“Travel is never a matter of money, but of courage.” – Paulo Coelho
Travelling solo has its ups and downs; it can be a bit daunting but there’s ways where you can make it less so. One of my best ways from travelling solo is by staying at hostels (I honestly could not recommend this enough). I remember travelling my first backpacking trip was with my mate Joe from Scotland who convinced me to stay in hostels as I was so against it at the start and I honestly could not thank him enough for make me do it, if it wasn’t for him then I don’t think I would have ever stayed in one!
Alright, so not only are they super affordable, but they also offer a social vibe that can turn a lonely trip into a memorable adventure. Some of my closest mates now are people I met in travels, I’m actually in WhatsApp groups with some of them from people I met in 2019 till now!
1. Affordability and Cost Savings
Hostels are cheap as chips compared to hotels, which means you’ll have more cash to use on anything else. So rather than spending it every night in a private room use that money and spend it on exploring the area, local cuisines, and unforgettable (or forgettable depending on how much you drink haha) nights out.
So in simple, whether you’re cool with dorms or fancy a private room, hostels have got you sorted. Dorms are perfect if you’re looking to meet new people and make friends from all over the world. What I usually do if I do need the privacy is that I would stay in private rooms within the hostel so I can still get the benefit of the socials from the hostel.
Plus, most hostels come equipped with kitchens. This is a game-changer for budget travellers. You can hit up local markets, grab some fresh ingredients, and cook up a storm. Not only does this save you money, but it also gives you a taste of local life. Picture yourself cooking a meal with new friends whilst having a beer (my drink of choice but yours can be different), sharing travel stories, and maybe even learning a new recipe or two. It’s these little moments that make hostel stays so special.
2. Social Opportunities and Community
Honestly this is probably my main reason for staying in a hostel – all those that know me know that I’m all about the vibez, if not all then most hostels I choose to staying in, would come with events and activities that make it a breeze to meet fellow travellers. Whether it’s a pub crawl, a cooking class, or a movie night, there’s always something going on. These events are perfect icebreakers, helping you connect with people from all walks of life. Imagine swapping travel tales over a pint or teaming up for a city tour rather than doing it solo with people you just met the day before.
The common areas in hostels are where the magic happens. These spaces are designed for chilling out and starting up conversations. You might find yourself lounging in a cozy common room, playing board games, or cooking up a feast in the shared kitchen. It’s in these moments that you get to know people, share stories, and maybe even plan your next adventure together.
And let’s not forget the friendships. Staying in hostels means you’re constantly meeting new people which also means you don’t need to stick around with the same people if yo don’t want to, but either way some of these connections can turn into lifelong friendships. You never know, you might meet your new mate or travel buddy for the next days, weeks or months you’re travelling. There’s something about the shared experience of travel that brings people together in a unique way. So, if you’re looking to make friends and create unforgettable memories, hostels are the place to be.
3. Safety and Security
A most common query that people usually worry about is safety but honestly a lot of hotels aren’t any better. Unless you’re staying in the middle of the jungle then most hostels come with lockers where you can stash your valuables, giving you peace of mind while you’re out exploring. Plus, with 24/7 reception, there’s always someone around to help if you need it. Whether it’s checking in late or needing assistance, you can count on hostel staff to be there. If you also decide to checkout but stick around, I’ve never had issues with hostels allowing me to leave my luggage whilst I roam around.
For female travellers, many hostels offer female-only dorms. This added layer of security can make a big difference, providing a comfortable and safe environment. It’s all about making sure everyone feels secure and at ease during their stay.
And let’s not forget the local tips. Although theres loads of western people working in the fancy hotels, you’d always find locals or long-term residents who know the area inside out. They can give you the lowdown on the safest routes, areas to avoid, and the best spots to visit. This insider knowledge is invaluable, helping to navigate new places with confidence. So, whether you’re looking for the safest way to get around or the best local hangouts, hostel staff have got you covered.
4. Unique and Authentic Experiences
Hostels are all about that local flavour. Unlike generic hotels, hostels often have a unique vibe that reflects the local culture and community. From quirky decor to themed rooms, each hostel has its own personality, making your stay feel special and authentic. It’s like getting a taste of the local culture as soon as you walk through the door.
The staff at hostels are usually a goldmine of insider knowledge. They can hook you up with the best local spots and hidden gems that you won’t find in any guidebook. Whether it’s a secret beach, a hole-in-the-wall café, or an off-the-beaten-path hiking trail, hostel staff know all the best places. This insider info can turn a good trip into an unforgettable adventure.
Another benefit is that a lot of these hostels organise tours and activities that let you dive into the local culture. Whether it’s a cooking class, a city tour, a hike or a pub crawl, I find these activities are a nice way to experience the local scene and meet other people. It’s all about the vibez and making the most of the trip and creating positive memories.
5. Flexibility and Convenience
One of the best things about hostels is their usually everywhere, I use Hostelworld to find all my hostels and then Booking as an alternative. No matter where you’re headed, you can pretty much guarantee there’s a hostel waiting for you. From jam packed cities to remote villages, theres a hostel that can be found, making it super easy to find a bed to crash in.
Hostels also offer flexible booking options and cancellation policies (within 24 hours usually), which is a lifesaver especially for me as I genuinely have unpredictable travel plans. So, whether your plans change last minute or you decide to extend your stay, hostels usually have you covered without the worry and to be honest the majority of them would usually just ask for a deposit and you can pay the rest at the front desk. This flexibility means you can travel more freely and make the most out of the opportunities that comes your way.
Last point, check-ins. Many hostels offer late check-in and check-out times (or at least they don’t mind when I head to the front desk a bit later), which is perfect if you’re arriving late or need a bit more time to pack up. No more stressing about missing a check-in window or having to lug your bags around all day. It’s all about making your travel experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Conclusion
In a nutshell, staying at hostels offers solo travellers a ton of benefits, from saving money and making friends to staying safe and having some cool experiences. If you’re planning a solo trip in the next year, do yourself a favour and book a hostel.
Peace & Love
