7 Realities of Staying in Hostels

Hostels can get a bad reputation from movies and media stereotypes. But what are the realities of staying in hostels in 2020? They can be some of the best ways to socialize, connect with other travelers, and have a feeling of community. Learn the 7 realities of staying in hostels in 2020 and what to expect before you book your budget accommodations.

Hostels 101

Before you book there are a couple things you should know about hostels.

1. They are cheaper than hotels + Airbnb’s
2. You are paying for a bed not a whole room
3. Some dorm rooms are mixed or female only
4. There may be private rooms available but cost more
5. You will meet people from all over the world

Picking the Right Hostel

Choosing the right hostel is very important!! Hostel World makes it really easy not to just find hostels but to give you all the information you need to know about a place to make your decision.

They have reviews, rating, photos, what the facility provides, and activities they might organize. This is all very important to know because in some countries wifi isn’t always provided, air conditioning, etc. So don’t just check the price, make sure they have all the amenities you want.

Solo Travel Blues

Solo travel can be seen as a lonely venture and it’s true sometimes you can feel isolated and alone. But I find that most of the time it can be a very social experience to travel solo. In a hostel especially you have the ability to connect to people from all over the world.

Now this isn’t always the case which is why I say most of the time. I recently stayed in a hostel that was a very weird vibe, lots of couples, and all apparently seemed like they knew each other. It was a little bit disappointing because they didn’t seem very friendly or welcoming. But that’s not the norm.

Doing Activities Alone

Doing activities by yourself might also seem isolating, not safe, or daunting to some. Hostels can be a great place to stay because a lot of them have tours they provide. That means you won’t be alone hiking in the jungle to a waterfall you’ll have others with you and a guide.

Some hostels provide this in the price and is free of charge. However, most of them do cost extra.

Traveling On A Budget

Staying in hostels as you travel the globe is one of the cheapest ways to cut costs on hotels. As a millennial traveling on a budget hotels can be expensive and a huge chunk out of your bank account. Some countries you can stay in a hostel for as little as $8 USD a night.

Countries of Hostels I have stayed in:

1. Thailand
2. Indonesia
3. Cambodia
4. United States

Southeast Asia has the cheapest prices because of the exchange rate so you can really stay in some great places for cheap! You can find more budget travel deals to save you money on your next vacation ??

What To Expect

1. People get social
2. There is usually that one guy that thinks he can play the guitar but only knows Wanderwall
3. Get used to sharing a bathroom
4. Bring Locks for your stuff
5. Bring shower shoes and if you’re like me slippers lol

Safety Staying in Hostels

Like I said bring some locks for your stuff. You don’t really know anyone you’re rooming with and don’t want to get your stuff stollen. Locks are a great way to make sure people stay out of your bags.

Your room might also have a locker with a key or your locks will work just fine. As a female solo traveler, I will stay in the female dorms instead of mixed but that’s just comfort level.

Visit my travel shop to get my favorite travel accessories including the locks mentioned above!