Hostel Travel 101: A First-Timer’s Guide to Backpacker Hostels
For many travellers, hostels are a rite of passage — the gateway to budget-friendly adventures and instant friendships on the road. But if you’ve never stayed in one before, the idea can be a little daunting. Images of crowded bunk beds, creaky dorm rooms, and questionable showers might spring to mind. The reality? Today’s hostels are as varied as the travellers who stay in them, ranging from lively party hubs to serene boutique hideaways.
Hostels offer far more than just a cheap bed for the night. They’re a place to meet people from every corner of the globe, swap stories over a communal dinner, and pick up travel tips you won’t find in any guidebook. They can be the springboard for your best travel memories — if you know how to choose the right one and make the most of it.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know for your first hostel stay — from picking the perfect spot and packing smart to understanding etiquette and keeping your belongings safe. By the end, you’ll be ready to check in with confidence and maybe even wonder why you didn’t try it sooner.
What is a Backpacker Hostel?
A backpacker hostel is a budget-friendly accommodation designed with travellers in mind, offering shared spaces that encourage social interaction. Unlike hotels, where guests often keep to themselves, hostels thrive on community. You might find yourself swapping stories in a cosy common room, cooking in a shared kitchen, or heading out on an impromptu city tour with people you met an hour ago.
Hostels come in many styles:
Budget dorms – the classic choice with bunk beds in a shared room, ideal for keeping costs low.
Boutique hostels – stylish and design-focused, blending hostel sociability with a boutique hotel feel.
Party hostels – lively atmospheres with on-site bars, events, and organised nights out.
Eco-hostels – sustainable stays that focus on reducing environmental impact, often in unique settings.
They attract a broad mix of travellers — solo backpackers, couples on a budget, small groups, gap-year students, and even digital nomads looking for a short-term base. Whether you want to meet new people or simply enjoy affordable accommodation, there’s a hostel style to suit almost every travel personality.
Why Choose a Hostel?
For many first-time travellers, the idea of staying in a hostel comes down to one main reason — saving money. But while affordability is a big draw, it’s far from the only reason hostels remain a favourite among backpackers and seasoned travellers alike.
Cost savings and value for money
Hostels are usually much cheaper than hotels, especially in popular destinations. Even private rooms in hostels often cost less than budget hotels, making them a great choice for travellers who want to stretch their funds further.
Built-in social opportunities
One of the biggest advantages is the ready-made community. Shared dorms, communal kitchens, and organised events make it easy to meet people — whether you’re travelling solo or with friends. Many lifelong travel friendships (and even romances) start in hostel common rooms.
Prime locations
Hostels often occupy prime spots in the heart of cities, close to major attractions, transport links, and local nightlife. Some even have unique settings — from beachfront properties to converted historic buildings.
Unique atmosphere and experiences
Every hostel has its own personality. Some feel like cosy home-away-from-homes, while others buzz with activity and themed nights. You might end up staying somewhere with a rooftop bar, a hammock garden, or even an in-house cinema.
Local knowledge on tap
Hostel staff are often travellers themselves or locals who know the area inside out. They can point you towards hidden gems, budget eats, and off-the-beaten-path experiences that don’t always make it into guidebooks.
Flexibility for your travel plans
Many hostels offer flexible booking policies, so if your plans change — as they often do on the road — you can adapt without hefty cancellation fees.
Extra perks for travellers
From free walking tours to communal dinners and bike rentals, hostels often throw in added extras that make your stay more memorable and cost-effective.
How to Choose the Right Hostel
Not all hostels are created equal, and the right one for you will depend on your budget, travel style, and priorities. Here’s how to narrow down your options.
Read reviews and ratings carefully
Look beyond the overall score — read recent reviews to spot trends. Are people praising the cleanliness, security, or atmosphere? If multiple travellers mention the same issues, it’s worth noting.
Balance location and price
A cheap hostel far from the centre might cost you more in transport. Check walking distances to key sights, public transport access, and nearby amenities.
Match the atmosphere to your style
Party hostels can be fun, but they’re not ideal if you need a good night’s sleep before a 6 a.m. bus. Look for keywords in reviews like “quiet,” “social,” or “lively” to get a feel for the vibe.
Check the facilities
Lockers, 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, laundry services, kitchen access, and luggage storage can make a big difference to your comfort.
