Hostels are a fantastic housing option for traveling on a budget. The hostel experience presents an opportunity to meet people from all over the world while staying in a safe space in a great location. If you’re new to hostels, then these tips can help you to get the most out of your visit.
A room for roaming
Many hostels offer same-sex dorms, mixed dorms, and private rooms. Dorms often range in size from two bunk beds to over 10 bunks. A private room is often similarly priced to a hotel, so it’s a luxury often utilized by intimate partners traveling together, the traveler determined to get a solid night’s rest, and the person who wants to enjoy a hostel’s social amenities or often spectacular location.
Etiquette for a shared space
Sharing a dorm room is an opportunity to practice mindfulness and consideration of others. Tips: Avoid the exploding suitcase phenomenon, which means keeping your items tidy and centered around your bunk. Clean up after yourself in the shared bathroom, and be aware of water usage in areas experiencing a drought. Remember that you’ll be cohabiting with people from all over the globe, and you’re all on different schedules, so when someone is sleeping try to keep noise and overhead light use to a minimum; using your phone’s light or a small penlight can be a thoughtful gesture.
Lock and leave it
Most hostel dorm rooms feature individual lockers, and many hostels will sell you a lock. But if you pack a small padlock, then you’ll be ready for anything. Trust is great, yet putting your valuables behind a padlock grants you an air of serenity as you go about your adventures.
See no evil, hear no evil
Sharing a dorm space with slumbering strangers? Carry an eye mask and earplugs. They take up almost no backpack space, and they’re a great aid to sleeping in a new environment where people are in close quarters and on different schedules.
Pillowcase pleasures
Some travelers like to bring a pillowcase. It will probably be softer than the one that you’re offered, it will remind you of home, and it can do double-duty as an improvised laundry bag.
Towel talk
Many hostels provide a towel free of charge, and others will rent one. Bring your own or score one on arriving: it will save you money in the long run.
Sleepwear for superior slumber
Even if you normally sleep au natural, a dorm is a different experience. Your night attire should reflect sharing a communal space. PJs are perfect, but feel free to sport an extra-long T-shirt, tank top and shorts, thermal underwear, or anything that makes you and others feel comfortable.
Flipflops are fabulous
Flipflops will take you where you want to go. They keep your feet safe, clean, and they facilitate quiet perambulations. They’re lightweight and a hygienic way to walk about shared spaces.
The sweet smell of success
Most hostels will have hand soap, and some will sell toiletries. Be prepared and stress less by bringing your favorite travel-sized toiletries, from shower gel to shampoo, sunscreen to deodorant.
Respect quiet hours
If you need to be awake early, then silence your alarm ASAP. When up and about, keep noise and overhead light use to a minimum. Organize clothes and toiletries the night before, and you’re good to go.
Playing well with others
Part of the fun and personal growth of a hostel is meeting new people. Introduce yourself; it creates a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. Now relax, and enjoy your hostel experience!
