Traveling abroad is one of the most exhilarating experiences of your life. One of the aspects that helps ensure a smooth travel journey is choosing the right accommodation. With so many accommodations, hostels have become increasingly popular among young adventurers seeking affordable lodging options. Unlike traditional hotels, they offer budget-friendly prices and a unique environment that fosters social interaction and cultural exchange. This combination makes them ideal for backpackers and solo travelers eager to meet new people and share stories from their journeys. While hostels provide a fantastic opportunity for camaraderie, it’s essential to approach your stay with caution and awareness.
Like with any accommodations, there are certain precautions you should take to ensure your safety and well-being while staying at a hostel. With shared spaces and communal living arrangements, staying in a hostel can present unique challenges that travelers may not encounter in more private accommodations. Therefore, this post will explore five crucial precautions to remember when visiting a hostel abroad. Following these tips will allow you to enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere while safeguarding your belongings and personal safety. Being prepared can help you make the most of your experience and create unforgettable memories during your travels, whether you’re a seasoned hostel-goer or a first-time visitor. Before diving into these essential tips, let me share my experience at a hostel in France.
Staying in a Hostel as an Expat in France
I visited my first Hostel when I lived in France. I was looking for accommodation for a night because I had a train to catch up to Germany at 6:30 AM. However, the train from Rennes, where I was staying, would not arrive in Paris until 7 AM, guaranteeing that I would miss my TGV train to Dortmund from Paris’ Gare du Nord. Therefore, I needed to go to Paris the night before to make my train to Germany the following day. I searched for hotels nearby, but they were expensive, and cheap ones were overbooked. A French acquaintance asked me, “Why aren’t you looking at a hostel?”
It was my first time hearing of hostels. My European friends were surprised that I did not consider staying at a hostel since it is common for expats to stay in hostels instead of hotels, which I usually prefer. I hesitated for days before finally deciding to give it a try. I booked my first Hostel on Booking.com. The Hostel was 2 minutes away from Gare du Nord in Paris, which was very convenient. However, there were no more when I looked for an all-girls room. It was all overbooked. I asked some friends if they had been in a mixed room before booking, and everyone said yes. One told me that it was in a mixed room, she met her now long-time best friend. She reassured me that the mixed rooms in hostels would have the same number of females as males. Hence, I felt comfortable completing the booking and embracing the adventure of a new experience.
When I arrived at the Hostel, I went to a locker with the keys and room number. There was no concierge, which is convenient for someone whose arrival time may be later than anticipated, but I am used to putting a face to a location in case of emergencies. So, not having a concierge was not too hopeful when I arrived. Then I went to my room and found four other males. It was a room for six people. Adding me, that makes five. I prayed and hoped the last person would be female so that I could have some comfort, but no. To my dismay, the last person was male.
Although I get along with men, and most of my close relationships are with guys, this was not ideal. Hence, I hated not having a concierge to go to and discuss if there was another option for me to be in an evenly mixed room or if a female room was available for me. I did not know what to do or who to contact, so I prayed and hoped for the best. Despite my unease, the guys were very friendly. They were all international students like me, spread out around France. Some had flights to catch in the early mornings so that they would be in the room for a few hours. I discovered that by the time I woke up, only two guys would be in the room, easing my displeasure. This experience taught me the importance of communication in hostels, as it can empower you to address any concerns and ensure a more comfortable stay.
However, I had to remain vigilant. I do not think that I closed my eyes that night. I closed my eyes, but I did not sleep. I had my purse close to my head and my carry-on suitcase on the bed near me. The guys were okay. But as a solo female traveler, I couldn’t help but think of safety. However, because the night came and went without incident, I decided to stay in another hostel on my way back from Germany, but it was a nightmare this time. Like the first Hostel, I could only find a mixed room and ended up with the only female. When I realized this, I remembered how most of my fear in the first room was decipated, so I decided not to freak out.
