Hostels are budget travel’s best invention — affordable, social, and available in virtually every city on Earth. Here’s how to make the most of them.
How to Choose
- Hostelworld rating 8.5+: Reliably good. Check reviews for cleanliness, location, and atmosphere
- Location: Central = more expensive but saves transport costs. Check walking distance to main attractions
- Private vs dorm: Dorms ($5-25) are social; privates ($20-60) offer quiet comfort
- Facilities: Kitchen (saves food costs), locker (security), common area (meeting people)
Hostel Etiquette
- Don’t be the person rustling plastic bags at 3 AM
- Use headphones after quiet hours
- Don’t monopolize the bathroom
- Clean up after yourself in the kitchen
- Be friendly — that person in the next bunk might become a travel companion
Packing for Hostels
- Padlock for lockers (bring your own)
- Earplugs and eye mask (essential for dorm sleeping)
- Quick-dry towel (some hostels charge for towel rental)
- Flip-flops for shared showers
Final Thoughts
The magic of hostels isn’t the price — it’s the people. Some of the best travel friendships start over a shared hostel breakfast or a rooftop beer with fellow travelers from around the world.
