Living in a hostel is nothing like living in a hotel. It’s a unique experience on its own. Everything about hostels is interesting. Sharing the space with people from different walks of life, speaking different languages, getting to know stories about their life and experiences and also establish bonds with the people you’re most likely not going to see again.

Now, if you’re a first-timer, a newbie to the concept of hostels, certain questions are going to come knocking on your door. Is it safe? Am I going to be comfortable? Is it hygienic? This could go on and on but to help you, here’s a list of 7 things you should know before living in a hostel.

This Is Not A Hotel -

It’s as simple as that. The guest experience that the hotels provide, you’re not getting that in a hostel. Everything here is shared and no luxury treatment is offered. In a hostel, you’re only paying for the bed and nothing else. Although hostels could sell stuff, refreshments, toiletries, etc are not going to be given to you. The only bright side to hostels is that they are far more affordable compared to hotels. It’s a different culture altogether.

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A Great Place To Meet Travelers -

Hostels are multicultural hubs. Hostels are a fantastic place to meet fellow travelers. You are never alone here unless you want to. You are always surrounded by people from all parts of the world. Speaking of culture, unlike the lobbies of the hotels which have barely anyone walking, the ones in the hostels always have a bunch of people.

Hostels also have events or activities going on where you’ll surely get to mix amongst the crowd and get to know your fellow travelers better. This is something you really must look forward to!

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There Is Almost No PRIVACY -

Yes. That is correct. Bedrooms, bathrooms, communal rooms, plates, cups, knives, forks, pots, pans, etc. Everything you read here is shared. There are also certain things in a hostel you need to learn and master. For instance, getting changed is one.

This depends on how comfortable are you to change in front of others or you possess the skill of getting changed under 30 seconds with a towel wrapped around you. This is something you’re going to have to get used to unless you’re changing in the showers.

Are Hostels Safe? -

Safety is completely down to you. Whether it’s taking care of yourself or your belongings, the responsibility falls completely on you. The biggest fear while living in a hostel is theft. Nothing is going to put a dampener on your trip than getting your expensive items stolen. Even if you’re someone who enjoys sharing a room with people, you still cannot trust anyone there.

A proven tip? Padlocks. Always carry padlocks with you. A lot of hostels have lockers but without locks. Here is when you ensure the safety of your things. Apart from padlocks, being careful is also equally important. If you’re leaving your room and going to be out for a while, make sure all your expensive belongings are safely kept away! Taking extra care never harmed anyone.

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How to backpack?

Always remember. Less is more.

You really don’t need much. Having a bag over 60L is only going to make you’re life difficult. The more clothes or items you carry, the more bags you’re going to need. A lot of people make the rookie mistake of carrying extra clothes just in case there’s a need for it. Well, no. Only carry what you need and not what you want. Clothes, footwear, accessories, etc. When you realize that these things aren’t going to be enough, that is when you stop! You can easily live without most of the extra luggage!

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FREE ACCOMMODATION -

NEWSFLASH! You can indeed live in hostels for free! How? Well by exchanging your skills for stay. And just so you know, if you feeling you have nothing to exchange, you’re wrong! It could be anything like working as a receptionist, changing and cleaning the bed sheets and mattresses, maintenance, working social media, video editing or even if you can perform and showcase your skills to the guests. There is always something you can do!

One Big Family -

It is really difficult to not be a part of it! When you live in such places with people around you all the time, you’re going to build a bond with them. An experience like no other. Communal rooms full of people having the time of their lives making sure you never feel alone and when you do, there’s always someone to cheer you up! Even though you’re far from, you’ll still feel at home.

And that’s it. These were the 7 things you must know before living in a hostel. Hope these pointers do help you in your adventures and life in a hostel.

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