However, some people I was paired with made my night a nightmare. One guy left the bathroom dirty. The already-small bathroom was smelly for hours. Everyone was left to their own devices. As the only female, I felt uncomfortable sharing simple chats with this group of guys. Again, there was no concierge, and I could not sleep the whole night. I was already tired from my trip to Germany, so not being able to sleep while waiting for another trip in the morning was tough. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability in hostel stays, as it can help you navigate unexpected situations and ensure a more enjoyable trip.
The Popularity of Hostels Among Travelers
Hostelworld states hostels are in 180 countries, with 13.7 million reviews. 80% of travelers who stay in hostels are less than 35 years old. 60% of the travelers who booked hostels were solo travelers, and one in five travelers who stayed in hostels enjoyed free social experiences. Hostels are perfect for “green travelers,” as they hope their desire to travel the world and see various places leave less negative impact on the environment. Above all reasons, the reason why people prefer Hostels is because it allow them to meet new people who are traveling and experiencing similar adventures. This sense of camaraderie is, in essence, why Hostel was created.
German teacher Richard Schirrmann converted his former classroom in 1909 to accommodate travelers on a low budget. Three years later, he bought a castle near Dortmund to expand his genius idea, establishing the first official youth hostel. By the 1920s, Germany had 2,000 low-budget hostels around its rural area to give visitors a place to stay without breaking the bank and a community to belong to during their short stays. In 1930, young British travelers returned the idea to the UK. They established the Youth Hostels Association, launching the popularity of this accommodation that many young travelers still enjoy today. Although the pandemic posed many challenges to the industry as it did to many others, the demand to stay in hostels among travelers is at its peak. Hence, we must discuss precautions when booking and staying at hostels abroad. Here are five measures travelers need to consider when staying at a hostel.
5 Cautions To Take When Staying at a Hostel
- Do All The Safety Research
One of the crucial steps to take when planning anything is research. Proper research on every aspect of your travel journey guarantees a successful travel adventure. One of the most vital steps when choosing your accommodation is selecting a safe and reliable hostel. Thus, proper research is required on which Hostel to stay in. Doing thorough research before booking will ensure your safety. Hence, take advantage of online platforms that specialize in hostel reviews, such as Hostelworld and Booking.com. These platforms feature reviews, ratings, and photos from real customers, providing first-hand insight into the Hostel’s environment and amenities.
Beyond reviews, check for any reported safety incidents surrounding the Hostel. Do your research on the neighborhoods where the Hostel is located. Understanding the neighborhood’s safety can influence your decision-making. Find out whether there have been incidents of burglary, theft, aggressive pickpocketing, and any other crimes tourists experience the most while abroad. Also, consider how well-lit and populated the streets around the Hostel are at night. It may also be beneficial to research local customs and safety practices to better prepare yourself for the culture you’ll be entering and to allow you to know which measures to take in case of emergency.
Aside from researching the environment around the Hostel, it is essential to study its security measures. Does it have a 24-hour staff presence, secure lockers for valuables, or surveillance cameras? Confirming these details can give you peace of mind while you enjoy your travels. So, if you end up in a situation like I did, you will have someone to talk to. You can reach out to the Hostel through the Booking.com app or call them from their contact form online to ask them questions and tell them what you would prefer if you are in a mixed room with an equal number of females as males. Hostels were invented to be welcoming to everyone, so if you have any questions, the Hostel’s customer service line will love to ensure you have an enjoyable stay.
It wasn’t until my bad experiences that I realized I could have contacted the Hostel and spoken to them about all my worries. Hence, a well-researched hostel protects you and enhances your overall experience by providing a comfortable and welcoming environment. You can also reach out to fellow travelers through forums like Reddit or travel blogs for their opinions about hostels in the destination you are thinking of. These forums also give you first-hand recommendations that can lead you to hidden gems or help you avoid potential pitfalls. By prioritizing safety through diligent research, you can focus on making unforgettable memories during your adventures abroad.
