Hostels are always the go-to choice of accommodation when traveling, they're affordable, they're convenient and they're a great way to meet people! They're absolutely everywhere and are usually placed in popular areas that make it ideal for travellers who want to get in amongst the action. However, some are better than others and it's important to know what to look for when booking your accommodation so that you get the best value money and your stay there is enjoyable! Here are some factors to think about when you're booking your next hostel!
Cheaper doesn't always mean better!
This is something every traveler does at some point, I've done it and you will do it too! Booking a hostel simply because it's the cheapest of the bunch and will save a few pennies isn't always a good idea if it means you sacrifice some basic necessities and luxuries. the cheapest hostels are usually unclean, inconveniently located and a nightmare to stay in. You get what you pay for at the end of the day so why not spend a little extra for a clean shower and a comfortable bed. You're on holiday, treat yo'self!
Friendly and helpful staff!
A key aspect of a great hostel experience is the staff! The friendlier and more welcoming the staff are, the more i like the place, simple. A hostel is a temporary home and the staff should recognise that. Some of my favourite hostels in the world were captained by incredible employees who made sure everyone was happy and that their stay was a fun one! There's nothing worse than staff who make you feel unwelcome or that are reluctant to help you out!!
Knowledgable staff are the ideal resource to finding out about the surrounding areas and how to make the most of your time. They have the inside scoop on everything that's going on and the best places to eat and drink! Some of them will even join you!
Lockers and security!
I'll never understand hostels that don't supply lockers for every guest. No one wants to carry around their valuables every time they go exploring so it's a good idea to choose accommodation that has somewhere safe for your belongings! However, usually hostels don't provide padlocks, if they do you'll probably have to pay for it, so be sure to pack a few padlocks when you travel!
A common area!
Sometimes the best part of hostel life is the people you meet! I've stayed in some pretty crappy places but had the time of my life thanks to the friends I met. A dorm room isn't always enough, a good hostel will have a big common area for everyone to hang out and get to know each other, encouraging friendships and helping solo travellers meet more people!
A bar!
Now this isn't essential but it's very common to find a hostel that is connected to a bar or restaurant and usually comes with discounts for the people staying there! But be cautious, if your room is directly above a popular bar, you might not be doing much sleeping! This is where you have to choose what type of hostel you want, a party vibe or a more relaxed vibe.
Organised activities!
Try and find yourself a hostel that you can book activities through, normally they have discounted or group prices for people staying there! This also gives you a better idea of what there is to do. At the very least they can provide contribute advice, booking information and maps/brochures but the best ones can book everything for you on the spot!
A travel desk!
Much like organising activities, hostels can help you book onward transportation to help you continue on your travels, offering suggestions on companies, future hostels and even discounted travel.
Free Wifi!
Most hostels nowadays provide some form of connection to the internet either through Wifi or provided computers. If a wifi connection is something you really need, make sure you find a hostel that boasts free wifi. When backpacking South East Asia I don't think I ever paid for wifi but it seems that the majority of hostels in Australia charge you for an internet usage or offer a free one with a horrendous connection.
Good showers!
After traveling for so long now, for me, a 'good shower' constitutes as one that is somewhat clean and has consistent water pressure. In more developed countries there's typically hot water everywhere so you shouldn't struggle to find a hot shower, however, less developed countries may supply limited hot water or none at all! When you're searching for a hostel you should always refer to reviews or see with your own eyes for how clean and usable they are!
Location!
Be smart and think ahead when booking your accommodation. Make sure your hostel is in a good location for the things you want to do! There's no use in saving money on a hostel because it's outside of the city centre then paying money for transport to get there. Spend more money on a place to stay that's within walking distance to everything.
Free laundry!
If you're backpacking there's a high chance you don't have that many clothes with you and they're gonna get dirty fast! Finding a hostel with free laundry machines or at least cheap services will save you a lot of money and is extremely convenient. Of course there is also the option to hand wash your clothes in a sink too.
A great hostel won't necessarily have everything on this list but you should expect the majority of them. Avoid hostels that don't provide the bare basics that you want as a traveler. The best ones will understand a traveler's needs and wants and accommodate to them, not just taking your money and giving you a bed. They will make sure you have a good time, either by making the fun for you or telling you exactly where to go to have the best time! You can usually judge the vibe of the hostel as soon as you walk in, it's strange, like a traveler's 6th sense!
The people you meet will be what makes your trip memorable. I once stayed in a extremely cheap hostel where the power cut out for 5 days and had no locks on the dorm doors and the tiniest lockers I'd ever seen. But the people I met there gave me and a week I'll never forget. Taking the people out of a hostel you should at least be left with comfort, safety and somewhere worthy of your money. You should search for hostels that can cater for your needs and involve most of the list above!
