The Ultimate Guide to Hostel Life
Hostels are one of the best ways (IMO anyway!) to travel on a budget, meet new people, and experience destinations in a more social and immersive way.
But if you’ve never stayed in one before, you might have a few concerns. Are hostels safe? Will you have to share a room with strangers? How do you pick the right one?
As a solo traveler, I’ve stayed in dozens of hostels around the world (well, mostly Europe so far)—from (quite unfortunately) backpacker party hubs to quiet capsule hostels.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about staying in a hostel, from what they are to how to book the best one for your trip.
👉 Bookmark or pin this guide and use the links throughout to explore each topic in detail!
What is a Hostel?
A hostel is budget-friendly accommodation where you rent a bed in a shared dorm instead of a private room. Some hostels offer private rooms, but the biggest difference is the communal atmosphere. Unlike hotels, hostels are designed for interaction, with shared kitchens, lounges, and group activities.
If you’re looking for a breakdown of different hostel types, check out my full guide on what is a hostel!
How Are Hostels Different from Hotels?
Hotels offer privacy and luxury, while hostels focus on affordability and community. But what do you actually give up when staying in a hostel? I mean you can also gain…
- Price: Hostels are much cheaper than hotels.
- Privacy: In a hostel, you’ll share space with other travelers unless you book a private room.
- Social scene: Hostels make it easy to meet people, whereas hotels are more private.
There are other differences too, and sometimes I think hostels can beat hotels in terms of amenities!
Who Can Stay in a Hostel?
You don’t have to be a young backpacker to stay in a hostel. While some hostels cater specifically to party travellers, others are quiet and welcoming to digital nomads, solo travelers, and even families. Some have age restrictions, so it’s good to check before booking.
Wondering if a hostel is right for you? I believe hostels are for nearly everyone, but there are some people that should stay away!
Step 2: How to Choose & Stay in a Hostel
Once you decide to stay in a hostel, the next challenge is picking the right one. Not all hostels are the same—some are loud party spots, while others are cozy havens for digital nomads.
How to Decide Which Hostel to Stay In
Picking a hostel isn’t just about price (really, don’t pick the cheapest one! You’ll thank me later…). There are a few key things to look for:
- Location: Is it in a safe, central area?
- Reviews: Look for mentions of cleanliness, noise levels, and security.
- Atmosphere: Some hostels are social, while others are quiet and work-friendly.
- Facilities: If you like cooking, make sure the hostel has a kitchen. If you need WiFi, check that it’s reliable.
For a full guide, read: How to Choose the Right Hostel.
Are Hostels Safe?
Hostels are generally safe, but like any shared space, it’s important to take some precautions. Lock up your valuables, choose well-reviewed hostels, and be aware of your surroundings.
Hostel Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts
Being a good hostel guest makes the experience better for everyone.
- Be mindful of noise, especially in dorms.
- Keep your space tidy.
- Respect shared spaces like kitchens and common areas.
Want to make sure you’re following the unwritten rules (they are really just common sense!)? Read: Hostel Etiquette 101.
Sleeping in Hostels: How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep
If you’re worried about snoring roommates or late-night noise, here are a few essentials:
- Bring earplugs and an eye mask.
- Pick a bed away from the door if possible.
- Choose hostels with quiet hours if you’re a light sleeper.
If you struggle with sleeping in shared spaces, check out my guide to sleeping well in hostels.
Step 3: Making the Most of Hostel Life
Once you’ve booked your stay, you’ll want to make sure you’re comfortable and making the most of your time there!
Hostel Packing List: Must-Have Items
Packing for a hostel is different from packing for a hotel. Some essentials you shouldn’t forget:
- Padlock for lockers
- Flip-flops for shared bathrooms
- Earplugs and an eye mask for better sleep
I listed what you should bring to a hostel (and what you can leave at home!)
Cooking in Hostels & Saving Money
One of the best ways to save money while traveling is cooking your own meals instead of eating out. Most hostels have shared kitchens, so take advantage of them!
For tips on cooking in hostels and budget meal ideas, read about my tips on cooking in hostels and check out my own shopping list!
Staying in Hostels Long-Term – What You Need to Know
If you’re considering staying in a hostel for weeks or months, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Many hostels offer long-term stay discounts.
- Some travelers do work exchange (also called volunteering) in hostels in exchange for free accommodation.
- Making a hostel feel like home takes a bit of effort—get to know the staff and fellow travelers.
For more tips on long-term hostel stays, read about how long you can stay in a hostel.
At this point, you’re fully prepared for hostel life. Now, let’s talk about booking the best hostel for your trip.
Step 4: Booking the Best Hostel
Booking the Best Hostel: Hostelworld vs. Booking.com
Where should you book your hostel? There are a few different platforms, but Hostelworld and Booking.com are the most popular. Each has its pros and cons, depending on what you’re looking for.
Read my thoughts about the differences between these platforms, including if it’s worth it to book directly with the hostel.
My Favourite Hostels
Some of my hostel recommendations
Now Go Out There And Conquer
Hostels are an incredible way to travel, especially for solo adventurers and budget-conscious travellers like me. They offer a unique mix of affordability, social connection, and flexibility that you just don’t get with hotels.
If you’re ready to take a new step in your travel adventure, check out the best deals on Booking.com or Hostelworld!
Bookmark or pin this guide so you can refer back to it anytime you need hostel travel tips!