- Create Your Space Within the Shared Space
The second precaution to take when staying at a hostel is creating your space within a shared space. Staying in a hostel can be exciting, allowing you to meet new people and experience different cultures. However, it also requires a balance between enjoying communal living and ensuring your comfort. Creating your own comfortable space within the shared environment is essential for prioritizing peace and tranquility while respecting others, especially if you stay at a hostel for a few days or weeks. You can start by personalizing your area with small, meaningful items that remind you of home. You can put a favorite photo, a book, or a cozy blanket. These personal touches can transform a generic space into a tranquil nook that feels uniquely yours. Suppose you are staying at a hostel for a long duration. In that case, you can use organizational tools like packing cubes to help maintain a tidy environment, making accessing your belongings easier without interfering with your roommates.
Another way to create a peaceful space within the shared space is noise management. Although it may be fun to socialize with your roommates, we need time to think and relax. Sometimes, being social is exhausting. Some people want time away from the noise to hear themselves think or relax. Hence, noise management is crucial in shared spaces. Using headphones or earplugs can shield you from the sounds of social interactions and late-night activities, allowing you to establish a peaceful atmosphere for rest or reflection. In common areas, it’s considerate to keep conversations at a moderate volume, respecting the need for others to find their peace. Lastly, communication plays a pivotal role in Hostel living. If you require quiet hours or specific accommodations, kindly express your needs to your roommates. Communicating your needs is vital to ensure you feel comfortable with your housemates. By fostering an understanding and respectful atmosphere, you can create a balanced environment where everyone prioritizes each other’s comfort—ultimately, finding that personal space in a hostel allows you to enjoy your journey while cultivating a sense of peace amidst the vibrancy of communal living.
- Bring Your Toiletries & Personal Necessities
Another precaution to take when staying in a hostel abroad is bringing your toiletries, especially reusable toiletries. Maintaining good hygiene is crucial for a comfortable and healthy experience when staying in a hostel. With a shared space and living with people with various hygiene habits, there is a higher risk of exposure to germs and bacteria. Also, unlike staying in a hotel with friends, where you may be comfortable sharing hygiene products with them, You may not have the same comfort with people you meet at a hostel. Most hostels do not provide hygiene products, and even if you find a hosel that does, understand that it will not be enough for your comfort and the comfort of your roommates. Therefore, one of the most effective ways to ensure your hygiene standards are met is by bringing your toiletries.
Some of the necessities to bring are soap, shampoo, and conditioners. You should also bring cleaning supplies like Lysol wipes to ensure your station is clean. One thing I usually have with me when I travel is baby wipes. They are great for wiping your hands, intimate parts, and armpits after using the bathroom. I use them at the airports after landing in a new country on a redeye flight. For ladies, you should invest in bringing face wipes or makeup removal wipes instead of buying liquid versions. Wipes are more easy to pack and will save you headaches with TSA. Another essential hygiene necessity to bring is towels. Bring your towels because most hostels do not provide them in a shared space. Travelers staying in hostels for longer should also bring reusable laundry bags to put their laundry in.
By investing in reusable toiletries, such as your shampoo, body wash, and toothpaste, you can control the quality of the products you use. Having your toiletries ensures you use effective and safe items for your skin and body. Bringing your toiletries provides comfort and familiarity, which can be especially valuable in a potentially chaotic hostel environment. You can also save money by refilling reusable containers, avoiding the need to purchase single-use products. Hence, when planning your stay at a hostel, do not forget to bring your toiletries and hygiene necessities to safeguard your hygiene and enhance your overall travel experience.
- Secure Your Valuables
Ensuring the safety of your valuables is a traveler’s biggest concern. When traveling, especially in hostels, where you share a room, living room, bathroom, and everything together, keeping your valuables secure is essential to ensure a stress-free experience. The nature of hostels makes personal items more susceptible to theft or loss. To ensure the security of your valuables, hostels provide lockers. You can use the lock and keys some provide for your locker, but I am the type of traveler who feels more secure with bringing my padlock or a combination lock. A combination lock like the Master Lock Company is an excellent lock on the lockers. It is small enough to pack in your backpack. It has easy-to-read letters and numbers, allowing you to create a unique passcode that nobody can guess. Bringing your lock to put your valuables in the locker will give you peace of mind and can deter opportunistic theft.
