Staying in a hostel can be a fun and budget-friendly way to travel, meet new people, and immerse yourself in the local culture. However, it’s essential to follow some basic etiquette to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for you and your fellow travelers. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while staying in a hostel:
Connect with other backpackers in the hostel
Hostels are great places to make new friends and share travel experiences with like-minded people. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with your fellow travelers in common areas, such as the lounge or kitchen, and join group activities organized by the hostel.
Ensure you have the hostel must-haves
When staying in a hostel, it’s essential to bring some key items to make your stay more comfortable. These include a padlock for lockers, a quick-drying towel, earplugs, a sleep mask, and a power adapter for charging your devices.
Always check if there are people sleeping in your room
Be mindful of others’ sleep schedules, especially when entering or leaving your dorm room. If there are people sleeping, try to be as quiet as possible and use a flashlight or your phone’s light instead of turning on the main light.
Label your food if using the communal fridge
Most hostels have a shared kitchen and fridge for guests to store and prepare their meals. If you plan to use the fridge, be sure to label your food with your name and check-out date to avoid confusion and prevent others from accidentally eating your items.
Choose a hostel that suits your preferences
Not all hostels are the same, so it’s essential to choose one that matches your travel style, budget, and priorities. Consider factors like location, atmosphere, amenities, and reviews from other travelers to find the perfect hostel for your needs.
Don’t: Leave your belongings scattered around the room
Keep your belongings organized and stored in designated areas, such as lockers or under your bed. This not only helps maintain a tidy and clutter-free environment but also reduces the risk of theft or misplacing your items.
Don’t: Make excessive noise in the room
Respect your fellow travelers’ need for peace and quiet by keeping noise levels down, especially during quiet hours or when others are trying to sleep. Avoid playing loud music, talking loudly, or making other disruptive noises.
Don’t: Leave dirty dishes after use
Clean up after yourself in the communal kitchen to maintain a clean and pleasant environment for everyone. Wash, dry, and put away your dishes and utensils after using them, and wipe down countertops and appliances as needed.
Don’t: Change the room temperature without consulting others
Before adjusting the thermostat or opening/closing windows in a shared room, check with your roommates to ensure everyone is comfortable with the change. Different people have different temperature preferences, and it’s important to respect those differences.
Don’t: Have sex in a dorm room
Engaging in intimate activities in a shared dorm room is disrespectful and inconsiderate to your fellow travelers. If you’re traveling with a partner and require privacy, consider booking a private room or finding alternative accommodations.
By following these simple do’s and don’ts, you’ll contribute to a positive hostel experience for yourself and others, making your backpacking adventure all the more enjoyable and memorable.
