Hostels can be the best single way to save money when traveling but are not utilized by many people. Although they are not without their drawbacks, they offer more than just a way to cut travel costs and should be considered by more people in their travel plans.
What are hostels?
Many people are not even aware of what hostels are, and the advantages they offer travelers. Basically, they are a form of cheap accommodation without the frills that hotels usually offer. Generally, they offer a kind of dormitory style accommodation with various other amenities geared to travelers.
The origins and logic of hostels
The first youth hostel opened in Germany in 1912. They were originally called hostels since they were primarily for youth groups in need of cheap accommodations. Nowadays, hostels are open to all ages. However, it is still the young who make the most use of them.
Many people want to spend their vacations exploring and seeing the sites. They would rather spend their money in other ways that on a hotel room they will not use for much apart from sleeping. In addition, since hostels usually offer laundry facilities, guest kitchens, internet, shared books and other services travelers need, they can save on more than just hotel costs.
What to expect from hostels
While there is a huge variation in hostels, most people staying at them can expect the following:
- Shared rooms: Rooms often have bunk beds and sleep from two to eight people. If available, private rooms will cost more. While some are mixed, they are likely to be single sex.
- Common areas with facilities such as TV, lounge, kitchen, food, games, laundry, showers (if not in the rooms) etc.
- Breakfast and dinner may be served in the dining room.
Advantages of hostels
Apart from a way to save money, hostels have other perks. The most important is the social atmosphere. People staying in hostels tend to be those most interested in meeting and socializing with new people. Some hostels will also organize events and activities.
In addition, hostels are often located in interesting areas close to where tourists generally want to go and near public transportation. Some are inside unique or historic structures to include castles and lighthouses.
Disadvantages of hostels
Many people want to be served when they are on vacation and do not want to share rooms and bathrooms. Snoring, noise and other problems can keep people awake at night. Furthermore, with strangers staying together, theft is sometimes a problem.
In the past, many hostels had curfews and some even required those staying to perform certain tasks. However, most hostels have moved away from this.
Some things to keep in mind when staying at hostels
- Walk in traffic is usually fine, but reservations are a good idea to ensure a room will be open.
- It is a good idea to bring linen for sleeping on. Some hostels may not have it, and it will cost more if they do.
- Some hostels allow long-term stays.
- Hostels do not always mean cheap. High end hostels can sometimes cost more than a hotel room, and some deluxe chains have now opened.
Choosing a hostel
Not surprisingly, an internet search will turn up an abundance of sites that will allow people to search by date and location. Some hostels are part of organizations that require certain standards such as those for safety and cleanliness. The largest is Hostelling International (IH), a non-profit membership organization that includes over 4,000 hostels worldwide.
However, independent hostels are also fine. Whenever making a reservation, consider:
- Price
- Room type
- Facilities
- Location
Hostels are not located everywhere and are not for everyone, but they can be a good choice, particularly in many international destinations.
