The Most Frequently Asked Questions About Hostels Answered

Despite the fact that hostels are the best and most affordable type of travel accommodations, they still get a bad rap. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most frequently asked questions about hostels so that you’ll have a better idea of what to expect from them. Let’s get to it.

How much can I expect to pay?

The cost of staying in a hostel will vary depending on where you’re going. If you’re traveling to a big city in Europe or the US, the cost can range from $40 all the way up to $80 a night. It will also depend on the type of room you’re getting and the amenities that come with it. In Thailand, however, the cost is a lot cheaper, as you can expect to get a decent room for 400 baht or $13.

Is there an age limit?

Most hostels around the world will only let you stay there alone if you’re over 16 (18 in some countries). While some hostels may have a ceiling age limit of around 40 years old, most don’t, so age is typically a non-issue for most travelers. That said, you should still check with the staff beforehand so there won’t be any unpleasant surprises waiting for you when you arrive.

Do I have to share a room with the opposite sex?

There are many different hostels that offer single-sex rooms, so if that’s one of your worries, you can look for one that separates guests by sex. In most hostels, you’ll still have to share the common area with the opposite sex. If you prefer not to share a room with anyone, male or female, get a private room. It may be more of a burden on your wallet, but it’s a small price to pay for maximum comfort and privacy.

Do I have my own bathroom?

You can almost always expect to share bathrooms in hostels, as that’s one of the reasons why they’re so cheap—certain amenities or features are accessible to everyone. But don’t worry, as most decent hostels strive to maintain cleanliness, especially when it comes to bathrooms and toilets. Again, this will depend on the standards of the hostel you’re staying at, as the ones that have dirty bathrooms can be an absolutely horrifying experience. Don’t say we didn’t warn you!

Is breakfast included?

Many hostels offer free breakfast for everyone, even the guests who booked the cheapest rooms available. That makes most hostels a bargain! But don’t expect pancakes and freshly-made omelettes, as you will most likely be served cereal, toast, and instant coffee. For most backpackers and budget tourists, this type of breakfast is more than enough, but if you’re expecting something more, you may want to check with the hostel staff to see what they’re serving.

Most hostels also have a shared fridge for you to store your food, so if you prefer not to have cornflakes and bread for breakfast, you can buy some food ahead of time and put it in the fridge. But make sure you put it in a bag and write your name on it, as people in hostels are never afraid to take someone else’s food.

Are there really bedbugs in hostel beds?

You can expect to find bedbugs in your sheets if you’re staying in a dingy and sketchy hostel. But take solace in knowing that a place that’s known to be a breeding ground for bedbugs won’t last long. The internet allows us to learn a lot about locations and services before we go somewhere so that you can do the same with hostels as well. Go online and read some reviews about the hostel you’re planning to stay at so you’ll have a better picture of what it’s really like. This way, you can prevent yourself from encountering many other problems along the way—bedbugs included.

If you’re looking for a poshtel in Phuket, Thailand, Book a Bed Poshtel is your best option. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help.