In this guide, I’ll explain why hostels are one of the top affordable accommodation choices for international travelers. They’re becoming increasingly popular, especially among millennials and solo adventurers, thanks to their low cost, social atmosphere, and unique shared-space setup.
If you're more familiar with traditional hotels, staying in a hostel might feel like a big change. That’s why I’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of your first hostel experience.
What Is a Hostel?
Hostels usually offer dorm-style sleeping arrangements, often with bunk beds. Each guest is assigned a bed and given a secure place to store their personal belongings. Bathrooms, showers, kitchens, and lounge areas are shared with other travelers, which helps create a friendly and social atmosphere.
Unlike hotels, hostels don’t typically include extras like turndown service, fresh towels, or room service. They keep things simple to stay affordable. You’ll usually find just a couple of staff members on site, who not only help with questions but often organize social events to help guests connect.
What Kind of Travelers Stay in Hostels?
Most hostel guests are budget-conscious solo travelers, backpackers, and students, often under the age of 35. But hostels are truly for everyone. During your stay, you’re likely to meet people from all over the world, each with their own stories and travel tips to share.
Hostels are a great fit for travelers who plan to spend most of their time exploring rather than hanging out in their rooms. Whether you're taking a gap year, working remotely as a digital nomad, or just passing through, hostels attract people from all backgrounds who are open to simple, no-fuss accommodations.
If basic isn’t quite your thing, you might enjoy staying in a boutique hostel. These places offer a more intimate vibe, often with creative design themes and a cozier atmosphere.
Pros and Cons
It's important to weigh the pros and cons of staying in a hostel so you know exactly what to expect before booking. Hostels aren't for everyone, mainly because of the shared dorm-style sleeping arrangements and the limited amenities.
Pros: Hostels offer several appealing benefits for travelers. They’re known for their inexpensive prices, making them a great choice for those on a budget. They also provide plenty of social opportunities, which is perfect if you enjoy meeting fellow travelers. Many hostels are located in prime spots, especially in cities like Barcelona, Amsterdam, London, and Paris, where you can stay right in the heart of the action. They're also ideal for group travel, allowing your entire group to share one large room. On top of that, hostels often offer a more authentic experience, with locally sourced breakfasts and friendly, home-like interactions with staff and guests.
Cons: Hostels do come with a few downsides to keep in mind. One of the main drawbacks is the lack of privacy, especially with shared sleeping quarters where alone time can be hard to find. There's also a higher risk of theft, although we’ll cover some helpful safety tips below. Additionally, hostels typically offer fewer amenities compared to hotels or other types of accommodation.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're exploring the streets of Sweden or South Korea, hostels provide a unique experience by creating a sense of community among travelers from different parts of the world.
Their budget-friendly prices also give you the freedom to extend your stay and enjoy a more immersive experience in your destination. You'll have the chance to see cities through the eyes of locals and connect with new friends from across the globe. If this sounds like your ideal way to travel, it might be time to book your hostel.