Tips and Tricks

Introduction

What is backpacking / hostelling? It's a way of traveling the world and really experiencing a country, without spending loads of cash.  Basically it involves carrying everything you have on a single backpack and staying in hostels while you travel. 

What are hostels you may ask?  They are places to stay where you basically lodge in a room with 2-10 other backpackers usually costing US$10-30 a night.  Why is this better than staying in a hotel?   Because hostels are by their nature very social places where backpackers from around the world will room together.  Simply, it is very easy to meet people who are looking to explore the same place you are.  It is not unusual to check into a hostel, meet the people in your same room, and then go discover the location together or (more often then not) hit a local pub.

Hotels, in contrast, are very isolating places where meeting other people can often be a challenge.  They are also considerably more expensive.  Hotels also will draw an older crowd or business folk who are not there to explore the city/locale in the manner you would. 

So what does a typical hostel look like? There are so many types that it is hard to classify since their variety is immense.  Some of the ones I have stayed at include a converted city townhouse, a log cabin, high-rise building, old European villa, former beach resort, and an 19th century Victorian house, to name a few.  They range from two-room semi-"bed and breakfast” type houses in the country, to large hundred-room YHA (Youth Hostel Association) buildings in major cities. 

Besides size and shape, hostels also vary by the amenities and activities they have.  Some hostels offer little more than a room to sleep in for the night.  With others I have stayed in (usually the better ones!) have included a kitchen, locked stowage for valuables, an on-site bar room, swimming pool, or even a game room.  Some places offer services like free transportation to and from the airport/train station, tours, free (or very low cost) bicycle rentals, nightly barbecues, free dinners, or even happy hour parties.  If you are traveling with a partner/friend, or just want a break from people, some hostels offer single or double private rooms (but at higher price of course).

If you are thinking about backpacking or hostelling, I have prepared a guide with some tips and tricks I have learned.  So click below to learn much more:

Next - Preparing for the Trip