Tips for Reserving and Staying in Hostels

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Hostel Tip: Carry a "battery-less" flashlight that you charge by shaking or cranking a handle. There are very small flashlights available that will fit into a shirt pocket or a small corner of your backpack. They save you inconvenience - and cash.

Hostelling Tips

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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.

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