Tips for Reserving and Staying in Hostels

Hostel and Homestay Directory
Hostels & Homestays
Bed & Breakfasts
Small Hotels

Hostel Tip: Remember to pack a pillow. It will come in handy at night as well as on long plane, bus, and train rides. A protective allergy-proof pillow cover will prove invaluable if you have allergies and will help to protect against pests like bed bugs.

Hostelling Tips

Reserve a Hostel

Tips | Login to your Account | FAQ | Customer Support

Hostels are an inexpensive way to travel - offering the cheapest lodging rates available for travellers - including adults, families, students, and backpackers.

Be aware that the quality and variety of accommodations vary widely. Some hostel facilities include breakfast in their rates, as well as linens, free internet access, cable TV, private baths, kitchens, laundry facilities, and other amenities. They will also accept credit cards on arrival for the balance owing on your reservations.

Basic hostels may not serve any meals at all and provide a minimum of creature comforts. They may also offer cash only services.

All online reservations must be secured with a credit card deposit - but the balance may be payable in cash.

You may enjoy staying at dormitory-type hostels with dorm rooms containing multiple beds and shared toilet facilities. Privacy is limited. High-end hostels may have semi-private or private rooms with ensuite baths (more like a bed and breakfast than a hostel).

Many hostels do not provide linens. Be sure to check in advance so that you are prepared. You can buy hostel sheets online. They can be purchased with a drawstring carrying bag that looks like a sleeping bag stuff-sack. Speaking of sleeping bags, you may decide that a sleeping bag is preferable. If you plan a long trip, be sure to pack a sleeping bag with a washable liner (or buy extra liners).

If you are a light sleeper, you might want to purchase some noise-cancelling earbud headphones with a portable music device (like an iPod or mini MP3-player). Nervous about taking along an expensive item that could be lost? Pack some cheap foam earplugs. They are invaluable for blocking out sounds like street noises and snoring.

Packing for hostel travel requires some special planning. You won’t have the same amenities at your destination that a hotel or inn would provide. Some useful items:

Small phrase book (if you’re going to a foreign country) - or a phrase book with pictures like The Wordless Travel Book
Plastic water bottle (like those used by joggers and bikers)
Washcloth and towel
Eating utensils - the kind you use when camping out
Travel alarm clock
Supplies for handwashing clothes and linen if you are going to be gone for long
Chapstick
Medications, birth control pills, etc.

Wherever you plan to stay, be very sure to read the online information carefully.

Budget Hostel or Luxury Villa? Take Care When Booking!
Booking a hotel is a great way to complement your holiday, whether you're traveling for business or leisure, long haul, or across the channel. Hotels can make or break a holiday. How can you be sure that you're booking the right accommodations?

Several Valuable Tips for Staying Healthy while Traveling
It is very difficult to avoid germs while traveling. Airplanes, trains, and buses are very small spaces that serve as perfect environments for disease to spread. Luckily, there are many steps that can be taken to stay healthy while on the go.

How to Plan Last-Minute Holidays that Won't Break the Bank
Last-minute holidays don't need to be badly planned holidays. You can save money on flights and accommodation simply by doing some research, selecting the best destination, and requesting the help of an experienced agency. Here are a few tips.

A List of Movies that can Stimulate Great Travel Ideas
It is amazing how many would-be travelers know how to find cheap airplane tickets or cheap vacation packages, yet are at a loss of where to visit. This article describes several movies that will inspire thoughts of intriguing destinations.

Winter Family Break Ideas that Won't Break Your Budget
Many winter activities are typically easier on your budget, as prices are generally higher during the summer months. Whether your family enjoys a day of hiking or fishing in a nearby pond, you'll cherish a few memories of the adventure.