My quick and simple

Hostel Survival Guide

My top ten tips for choosing your temporary home

Choosing a hostel can be a very daunting task (especially for first time solo travellers). I know I ran into my fair share of grief over booking hostels in my recent experience backpacking across Europe for five months. But it didn’t take me long to adjust to the hostel life and soon I was thriving in the life of shared accommodation. Well, trying to thrive for the most part. Sometimes a bit of strife is unavoidable but it all makes for a good story at the end. For all of you wanting to limit this strife as much as possible, I have come up with my top ten quick tips on how to survive the hostel life as comfortably as possible.

Dig Deep in the Hostel Hunt:

Embark on your hostel journey armed with platforms like HostelWorld. Personally, I found the HostelWorld app to be an absolute lifesaver when booking accommodation due to its cheaper prices and reviewing system. It’s not just browsing; it’s scouting for your temporary home.

Dive into fellow backpackers’ narratives. Their tales provide the wisdom you won’t find in any travel brochure.

Location, Location, Location:

Secure a spot with a backstage pass to the city’s heartbeat or a VIP entrance to public transport. Central locations save you from the agony of endless commuting.

Consider the neighbourhood vibe; it’s your chance to soak in the local flavour.

Safety Dance:

Fort Knox vibes are non-negotiable. Prioritize hostels with secure lockers, well-lit spaces, and fortified rooms. Unfortunately, safety is not always accessible on a budget. I remember one hostel I stayed at in Milan that provided no locks- on the lockers or even the front door!!

Play detective with reviews; safety is your top priority, and fellow travellers are the best informants.

Social Butterfly or Lone Wolf:

Decide on your hostel persona: the lively socialite in a dorm or the serene recluse in a private room.

Dorms are the pub of hostels; great for mingling. Private rooms offer solitude for those seeking a personal retreat.

Amenities are Everything:

Seek hostels with the essential trio: free Wi-Fi, communal kitchens, and laundry facilities. These are your lifelines.

Amenities make the difference between a basic stay and one that caters to your daily needs.

Penny Pinching Perfection:

Craft a budget strategy worthy of a financial thriller. Some hostels throw in a free breakfast; seize those opportunities.

Every dollar saved on accommodation is a dollar you can invest in unforgettable experiences.

Booking Jedi Moves:

Flexibility is your ally. Opt for hostels with flexible booking policies; life is unpredictable, and your accommodation plans should adapt accordingly.

The ability to tweak your plans without financial headaches is a game-changer.

Discounts Galore:

Unearth treasures in loyalty programs, student discounts, and seasonal promotions. Hostel booking platforms are your discount department store.

A little digging can reveal exclusive discounts that sweeten the deal.

Local Intel is Gold:

Consult fellow nomads and online forums for hostel recommendations. Locals spill the real tea on hidden gems that mainstream sites might overlook.

Unique, off-the-beaten-path hostels often come highly recommended by those in the know.

Around-the-Clock Check-in:

Choose hostels with 24/7 reception. Travel doesn’t adhere to a strict schedule, and neither should your access to hostel support.

Late arrivals or early departures become stress-free with a reception that’s always open.

So there you have it – your ultimate guide to mastering the art of hosteling.. Armed with these tips, you’re not just booking a bed; you’re orchestrating an experience.

Remember, it’s not just about securing a place to sleep; it’s about finding a temporary home that adds value to your journey. So, as you embark on your budget-friendly escapades, armed with insider tips and the spirit of adventure, may your hosteling experience be nothing short of legendary. Happy hosteling!!