Look at dorm options
If you’re nervous about staying in a large mixed dorm, opt for smaller rooms or female-only dorms. Some hostels also offer private rooms for extra privacy while still giving you access to social spaces.
See what’s included
Breakfast, towels, and bed linen can all add up in cost if they’re not provided. Likewise, free tours or activities can be a big bonus.
Consider safety and security
Check whether the hostel has keycard access, CCTV, and secure storage for valuables.
Browse hostel photos
Pictures can reveal a lot about cleanliness, layout, and atmosphere — just remember that official photos may be staged, so cross-check with guest-uploaded images.
Booking Your First Hostel
Once you know what you’re looking for, it’s time to lock in your stay. Here’s how to book with confidence.
Use trusted booking platforms
Websites like Hostelworld, Booking.com, and Agoda are popular for their wide selection, reliable reviews, and easy filtering. You can compare prices and see photos, plus many offer free cancellation.
Compare prices across platforms
Rates can vary between booking sites and the hostel’s own website. Sometimes booking directly gets you perks like free breakfast or a better room.
Check the cancellation policy
Travel plans can change quickly, especially on the road. Look for flexible or free cancellation options, even if it costs a little more.
Book ahead for peak seasons
In busy periods — summer in Europe, Christmas in Australia, festivals — popular hostels can sell out fast. Book early to secure your spot and avoid last-minute stress.
Wing it when travelling off-season
If you’re travelling in quieter months, booking just a few days in advance can give you flexibility to change plans on the go.
Confirm your booking before arrival
A quick email or message the day before arrival can prevent any mix-ups, especially if you’re arriving late at night.
Understanding Hostel Rooms and Facilities
Knowing what to expect can make your first hostel stay far more comfortable. Hostels vary widely, but these are the most common setups and amenities you’ll come across.
Dorm types
The classic hostel setup is a shared dorm room with bunk beds. Dorm sizes range from small (4–6 beds) to large (12+ beds). Mixed dorms are common, but many hostels also offer female-only dorms for added privacy and comfort.
Private rooms
Many hostels now offer private rooms, which can be a great option if you want the social benefits of a hostel but prefer your own space for sleeping. They may have shared bathrooms or en-suite facilities, depending on the hostel.
Shared bathrooms
Bathrooms may be en-suite for certain rooms, or shared between multiple guests. Most hostels have separate male and female bathrooms, but some have unisex facilities. Expect a mix of showers, toilets, and sometimes single-use cubicles for more privacy.
Common areas
The heart of any hostel is its communal space. This could be a lounge with comfy sofas, a rooftop terrace, a garden, or even a pool area. Common rooms are where you’ll meet fellow travellers, join group activities, or simply relax after a day out.
Kitchens and dining areas
Most hostels provide a shared kitchen where you can cook your own meals, along with fridges for guest use. Some also have communal dining areas that encourage social interaction.
Extra amenities
Depending on the hostel, you might find laundry rooms, luggage storage, bike rentals, board games, libraries, or even small cinemas. Boutique and themed hostels often go the extra mile with unique features.
Hostel Etiquette 101
Sharing a space with strangers can be an amazing experience — but it works best when everyone’s considerate. Here are some basic etiquette tips to make sure you’re a great hostel guest.
Respect quiet hours
Most hostels set quiet hours, often between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. Keep noise to a minimum during these times, especially in dorm rooms, so others can rest.
Keep your space tidy
Even if you’re not the neatest person at home, try to keep your belongings organised. Avoid letting your stuff spill into other people’s spaces and keep walkways clear.
Be mindful in shared bathrooms
Take what you need and don’t linger too long if there’s a queue. Leave the space clean for the next person.
Kitchen manners
Label your food, clean up after cooking, and don’t help yourself to other people’s supplies unless they offer. Wipe down surfaces and wash your dishes promptly.
Bedside etiquette
Avoid switching on bright lights late at night or early in the morning. If you need to pack or unpack, use a small torch or your phone light and keep noise low.
Be considerate with electronics
Use headphones when listening to music or watching videos. If charging devices, unplug them once they’re full so others can use the outlets.
Respect personal space
Socialising is part of hostel life, but read the room — not everyone wants to chat all the time.
