So you’re going on a trip and considering a hostel? Well done—hostels are an excellent way to travel, particularly if you’re on a tight budget or simply fancy getting in touch with some fascinating people from all over the globe.
But trust me, not every hostel is the same. Some are amazing, and a few that one would never suggest to my arch nemesis. So, before you book your accommodation, here’s what you need to know—based on actual experiences, not merely great pictures.
What Even Is a Hostel, Anyway?
If you’ve never stayed in one, here’s the gist: hostels are usually cheaper than hotels, and most of the time, you’re sharing a room (and sometimes a bathroom) with other travelers. Some offer private rooms, but many opt for bunk beds instead.
The vibe? Think casual, social, and a little unpredictable—in a good way. It’s like college dorms meet international travel. Some people are there to party, some just need a place to crash, and others are remote working from a bean bag.
Rooms: It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All
You may be imagining a rowdy 12-bed dorm, but hostels offer a variety of room types. Some have women-only dorms. Some offer private rooms with en-suite bathrooms. Others? Just a mattress and a dream.
Here’s the trick: read the descriptions carefully. If it says “mixed dorm,” expect both men and women. If it says “shared bathroom,” don’t assume it’s just you and your travel buddy.
Photos Lie—Reviews Don’t (Usually)
Let’s be honest, everyone makes their place look good online. But real talk? Those professional photos never capture the strange stains on the drapes or the fact that the “view” is actually a parking lot.
Read reviews—particularly those written by individuals who write like you. If you’re a solo female traveler, check what other solo women are saying. If five people mention the place was loud all night, it probably was.
Atmosphere Matters More Than Price
Some hostels are relaxed and peaceful, others are crazy. Neither is bad—it just depends on what you want.
Tired and need to catch up on sleep? Avoid the party hostels. Want to meet new people quickly? Don’t book an extremely quiet one where everyone is working remotely and wearing noise-canceling headphones.
Trust me, if you choose a hostel with the wrong atmosphere, your experience will be off. Pay attention to the tone of the reviews—it usually conveys the scene more effectively than the listing does.
Location. Location. And… Location.
You might save $10 a night staying outside the city, but you’ll lose hours getting to the fun stuff. And late-night Ubers can add up real quick. Rule of thumb? If it’s close to public transportation, within walking distance to restaurants, and in a good area, it’s worth spending a few extra dollars.
What You Get (and What You Don’t)
Not all hostels come with free stuff. Some charge for towels. Others say “free breakfast,” but only offer instant coffee and toast. Check if they have solid Wi-Fi, lockers, a functioning kitchen, and air conditioning. These little things make a huge difference.
If you’re heading to LA, you can actually get exclusive offers from Hollywood international hostel—a centrally located spot with complimentary breakfast, speedy Wi-Fi, and discounted tours.
Safety First, Always
The majority of hostels are secure, but that does not imply you can just leave your phone lying around and hope for the best. Check for lockers (you may want to bring your own lock in case), 24-hour front desks, and adequate lighting.
Read reviews for any suspicious mentions, such as people walking into the wrong rooms or items going missing.
Don’t Get Burned by the Fine Print
Seriously, scroll all the way down on that listing. Some hostels charge extra for linens (yeah, really). Others won’t let you check in past 10 p.m., and some have age restrictions you won’t see unless you’re paying attention.
It sucks to show up tired and find out you’re not allowed to stay because you’re too old—or too young.
Sharing Space: The Real Deal
If this is your first time in a hostel, just know that you won’t have tons of personal space. You’ll probably hear snoring. Someone will hog the outlet. The bathroom might be busy.
Bring earplugs. A sleep mask. Flip-flops for the shower. And patience. But hey, you might also meet someone who becomes a lifelong friend. That’s part of the magic.
Bonus: Look for Social Stuff
The best hostels make it easy to connect. I’ve stayed at places that had group dinners, walking tours, movie nights—you name it.
If you’re nervous about meeting people, these events are gold. You show up, talk about where you’re from, and suddenly you’re trading travel stories with someone from Argentina over a $1 beer.
Final Tip: Trust Your Gut
If something feels weird, skip it. If the listing seems too good to be true, it probably is. And if you walk into a place and immediately want to walk out… do it. Don’t force it. There are numerous hostels available.
Final Thoughts
The hostels are more than an inexpensive option – they are an experience. If you find one that conforms to your travel style, it will enhance your journey tenfold. So rest, read all this, and do not hesitate to ask questions before booking. Because the right hostel? That’s where the adventure begins.