Items to put in your locker can be a passport, cash, wallet, jewelry, and other irreplaceable items. As someone who experienced a break-in at an Airbnb in Marseilles, I love that hostels offer lockers. If I had a locker, I might have put my favorite purse, laptop, and passport in the locker, and the burglar would have only taken unnecessary items when they broke into the Airbnb. Although the locker is helpful, I am still a traveler who likes to have my valued possessions in my possession. Hence, ensuring my suitcases, purses, or backpacks are always secure is vital. To do this, consider using travel security bags like a money belt or an anti-theft backpack like the Travelon Anti-Theft Backpack. These items allow you to keep your essentials close to you, making it harder for anyone to snatch them away unnoticed. A money belt can discreetly hold cash and important documents, while an anti-theft backpack often features lockable zippers and cut-resistant straps.
When locking away items, avoid revealing the contents of your locker, backpack, and money belt in front of others. Try to maintain a low profile regarding your valuables. Do not flaunt expensive electronics or jewelry. Opt for more modest items that blend in with the crowd. You never know who you are staying with. Finally, establish a system for keeping track of your valuables. Designate specific places for items like your phone, passport, and wallet, and make it a habit to check on them regularly. Be proactive and vigilant to ensure your valuables remain safe while you enjoy your adventure.
- Have Travel Insurance
Lastly, buy some travel insurance if you know you will stay at a hostel abroad. Travel insurance is crucial to any trip with friends, family, or at a hotel. However, staying in hostels where circumstances can be unpredictable is vital. Hostels often provide a unique social experience for travelers, but they also come with risks. When sharing accommodations with strangers, there is an increased chance of theft or damage to personal belongings. Hence, having travel insurance becomes essential. Firstly, travel insurance offers financial protection against various unforeseen events during a trip. For instance, if a valuable item such as a laptop or smartphone is stolen from a communal area, having insurance can help cover the replacement cost. While hostels often prioritize safety, the reality is that not everyone on the premises can be trusted, making personal belongings vulnerable.
When a burglar broke into my Airbnb in Marseilles, Airbnb only refunded us the money we paid and paid for us to stay at a hotel. However, I did not receive payment for my stolen laptop, purse, or passport. The host has to file a claim through their Host Protection Insurance for a potential refund, which is not always guaranteed. I never heard from the host again after the day the burglary happened. I was in Marseilles for a short stay and needed to return to the United States the following week, so in those circumstances, there was no way to continue recouping all that I had lost. Hostels, just like other accommodation options, are not responsible for your belongings unless you can prove negligence on their part. Hence, you need travel insurance to protect yourself and your belongings while staying at a hostel.
Travel insurance can also cover medical emergencies or interruptions to your trip and stay. With travel insurance in place, individuals can focus on their recovery or necessary travel arrangements instead of worrying about the potential loss of money. Investing in travel insurance is not just about protecting valuables. It is also about providing peace of mind. Whether exploring a bustling city or lounging in a hostel, having travel insurance ensures that unforeseen circumstances won’t tarnish the journey.
Conclusion
In conclusion, staying in a hostel can be a rewarding experience with opportunities for connection and adventure. You get to meet travelers from around the world and make long-lasting friendships. Being a solo traveler at a hostel will give you some travel buddies with whom you can share your experiences. However, to ensure a safe stay, travelers staying at hostels must have a mindful approach to ensure their safety and comfort. You can confidently navigate the hostel environment by taking necessary precautions—such as securing your belongings, being aware of your surroundings, and choosing your accommodations wisely.
My experiences, both positive and challenging, have taught me the importance of being prepared and adaptable. However, being cautious does not mean you cannot enjoy yourself at a hostel abroad. Whether traveling solo or with friends, hostels offer a unique way to meet fellow adventurers and immerse yourself in new cultures. Embrace the journey and the lessons that come with it, and you’ll create unforgettable memories no matter where your travels take you.
As always, thank you for reading. Like, subscribe, and contact us via our contact form if you have any questions or want to say hello!
Until next time, Happy Hosteling!
Xoxo,
Cy