Safety Tips for First-Timers
Hostels are generally safe, but it’s worth taking a few precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Use lockers and safes
Most hostels provide lockers for each guest — bring your own sturdy padlock. Use them to store valuables like passports, electronics, and cash when you’re not in the room.
Keep valuables with you when travelling
On travel days, carry essentials like your passport, phone, and wallet in a secure daypack rather than leaving them in your main luggage.
Trust your instincts
If a person or situation makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself and let hostel staff know. Most hostels take guest safety seriously and will help.
Don’t overshare your plans
It’s fine to chat about where you’re going next, but avoid giving detailed travel information to people you’ve just met.
Be mindful of alcohol and late nights
If you’re going out, especially in a new city, stick with a group and keep an eye on your belongings.
Know the emergency exits
It might sound obvious, but take note of fire exits and evacuation routes in case of emergencies.
Making the Most of Your Hostel Stay
A hostel can be far more than just a place to sleep — it can become one of the most memorable parts of your trip. Here’s how to make the most of it.
Join hostel events and activities
Many hostels organise free walking tours, pub crawls, cooking classes, or quiz nights. They’re a great way to meet people and explore the area with company.
Spend time in common areas
The kitchen, lounge, or rooftop terrace are social hubs. Even just hanging out with a coffee can lead to new connections and travel tips.
Share meals or cook together
If your hostel has a kitchen, suggest a communal dinner. Cooking with others is budget-friendly and an easy way to bond.
Chat to the staff
Hostel staff often have the best recommendations for local eats, hidden spots, and budget-friendly attractions — things you might never find online.
Swap travel tips and contacts
Other guests may have just come from where you’re going next. Sharing advice, maps, or even transport tickets can make your journey smoother.
Keep an open mind
Hostel life attracts people from all walks of life. Embrace the variety — you might end up learning a skill, hearing an inspiring story, or planning your next trip together.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most experienced travellers make the occasional hostel misstep. Here’s how to dodge the most common ones.
Overpacking
Space in dorm rooms is limited, and large suitcases can be awkward to store. Stick to essentials and choose versatile clothing.
Ignoring hostel rules
Rules exist for a reason — often to keep the space clean, safe, and pleasant for everyone. Skipping them can quickly make you unpopular with staff and guests.
Forgetting essentials like earplugs and a sleep mask
Dorms can be noisy, especially if people are coming and going at odd hours. These small items can make a huge difference to your sleep.
Being anti-social (or overly social)
It’s fine to have quiet time, but completely avoiding interaction means missing out on one of the best parts of hostel life. On the flip side, be mindful not to dominate conversations or force interaction.
Leaving valuables unsecured
Even in safe hostels, it’s best to lock away passports, electronics, and cash when you’re not using them.
Not checking the location properly
A great price might not be worth it if you’re an hour’s bus ride from the sights. Double-check maps and transport links before booking.
Essentials for a Hostel Stay
A few well-chosen items can make your hostel experience smoother, more comfortable, and more secure.
Padlock
Essential for securing lockers — combination locks save you from carrying an extra key.
Quick-dry towel
Lightweight and easy to pack, these towels dry fast and take up less space than regular ones.
Flip-flops
Perfect for shared showers and walking around communal areas.
Earplugs and sleep mask
Help block out noise and light for a better night’s sleep, especially in busy dorms.
Portable charger
Keep your devices powered up, especially if outlets are limited.
Packing cubes or organiser bags
Keep your belongings neat and make packing and unpacking quicker.
Reusable water bottle
Saves money, reduces plastic waste, and keeps you hydrated while exploring.
Small torch or phone light
Useful for late-night packing without disturbing dorm mates.
Laundry bag
Keeps dirty clothes separate from clean ones until you can wash them.
Staying in a hostel for the first time can feel like stepping into the unknown — but it’s also a gateway to a more connected, affordable, and memorable style of travel. With the right expectations, a few essentials in your bag, and an open mind, hostel life can become one of the most rewarding parts of your journey.
You’ll meet people you never would have crossed paths with otherwise, discover places that don’t appear in guidebooks, and share moments that make travel truly special. Whether you’re chasing sunsets on the coast, exploring bustling cities, or hiking in the mountains, a hostel can be the perfect base for your adventures.
So book that bunk, say hello to your dorm mates, and dive into the experience — you might just find yourself planning your next trip around the world’s best hostels.
