What is a Hostel?
This article is a high-level overview of what a hostel is. If you would like a pros and cons list of what it’s like to stay in a hostel, click on the link below.
A hostel is a budget-friendly accommodation that encourages a social atmosphere amongst its guests. Guests can stay in a dormitory-style room with multiple people or a private room at a higher cost. The average price range for a bed in a dorm at a hostel can range from $20-$80 per night, depending on the city and time of year.
Who stays in a hostel?
People of all ages will stay in hostels. The type of hostel you stay in will usually attract specific kinds of people, but there is no guarantee.
A party hostel will attract people who want to drink, stay up late, and go out as a group.
A youth hostel will likely have parents with kids staying at them.
It’s best to decide what you want to get out of your stay at a hostel and choose accordingly. You do not want to regret wasting money on your accommodation as it is a big part of your travel budget.
Hostel Types
Here is a list of different types of Hostels.
Party
Budget
Adventure
Luxury
Boutique
Family
Youth
Solo Traveler
Couples
Eco-Friendly
The type of kitchen you will see on average in a Hostel.
Amenities
Hostels will provide various amenities that guests can utilize to make their stay more enjoyable.
List of amenities.
Rooftop Terrace
Movie Room
Kitchen
Lockers
Luggage Storage
Bar
Restaurant
Club
Common Room
Library
Laundry Facilities
Swimming Pools
Social Events
Hostels will provide different events to promote guest interaction. This is an excellent opportunity for solo travelers and introverts to meet new people.
List of social events.
Bar/Pub Crawl
Game Night
Family Dinner
Solo Traveler’s Dinner
Walking Tours
Drunk Bowling
Beach Day
Picnics
Beds
Unless you pay for a private room, you will likely be placed in a room with bunk beds solely or mostly. Some hostels do not use bunk beds, so be sure to check the pictures in the listing or even call to verify the sleeping arrangements.
Each person in the room gets assigned a bed and corresponding locker number. Locks are provided by you.
Luggage Security
Hostels will provide you with a specific area to lock up your valuables. Whether it’s a locker or a cage that slides in and out from under your bed, you are provided some lockable storage. It is essential to know that you must always provide the lock.
Are Hostels Safe?
Hostels are safe. You will even come across people who believe they are safer than other accommodation options. Most hostels have someone at reception 24/7, key cards are required to get in late at night, non-hostel guests are not allowed in the rooms, and the sheer number of eyes everywhere helps. If you are staying in a 16-person room that is full, there are 16 pairs of eyes looking out for one another.
Conclusion
Staying in a hostel is an experience everyone should try at least once. The number of stories you will come home with will beat any story from any other accommodation type. If you’re a solo traveler, or even traveling with one or two friends, and want to meet people while saving money, a hostel is your best bet.