Hostels provide a cheap alternative to motels or hotels and offer an inviting community atmosphere to those backpackers who may be traveling alone. Hostels may also have tour desks to help you organize your trip, free breakfast, Internet access and information about the city that you are visiting. Some hostels also have organized hostel events, such as parties, day trips, walking tours, movie showings or dinners. These can be especially helpful for those traveling alone who wish to meet new people.
Make a list of what is important to you for where you are staying. Some options may include hot showers, single bedrooms, a bathroom connected to your room, hostel-organized events, a kitchen, a bar downstairs, Internet access, key card access for extra safety or female-only rooms.
Browse hostel listings on websites such as Hostelworld, Hostelmania, HostelBookers, or Hostels.com to see what you might be interested in. Keep in mind how much you would like to spend per night on a hostel, as this will limit your selection. Also, keep in mind whether or not you will need an English speaker at the hostel desk.
Research the city you are visiting and decide which part of the city you would like to be in. Base your decision on how close you would like to be transportation, attractions, bars/nightlife or friends you are visiting.
Narrow your search on the hostel websites to your specific city and neighborhood. Choose a few hostels in your price range that are of interest to you. List their amenities, pros and cons.
Read the reviews on the hostel booking websites or on the hostel's website--these can help give you an idea of the hostel's atmosphere as well as an idea of the type of people that stay there.
Weigh the pros and cons, and choose your hostel. Read booking and cancellation policies, and only book your hostel when you are sure that those will be your final plans. Be prepared to pay a booking fee to hold your spot, which is usually a percentage of the final cost. Book your hostel with a credit card, and be sure to write down your confirmation number and reservation information. Check to see if directions and transportation information to your hostel are available with your confirmation--many hostels list this right on the booking site.
