Alright, folks, let’s have a chat about hostels! It’s a love ’em or hate ’em situation, no middle ground here.
Maybe you’re dreaming of the ever romantic notion of “backpacking” across Europe, letting the wind be your guide and finding a hostel in whichever little European town you land in.
While this notion is a great idea, and I’m sure it’s worked out for many a wandering traveler, sometimes you need to do your research and put in just a little bit of work before resting your head for the night in just any old place.
Many people I’ve spoken to hold a negative view of hostels due to rumors of bed bugs, unpleasant roommates, and well, thin walls.
Having had my fair share of hostel experiences, I can say there are pros and cons, but personally, I’ve never had a terrible (or gross!) time. They’re budget-friendly, generally clean, and perfect for just crashing for the night if you don’t plan to spend much time in your room!
Before booking a stay at any hostel, do your homework and then some. Check out reviews, scour the web for photos, look at their social media, and read the comments. If a place has a bad rep, you’ll hear about it.
So, what are the upsides and downsides from a seasoned hostel-goer’s perspective? Let’s delve in!
Pros:
Affordable. Prices range from $40 to $90 per night depending on location and season. Some even include breakfast!
Social. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a small group, hostels are fantastic for meeting fellow travelers and forming new connections.
Knowledgeable. Hostel staff often provide city navigation tips, suggest must-see attractions, and share local insights – a valuable resource when you’re abroad.
Cons:
Shared rooms. The main drawback; sharing a room with a stranger. While many hostels offer same-sex rooms or even private rooms for 2-4 people, you’ll likely be bunking with someone unfamiliar.
Cleanliness. Though hostels usually provide clean sheets, shared areas aren’t typically cleaned daily, so the bathroom cleanliness depends on the previous user… and we all know cleanliness standards can vary from person to person.
Noise. Light sleepers take note – thin walls and roommates coming and going at all hours can disrupt your sleep. Bring good headphones!
Hostels are ideal for quick stopovers, brief explorations of small areas, or when sticking to a tight budget. If you’re ever planning a trip and need to keep it on the budget friendly side or just want to rub elbows with some fellow travelers at a hostel make sure to check out our post, The Best Hostels Around the World, for our top picks!
With thorough research to ensure safety, choosing a reputable hostel, and the right mindset (remember, it’s not a luxury hotel), you’ll survive and likely have some interesting tales to share!
