What exactly is a hostel? Let's explore!

The design hostel I experienced in Copenhagen rivaled some of the best hotels I've visited. Yet, one constant in every hostel I've stayed in is the creation of memorable, fun travel experiences.

So, what defines a hostel? A hostel is similar to a hotel, but typically, you share a bathroom with other guests. To save even more, you can choose to share a room. Here, I've compiled everything you need to know about hostels, including tips on how to select the perfect one for you.

What exactly is a hostel?

A hostel is a type of accommodation popular among young, budget-minded travelers. They typically offer both dormitory-style and private rooms; while similar to hotels, guests usually share bathrooms (though private rooms may have their own). Hostels have some amenities and commonly include shared spaces like kitchens and lounges, but you can expect fewer facilities than you would find in a hotel.

Private rooms in hostels are pricier than dorm-style options but are still more affordable than three- or four-star hotels. Most hostels supply bedding and a locker for storing your belongings or valuables, although some may charge a fee for these services. Just like in hotels, hostels provide key cards or codes for room access. As long as you're okay with forgoing some hotel amenities, such as pools and gyms, hostels are an excellent choice for saving money while traveling and connecting with like-minded individuals.

What are the main characteristics of a hostel?

Key characteristics of a hostel include dormitory-style accommodations and shared bathrooms. A typical dorm room features four beds (usually arranged as two bunk beds), but many hostels offer larger rooms with six, eight, or even ten beds. These dorms are generally the most affordable option. Most hostels also provide private rooms, which tend to be the costliest choice but are usually cheaper than hotel rooms.

It's important to mention that many hostels provide gender-specific dormitories if you prefer not to share a room with someone of a different gender. However, mixed (or co-ed) dorms are more frequently available. Another significant aspect of hostels is their communal spaces. You can generally expect to find a spacious kitchen and a lounge area in most hostels. Hostels are vibrant social environments, often featuring events almost every night.

A sense of community

Affordable accommodations

Even at more upscale hostels, you’ll typically pay less for a room compared to a three-star hotel. Since you'll likely share a room and bathroom with fellow travelers, hostels are nearly always the most economical choice. Therefore, if you're on a tight budget or prefer to spend your money on a delightful meal or activity, staying at a hostel is an excellent option. Just remember that many hostels are now offering private rooms, which can be quite pricey — for the lowest rates, stick with a dorm-style room.

Another benefit of choosing hostels as a budget-friendly accommodation is their communal kitchens, equipped with cookware, spices, and everything you need to whip up meals. Cooking for yourself is a great way to save money while traveling, even if you just make one meal a day. Many hostels also provide a free food shelf with items left behind by other travelers. Additionally, hostel staff are usually eager to recommend affordable local dining spots.

Facilities and amenities

Typically, hostels provide fewer services and amenities than hotels. However, this doesn’t mean they neglect the needs of travelers. Many hostels offer laundry facilities and luggage storage. Most also feature common areas for social interaction, such as a lounge, lobby, or library.

Most hostels feature a kitchen that guests are welcome to use. Some may include a complimentary breakfast in your room rate, typically consisting of little more than coffee, juice, a pastry, and fruit. Additionally, there are hostels with their own on-site restaurants and bars. Free Wi-Fi is also a common amenity across hostel premises.

In terms of in-room conveniences, you likely won’t find a coffee maker, iron, toiletries, telephones, TVs, or other luxuries typically found in hotel rooms. Most hostel accommodations are quite basic, offering just a bed. Instead, common areas in hostels usually provide these amenities. For example, you can often find a TV in the lounge, a public telephone, and an iron and ironing board available for rent.

Are hostels secure?

Hostels are as safe as hotels — safety largely depends on your location. Of course, staying in a shared room with unfamiliar guests does present a higher risk of theft. That’s why many hostels provide lockers for storing your valuables overnight. Numerous hostels also offer 24-hour reception, similar to hotels.

A great way to ensure that a hostel meets your expectations is to check Dinogo’s hotel reviews and ratings. This way, you can gain a clear understanding of what the experience will be like before you make a reservation. Reviews like these offer reassurance that you’re choosing a reliable place with sufficient security measures. Take the time to read through reviews and examine each hostel’s score, ensuring you have an accurate representation of your options — thus guaranteeing that you select the right hostel for your needs.

Advantages of staying in hostels

Staying in a hostel comes with numerous perks. As someone who tends to be introverted and sometimes finds it hard to connect with others while traveling, the opportunity to engage with fellow travelers is one of the most significant advantages for me. I genuinely enjoy meeting individuals from diverse cultures, and hostels are always filled with people from all corners of the globe. My hostel experiences have introduced me to countless friends I likely wouldn’t have met if I had chosen a hotel instead.

