
The Classy Boutique Hostel
Imagine hostel life… with a touch of sophistication. Expect a focus on design, a balance of social areas and calmer zones, and possibly a mix of private rooms alongside stylish dorms. These hostels attract travellers who want the social hostel experience but appreciate a bit more refinement and potential for a less chaotic night’s sleep.
The No-Frills Hostel
If your mantra is “I just need a place to crash,” this one’s for you. No-frills hostels prioritise the basics: a clean bed, functional bathrooms, and sometimes a simple communal kitchen. It’s the champion of budget travellers who spend their days out and about, prioritising experiences over fancy amenities.
The Quirky Hostel
Forget cookie-cutter dorms! Quirky hostels embrace the unique and unexpected. Picture sleeping in a converted train car, a treehouse-themed dorm, or even a floating hostel. These places scream “Instagrammable” and are guaranteed to add a memorable twist to your backpacking trip. Be warned, they might be pricier or further from the city centre, but the experience is priceless.
Related articles: Hostel Etiquette: 8 MUST-KNOW Rules for Hostels
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How to Survive in a Hostel
Pack for Shared Living
Think beyond the essentials! A portable clothesline can be a lifesaver if you need to hand wash a few items in your room. A deck of cards or a small travel game breaks the ice with new dorm mates. And if you’re an incredibly light sleeper, noise-cancelling headphones might be worth the investment.
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Essential Items to Make Hostel Life Easier
Earplugs: Your Ticket to Tranquility: Think of them as your shield against the symphony of snores, rustling bags, and late-night chatter that inevitably comes with shared rooms. Opt for a good quality pair, maybe even try out a few different types to find your perfect sleep saviours.
Sleep Mask: Blackout Bliss: Let’s face it, hostel curtains aren’t always up to the task. A sleep mask is your portable blackout system, especially handy if roommates have a different sleep schedule or that early morning sun loves to peek through.
Travel Towel: The Lightweight Champ Bulky bath towels are a backpacker’s enemy. Travel towels are designed to be super absorbent, dry in a flash, and fold up tiny. Plus, you won’t get hit with those surprise hostel towel rental fees that can sneak up on your budget.
Padlock: Peace of Mind: Most hostels have lockers, but rarely provide padlocks. Invest in a sturdy one to safeguard your passport, electronics, and those few items you don’t want to lug around all day. Choose a combination lock so you don’t have to worry about losing a tiny key!
Bonus Essentials: Think about your personal needs, here are a few extras that can be lifesavers:
- Flip Flops: Mandatory for those shared showers, and surprisingly handy around the hostel too.
- Small First Aid Kit: Blisters happen, especially when breaking in new hiking boots!
- Eye Drops & Hand Sanitiser: Travel can be dusty, a little dryness relief can go a long way, and hand gel for obvious reasons!
Things You Don't Do in a Hostel
Be the Midnight DJ: Your awesome playlist might not be everyone’s late-night jam. Headphones are a hosteller’s best friend – keep the music and podcasts to yourself, especially when it’s time to wind down.
Treat the Kitchen Like Your Personal Buffet: Hostel kitchens are communal territory. Label your food clearly with your name and check-out date, don’t be tempted by that unclaimed yogurt, and always, always, clean up after yourself. It’s basic respect and helps keep the kitchen a place everyone wants to use.
Be a Bathroom Slob: No one wants to encounter a mystery puddle or a sink full of toothpaste residue. Do your part! Wipe down counters, be mindful of stray hairs (ew!), and give the toilets a courtesy flush. Your dorm-mates will silently thank you.
Extra Consideration: Here’s one that often gets overlooked:
- Don’t Pack Your Whole Life at 3 AM: Late-night arrivals happen, but try to minimise noise if your roommates are already snoozing. Pack smart (put those noisy toiletries in an easy-to-reach pouch), and use a headlamp with a red light setting instead of blasting the main lights.
How to Book a Hostel
Hostelworld (hostelworld.com): The go-to for many backpackers. It has a huge selection of hostels worldwide, user-friendly filters, and a vast database of reviews.
Booking.com (booking.com): While known for hotels, it also has a growing hostel selection. It often boasts competitive prices and a familiar interface.
Tip: Don’t limit yourself to just these two! Sometimes, smaller regional platforms or even a hostel’s own website can offer better deals or more detailed information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are hostels safe?
Most definitely! They generally have good security measures. Do your research, use lockers, and trust your gut.
Is there an age limit?
Usually not! Hostels welcome travellers of all ages.
Can I book a private room?
Absolutely! Many hostels offer this option alongside dorms.
Can couples stay in hostels?
Absolutely! While many hostels offer dorm rooms, a growing number cater to couples with private rooms. These often provide the same social hostel atmosphere, with the bonus of a little privacy at the end of the day.
Do hostels have kitchens?
Many do! Hostel kitchens range from simple setups with a few stovetops to fully-equipped spaces where you can channel your inner chef. They are a great way to save money on meals and potentially meet other foodie travellers.
Final Thoughts
Hostels aren’t just a place to sleep; they’re a key part of the whole backpacking experience. Embrace the social spirit, step a bit outside your comfort zone, and you might just make memories (and friends) that last a lifetime. Don’t forget the ear plugs and a little patience!!
So, are you ready to dive into the world of hostels? Tell us about your favourite hostel experiences in the comments below!
Related articles: Finding Your Solo Travel Groove: Tips to Enjoy Your Own Company
Recommended websites and sources: Hostelworld , Booking.com
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