A First Time Solo Traveler’s Guide To Hostels
As countries open back up and people begin to travel again, hostels are reopening for business. I am a big advocate for hostels. At any age, hostels allow you to meet new people, travel on a budget, and experience the city in a way that a hotel wouldn’t allow you to. Here is how to find the hostel that is perfect for your solo adventures.
Step one: Plan your trip
I never make an itinerary for a vacation unless I am showing someone a place I have already been; however, I always make a list of the must-see items while I am in a particular place. Come up with your top three must-sees and write them down.
For example: In Vienna, I couldn’t leave without visiting Belvedere Palace, Cafe Central, and Schmetterlinghaus, or in Malaga I had to see the Alcazaba, Playa de la Malagueta, and Castle Gibralfaro.
Once you have a list, find a few hostels that are within walking distance of those locations or close to the city center. The things you want to see will probably be close to the city center anyway.
Step two: Determine your wants
If you want to meet new people: Find a hostel with a bar. When I am solo traveling I always book hostels that have a hostel bar. It is a great way to meet other travelers. If it is your first hostel bar experience, you’ll find that most people are in groups but odds are that people are also solo travelers and just met that night or the night before. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself.
If you want to be surrounded by people your age: Many hostels advertise an age limit but if they don’t, avoid long-stay hostels. Many older folx will find refuge in long-stay hostels during the winter months.
If you want to relax: Avoid party hostels! If you are in a beach town, find a hostel within walking distance of the water! There are plenty of hostels where everyone has an unspoken agreement to mind their own business.
If you don’t want to eat on your own: Many hostels offer breakfast. This is usually a cheap amount at the front desk or will be donation-based but you may have to get up fairly early to eat it! Another great option that many hostels offer is family dinners. I have never had a family dinner that was more than 10 euros or left me feeling unfulfilled. It is a great way to meet people too!
If you want a hotel feel at a hostel price: Find a hostel that has private rooms. They are a little bit pricier than standard shared rooms but will cost significantly less than a hotel.
If you want to feel safe and connected: Almost every hostel will offer free locker space in your room or underneath your bed and will also have wifi. Just check and make sure.
Step three: Pick a room
Once you have determined what you want from a hostel and found one that fits those requirements, you have to pick a room. Hostel rooms come in all sizes. I have stayed in a four-person room and I have also stayed in a fourteen-person room. The choice is up to you and what will make you feel safe/fit your budget. You can also stay in a room based on gender. Most hostels have female, male, and co-ed rooms and I have never been to a hostel that isn’t welcoming of all identities.
