If you are planning a trip to Europe, staying in hostels can be a great way to save money and meet new people. Hostels are affordable accommodations that provide travelers with basic amenities such as a bed, bathroom facilities, and a communal kitchen. They are popular among backpackers, students, and budget-conscious travelers who want to stretch their travel budget as much as possible. In this blog post, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about staying in hostels on your Europe tour.

  1. What are hostels?

Hostels are budget-friendly accommodations that provide travelers with a bed, bathroom facilities, and a communal kitchen. They are popular among backpackers, students, and budget-conscious travelers who want to save money on accommodation costs. Hostels can be found in most major cities in Europe and offer travelers a chance to meet new people from all over the world.

  1. Benefits of staying in hostels

Staying in hostels has several benefits, including:

  • Cost: Hostels are significantly cheaper than hotels, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
  • Socialization: Hostels are a great way to meet other travelers from all over the world. Many hostels organize social events and activities to encourage travelers to socialize and make new friends.
  • Convenience: Hostels are often located in central locations, making it easy for travelers to explore the city and visit popular tourist attractions.
  • Flexibility: Hostels offer flexible check-in and check-out times, making it easy for travelers to plan their itinerary without worrying about strict hotel check-in times.
  1. Types of hostels

There are several types of hostels, including:

  • Party hostels: These hostels are known for their lively atmosphere and social events. They are popular among young travelers who want to meet new people and have a good time.
  • Boutique hostels: These hostels offer more upscale amenities and design features, such as private rooms, stylish decor, and gourmet breakfasts. They are popular among travelers who want a more luxurious hostel experience.
  • Eco-hostels: These hostels prioritize sustainable and eco-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources and recycling waste. They are popular among environmentally conscious travelers.
  1. What to expect when staying in a hostel

When staying in a hostel, it’s important to keep in mind that you will be sharing a space with other travelers. Here are some things to expect when staying in a hostel:

  • Dormitory-style sleeping arrangements: Hostels typically offer dormitory-style sleeping arrangements, where travelers share a room with several other travelers. Depending on the hostel, dorms can range in size from 4 beds to 20 or more beds.
  • Shared bathrooms: Hostels usually have shared bathroom facilities, which can be located on the same floor or in a separate area of the hostel.
  • Communal kitchen: Most hostels have a communal kitchen where travelers can cook their own meals and store their food.
  • Lockers: Hostels usually provide lockers for travelers to store their belongings. It’s important to bring your own lock to secure your belongings.
  • Noise: Hostels can be noisy, especially if you are staying in a dormitory-style room. It’s a good idea to bring earplugs to help you sleep.
  1. Tips for staying in hostels

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your hostel experience:

  • Research your hostel: Before booking a hostel, research it online to make sure it meets your needs and preferences. Look for reviews from other travelers to get a sense of the hostel’s atmosphere and cleanliness.
  • Pack light: Hostels usually have limited storage space, so it’s a good idea to pack light and bring only what you need.
  • Be respectful: Remember that you will be sharing a space with other travelers. Be respectful and considerate of others by keeping noise levels down, cleaning up after yourself, and respecting other travelers’ personal space.
  • Bring your own amenities: Hostels usually provide basic amenities such as towels and bed linens, but it’s a good idea to bring your own to ensure you have everything you need.
  • Make friends: Hostels are a great place to meet new people from all over the world. Take advantage of social events and activities to make new friends and learn about other cultures.
  • Safety concerns
  • While staying in hostels can be a fun and affordable way to travel, it’s important to be aware of safety concerns. Here are some tips to ensure your safety while staying in a hostel:
  • Lock up your belongings: Most hostels provide lockers for travelers to store their belongings. It’s important to use these lockers and bring your own lock to ensure your belongings are secure.
  • Keep an eye on your valuables: Don’t leave your valuables unattended in common areas, and be mindful of who has access to your belongings.
  • Use caution when meeting new people: While hostels are a great place to meet new people, it’s important to use caution when meeting strangers. Don’t share personal information or travel plans with people you don’t know, and be wary of anyone who seems suspicious or overly friendly.
  • Use common sense: Use common sense and trust your instincts. If something feels off or unsafe, remove yourself from the situation.
  • In conclusion, staying in hostels on your Europe tour can be a great way to save money, meet new people, and explore new cultures. With a little research and preparation, you can have a fun and safe hostel experience. Remember to be respectful of others, pack light, and use caution when meeting new people. Happy travels!