After having stayed in one of the best hostels I’ve ever stayed in (shoutout to Hostel Pirate – Ulcinj, Montenegro – no I’m not sponsored I just loved it there that much), I decided that it would probably be a good idea to write a quick list of what I look for in a hostel when booking – and what I’m willing to pay that bit extra for.
Sociability
After my first big backpacking trip in 2024, one of the things I’d noted down was that the hostel experience was heavily reliant on who I met. Now obviously you can’t guarantee that you’ll meet people you get on really well with, but choosing a hostel that suits you, has events organised to meet people and fits your vibe means you’re so much more likely to meet people you’ll want to explore with.
Organised Events
Okay this is very much linked to the sociability above but events (especially free/cheap evening events) are such good ways to connect with people in the hostel. Think free cocktail mixing classes in Vienna to sunset beach trips in Montenegro. Hostelworld is a great place to look and see if these exist (they’re called ‘linkups’).
Food
Free breakfasts? Free dinners even??? Sign me up. Even if the hostel is a little bit more expensive you’ll probably save money on eating out or cooking especially if you’re travelling solo.
Location
As someone who has travelled solo, location is a massive factor in terms of safety as well as convenience. For me, the closer it is to the centre and the busier streets, the better.
Price
Obviously, budget does have to come into it somewhere. I’ve stayed in a massive price range in terms of hostels, from paying as little as 6 euros for hostels in North Macedonia to 36 euros a night at Lake Bled. (On a tangent, Lake Bled is amazing and you should go but not if you’re REALLY trying to budget. I went on a quick financial recovery trip to a cheaper country rather than staying in Slovenia after that). What I’m trying to say is that it really depends on your country (and continent), city and what you’re willing to pay for.
Money saving tip for your hostels:
Search for the hostels and see how they are reviewed on places like Hostelworld and Booking.com but also see how much it is to simply book direct!
If it’s your first time backpacking, or even just looking for some extra tips, have a look at some of the articles below too!
My advice to first-time backpackers
How to Best Pick Your Next Destination
