Make sure you check out this week’s episode for a more detailed description of hostel life and why hostels are awesome (as well as some personal tips to make them better!)
What is a hostel?
A hostel is an inexpensive place to stay when you travel. They’re commonly known for their dorm rooms, though many do offer private rooms as well for a higher price.
In my (fairly extensive!) hostel experience, they mainly boil down to two types: the small, local hostel and the big, possibly chain, “party hostel.” There are pros and cons to both! In a smaller hostel, there will probably be fewer people and the space is more likely to be in a repurposed house or other building, rather than the renovated “college dorm” style of the larger hostels.
The larger hostels probably offer 24/7 desk support (or until very late, at least), while the owner or manager of a small hostel might not be available consistently and you have to coordinate check in time with them to make sure they’re there when you arrive. The larger hostels will also have a variety of activities, tours, and other events they recommend.
How much do hostels cost?
Usually anywhere from $8-$30 USD/night. The more expensive end of the spectrum is in Western Europe and some Asian countries (*cough* Singapore). The average is about $18-22 and depends on the country or region, the dorm size (rooms with more people are usually slightly cheaper), and what day of the week it is.
How do you book a hostel?
I recommend hostelworld.com (the episode mentions hostelbookers.com, but the site is no longer active). You can enter your location and dates and sort by the map, price, or by ratings for things like safety, cleanliness, convenience, etc.
What should you expect?
You get a bed (often a bunk bed, in which case I recommend the top bunk), access to a bathroom/shower, and sometimes a locker. Especially in the larger hostels, you may be able to rent towels, phone chargers, or USB cords, or buy items like toothbrushes, razors, etc. There is usually a kitchen where you can cook and store food, and sometimes breakfast is included or available for a price (breakfast is normally toast, cereal, and maybe a hard boiled egg or fruit).
There might also be laundry service or washing machines, a hang out space with books, games, TV, etc. Larger hostels are sometimes connected to a restaurant or bar and if so, you usually get some kind of discount.
Are they safe?
Yes, generally. Bigger hostels typically have key cards or codes to get in, and often each dorm has they own key as well. You can also check the safety ratings and reviews before you book.
…Bedbugs?
Don’t worry about it. Hostels get a bad rap for having bed bugs, but this stereotype is very outdated. Most hostels take cleanliness seriously, because they know a bedbug infestation would be detrimental to their business. You’re just as likely to encounter bedbugs in hotels as you are in hostels!
Pros
- The low price
- The social aspect–it’s very easy to meet other people
- They’re convenient and helpful (staff can offer recommendations, provide directions, give you maps, help book tours, rent bikes, translate things, etc)
Cons:
- The lack of privacy
- You usually don’t get a great night’s sleep
- The amenities can vary, some are less clean or convenient than others
Tips:
- Read the reviews before you book.
- Look at the location (how convenient is it to get there from the airport or train station? Is it near public transportation or walk-able to things you want to see?)
- Don’t be that person: be considerate, clean up after yourself
- Take advantage of what the hostel offers. They’re there to help!
- But, don’t let the hostel be your whole trip. Make sure you escape the hostel bubble and do what you want to do on your trip.
- Bring earplugs, flip flops/shower shoes, a padlock, and your own toiletries.
As always, send any questions or hostel stories to goingoutyourdoortravel@gmail.com and follow Going Out Your Door on Instagram and Facebook!
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