10 Essential Backpacker Hostel Hacks

I’ve been a backpacker for 33 years now. I have travelled hardcore through 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.

So before you embark on your next backpacking adventure, make sure you check out these Essential Backpacker Hostel Hacks. They will for sure, make your stay a little more comfortable.

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.

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 Hostel 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 shedload 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 have already written 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 godsend.

​8. Padlock:

A good hostel will have a locker, but 9 times out of 10, you need to use your own lock, so make sure you pack a sturdy padlock to give you some peace of mind. Of course, locks can be broken.

9. Earplugs

I have been dorm room loyal for many years, as they were always the cheapest option for me as a budget traveller. Earplugs 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.