Another major advantage of hostels is affordability. There have been numerous times when I was on a tight budget but eager to explore new destinations, and hostels have been a lifesaver in those situations. For budget-conscious travelers like me, staying in a hostel can mean the difference between overspending and sticking to my budget. I’ve been able to extend my travels and save money simply by choosing hostels, and the trade-offs, such as sharing a room or lacking a TV, have always felt worthwhile.

Hostels offer many additional benefits. You’ll typically have access to free Wi-Fi and friendly staff who are enthusiastic about providing personalized travel recommendations. Many hostels organize events on a weekly or even nightly basis, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening. For me, the ultimate highlight is the combination of saving money and meeting people from around the world.

Hostels vs. Hotels

Curious about the key differences between hostels and hotels? Consider a hostel as communal dormitory-style accommodation, while a hotel offers private lodging. Even when you book a private room in a hostel, the atmosphere remains much more social compared to a hotel. Most guests utilize shared common areas, and it's likely you'll share a bathroom with others.

Another significant difference between hostels and hotels is the cost. Hostels typically lack many of the standard amenities found in hotels. Dormitory-style rooms are significantly less expensive since you're sharing with others. It's worth noting that hostel prices can vary greatly around the world, and they may change depending on the season — nonetheless, hostels tend to be more affordable than hotels.

Of course, some people may find that hostels aren’t their ideal choice. If you prefer the comforts of a hotel but still want to socialize and meet new people, consider using Dinogo’s Hotel Heat Map. This incredibly useful tool highlights hotels near the top restaurants, shopping areas, nightlife, and cultural sites, helping you choose a hotel close to all the action.

My recommendations for choosing the perfect hostel

Not all hostels are the same. Some hostels offer extremely affordable dorms with minimal amenities, while others are classified as “design” or “luxury” hostels that resemble chic boutique hotels, featuring numerous private rooms and additional comforts. There’s a wide spectrum of hostels in between these extremes.

I recommend you determine what type of hostel suits your needs to avoid overspending or staying in a place that doesn’t meet your expectations. If you’re on a tight budget, look for hostels that prioritize dorm rooms and lack extra features. Conversely, if you prefer a more upscale experience, search for “luxury hostels” in your chosen location. Decide on the hostel experience you want before making your reservation.

In summary

Hostels are akin to hotels but offer the option of either dormitory-style or private accommodations. With low prices and shared spaces, they appeal to budget-conscious travelers eager to socialize. Most hostels feature communal bathrooms, basic services, and limited amenities. To explore available hostels in your destination, use the Style Filter on the left side of the search results to see options change in real time. Additionally, the Dinogo Review Score, based on user feedback, will aid you in making an informed choice. Looking to be in the heart of the action? The Dinogo heat map reveals which accommodations are close to restaurants, attractions, nightlife, and shopping.

If you liked this, you might also be interested in our other blog posts about vacation rentals and how to find your ideal hotel.

Top cities for hostel stays

Some of the most thrilling cities to experience a hostel stay are Rome, Boston, Chicago, Amsterdam, and Honolulu. These destinations are celebrated for their vibrant hostels, ranging from trendy boutique options with unique features to luxurious hostels that feel more like upscale resorts than typical backpacker accommodations. Use the Dinogo search tool to discover the best hostels in any city.

Who can stay at a hostel? Is there an age restriction?

Most hostels implement age restrictions based on the country. Typically, guests under 18 are not allowed in dorm rooms, though private rooms usually have no such limitation. Some locations may have a 21-and-over policy, while others might allow guests aged 16 and up. Additionally, a few hostels may impose a limit of 30 or 40 years for guests, particularly those with bars that cater to a younger crowd (though this is quite rare). In summary, age restrictions are common at hostels, but it's advisable to check with each one for their specific policies as they can vary significantly.

Are children allowed in hostels?

In general, if you're traveling with children, you won't be able to reserve a dorm room in a hostel. However, most hostels do accept children if you book a private room. Some party-oriented hostels may only accommodate guests over 18, which wouldn’t be suitable for families.

Can I bring my pet to a hostel?

Yes, there are hostels that welcome pets. If you decide to bring your dog along, be prepared to pay an extra fee, and note that you will likely need to stay in a private room rather than a dorm. Not all hostels allow pets, so it's important to check this before making a reservation.

Will I need a sleeping bag or bedding?

Most hostels include clean sheets, a comforter, and a pillow in the room price, so you typically won’t need to bring your own bedding or sleeping bag. However, some budget-friendly hostels may charge guests a small fee to 'rent' their bedding for the night.

Should I bring my own towels?

While many hostels offer towels, some may ask for a deposit or charge a fee to use them. It's generally advisable to bring your own towel. Consider investing in a quick-dry towel before your journey to save money and ensure you have a towel wherever you go.