Use Headphones
Hostels are a shared space, and you need to respect the people around you. Don't be that person playing videos on full blast while others are trying to sleep. Always use headphones.
Bring a Lock
Every hostel usually offers a locker of some sort, but they do not provide free locks. Some hostels will sell them to you at the front desk, but this is not always an option so I definitely recommend bringing your own.
Even with a lock, I would keep your expensive items on you at all times. Yes, hostels are safe, but you still need to be smart. Items such as your passport, wallet, or digital camera should be on you at all times.
Don’t Spread Out
Do not be the person who chooses the bottom bunk but then hangs your towels on the top bunk. Keep your items within a certain vicinity and don’t spread out. If you want to stay in a hostel, I recommend learning how to be a minimalist.
Clean Your Dishes
If you decide to cook while in a hostel, or even just have a cup of coffee, be sure to clean your pots, dishes, mugs, etc.. It’s not fair to leave your dirty dishes in the sink for the next person to have to clean.
Leave the Lights Off
Again, your are sharing a room with other people. If you decide to stay out until 3am, that’s your choice, but do not come barging back into the room in the middle of the night and turn the lights on just so you can find your pajamas. Use your phone flashlight if you have to, but keep the light off.
Hostels Have More Than You Think! Don’t be afraid to ask!
What the front desk has to offer:
Maps
Just like a hotel, you can always go up to your front desk and ask for a map of the city you are staying in. They will usually even give you tips on places to visit and the best ways to get there!
Towels and Blankets
If you don’t have a towel or would like a heavier blanket, the front desk will sometimes provide you with one for a certain fee, but this is not always an option so be sure to look into this before booking your hostel!
Locks
As mentioned above, most hostels will sell locks behind the reception desk in case you did not bring one. Just ask!
Bar Crawls and Mingling Events
Hostels are a place for travelers to meet other travelers! If you want to hang solo, no problem. But, if you want to meet some other people or have a night already planned out for you, go up to your front desk and ask if they have any events going on while you are there.
Events can vary from group bar crawls to a night dedicated to watching a specific soccer game. Selina Hostel, which is in the image above, turned their common room into a night club every Friday and Saturday. Hundreds of people showed up to our hostel, and even paid a cover fee, just to get in! Every hostel is different, but you won’t know what they offer until you go up and ask!
If you want more information on Selina Hostel, feel free to send me a message!
Breakfast
Just like a hotel, some hostels provide breakfast! Depending on your package, it could be included or it may cost a small fee. If breakfast is a necessity for you, then be sure to look into this before booking!
Luggage Room
Hostels, just like hotels, will have certain check in and check out times. If you arrive early, or check out early, but plan to wonder around the city, be sure to ask the front desk if there is a luggage room. They will usually tag your bags and give you a receipt before sticking them in a locked room. This allows you to continue walking around the city without the hassle of carrying a bag.
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