No one starts out as a travel expert. Between knowing where to go, how to get around, what you should be paying for and most importantly how to stay safe in new environments, it can be very overwhelming.
Hostels offer a travel community that is great not only for those on a budget but also for solo travelers looking to connect with other like minded individuals. However, for new travelers, bunking in a room with strangers is understandably nerve-wracking.
If you are mindful of your surroundings and follow a few simple courtesy and safety rules, you may just find out why so many people prefer this community lifestyle over other traditional travel arrangements.
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Choosing Your Room
Most hostels provide a variety of different room types to choose from.
It is not unusual to have co-ed, same sex and even completely private room options. The price will vary dependent on the style of dormitory you choose, and the amount of beds in the bunk room.
Traditionally the more beds, the more affordable the cost.
For example, a bunk room that has 10 beds in it with both male and female travelers may be 20 dollars a night, while the bunk room with 4 female only beds in it may cost 40 dollars. The most important factor is you feel safe.
If you're new to this style of travel consider paying a bit more to put your mind at ease as you start to understand the lifestyle.
Other important things you should consider when picking out your room could be but are not limited to...
Privacy curtains on the beds
A cage or locker to lock up valuable items
Private shower rooms Many hostels offer same sex only bathrooms and shower houses but some even offer one attached to the bunk room
Bunk bed availability lower or upper bunk preference
Still unsure if staying in a hostel is the right choice for your trip? Check out "Hotels vs. Hostels: Which Accommodation Option is Right for You?" for more details.
Safety
Do your research
Booking services such as Hostel World are full of reviews from other travelers. These reviews cover the cleanliness, atmosphere, and overall experience of thousands of hostels worldwide. Ensure that your accommodation choice has been reviewed beforehand and meets all your criteria.
Don't flaunt your valuables
Keep expensive items either on your person or locked up.
Make friends
Interacting with other travelers will help extend your safety net. Travelers can help look after each other if other hostel guests try anything fishy.
If you see something, say something
A hostel is a safe, shared space and only continues to stay a safe place if we all do our part in keeping the environment that way. If you or any one of your friends feel uncomfortable or unsafe make sure to notify a staff member. They're there to help and will act promptly to correct any issues or concerns.
Use your instincts
As always, when traveling, trust your instincts if you continue to feel unsafe or unsure about your living space, or the people around you, don’t be hesitant to leave.
Other Important Stuff to Know
What to pack
Light sleeper? don't forget your face mask and ear plugs. Be sure to bring a lock, as it usually isn't included in the booking. Ensure your suitcase is packed with all essentials before your hostel stay. Check out "Hostel Travel: 8 Necessary Things to Pack" to guarantee you are well-prepared.
Luggage storage
Some hostels offer a free place to store your day bags/suitcases before official check in or on the day of your checkout. Take advantage of these resources to ensure you spend as much time exploring your location as possible and less time dragging around heavy backpacks.
Look for free breakfast and wifi
Lots of hostels will include some sort of free meal such as breakfast or even community dinners. One meal a day can really add up to saving a LOT when you're traveling!
Use community spaces
Spend time outside of your dorm room. You’ll be surprised how easy it is to make friends just by being out and about! Lots of solo travelers are in the same place as you and are also eager to make friends and hear your travel plans. Learn from your fellow travelers and if you're nervous to explore alone don't be afraid to make group plans.
Depending on the hostel, additional amenities may include kitchens (often equipped with cooking pots, pans, and dining utensils), living spaces, outdoor areas, and even coffee shops or bars.
Respect your roommates
People stay in hostels for lots of different reasons: community, affordability, vacation, sports trips etc. Respect that at any point your fellow bunk mates may be sleeping due to different travel schedules.
Don't yell in the hallways and mind your noise levels. Be mindful of light usage and space you take up. Quiet time hours are there for a reason. Show the same respect to others you'd want to receive while you are resting.
If you're up for hanging out, chatting, and playing games, the community spaces are perfect for you- next to your sleeping roommate? not as great.
Clean up after yourself
Although we want you to feel safe and comfortable, all other travelers passing through the hostel deserve that same right. Keep your space tidy, wash your dishes and put them back where they belong, eat in designated dining areas and follow the rules allocated by the hostel. Hostel staff are there to ensure safety NOT to constantly clean up your messes.
Ask for staff recommendations
First time visiting a new location? Ask the staff about local recommendations or what they love most about the area. It's quite common to find local favorites (eats, trips, shopping, nature walks etc.) posted somewhere in the hostel as well.
Lots of hostels offer tours leaving and coming from their location for those a bit more weary of exploring alone, or wanting to connect with those staying in the same place.
Splitting a room with strangers from all over the world can be intimidating, but also opens up window of opportunity to make amazing friends from different cultures with different experiences to share.
By being aware, prioritizing safety, and keeping an open mind, staying in a hostel can save you money while providing a community of like-minded travel friends - An experience not easily found in other types of accommodations.
Have you ever considered staying in a hostel before? What are the main things that make you hesitant to try? Let us know in the comments below!
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Sending Love from Ireland,
Kaitlyn
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