10 Essential Backpacker Hostel Hacks
Posted: January 31, 2025 | Tagged: Travel Hacks
I've been a backpacker for 33 years now. I have travelled hardcore through more than 120 countries and have stayed in so many hostels that I have lost count. Backpacker Hostels are a great way to save money and meet other travellers, but while many hostels are great, some can be a nightmare, it depends on the set-up and the guests there at the same time as you.
These are my 10 Essential Backpacker Hostel Hacks.
These are my 10 Essential Backpacker Hostel Hacks.
1. Find The Cheapest Deal:
Check all the available booking sites: Booking, HostelWorld, Agoda, etc and try to contact the hostel through FB or WhatsApp or even their own website and ask what the deals are.
2. All-You-Can-Eat Breakfast Buffets:
Many hostels have All-You-Can-Eat breakfast buffets, which can save you a lot of money. At the Palmers Lodge Hostel in London, I was paying £7 and ate my fill and then some.
Photo from the Kex Hostel in Reykjavik, Iceland:
Photo from the Kex Hostel in Reykjavik, Iceland:
3. Rooftop or Balcony:
Some hostels offer laundry services but most are NOT cheap. I still prefer to wash my own stuff. I carry an Ortlieb waterproof bag and some soap powder at all times. Having somewhere to hang your stuff up is more problematic, hence the need for a rooftop or balcony. The Alberg Els Andes in Andorra had a great rooftop.
4. Self-Catering Kitchen
If a hostel doesn't have a self-catering kitchen, I suggest staying elsewhere. Because as a budget traveller, you can save a shed load of money by cooking for yourself. If you prefer to eat out at least stay in a place with a kettle so you can make a brew. In the early days, I cooked my own meals every night. More recently, the Kex Hostel in Reykjavik had a great self-catering kitchen.
5. Free or discounted Tours
Hostels sometimes offer free walking tours. These can be a great way to get to know the city. Many hostels work with agencies and can offer tours at a cheaper rate, as it was for me when I backpacked the Archaeological Ruins at the Tikal National Park.
6. Criteria for Selecting Somewhere to Stay:
I already wrote about my criteria when selecting somewhere to stay. Checking the Location and facilities available is an essential part of the travelling experience.
7. Dorm Room Privacy:
Hostels have started using bunk beds with curtains. These are a god send.
8. Padlock:
A good hostel will have a locker, but 9 times out of 10, you need to use your own lock, so packing your own sturdy padlock will give you some peace of mind. Of course, locks can be broken.
9. Ear Plugs
I have been dorm room loyal for many years as they were always the cheapest option for me as a budget traveller. Ear Plugs are an absolutely essential item if you prefer your sleep not to be interrupted by snorers, plastic bag rustlers, early risers, party animals and those who like to have dorm room sex
10. Eye mask or Scarf
If you don't have a dorm bed curtain or need to catch up on some sleep during the day, an eye mask or scarf can help you get those essential 40 winks.
I use a Buff or my trusted shemagh.
I use a Buff or my trusted shemagh.