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9 Hostel Myths Debunked!

9 Hostel Myths Debunked!

Wondering what it’s like to stay in a hostel? We want to show you what all the hype is about!

We’re sure you’ve heard loads of things, but we want to debunk 9 common hostel myths. For a long time, hostels were intended to be cheap accommodation solutions for students and budget travellers. But nowadays, the industry has evolved to look more like independent boutique hotels, and are reaching new demographics. We don’t want you to miss out just because you heard something from someone who heard it from a friend, or you saw that terrible movie bearing our industry’s name. So let’s get to it, and debunk 9 Hostel Myths!

10 Hostel Myths Debunked

Oasis Backpackers Hostel in Lisbon, Portugal – 9 Hostel Myths Debunked

1. You Share Your Room With Strangers

This is probably one of the biggest hostel myths we have to debunk. Of course upon arrival, the people in your room are strangers, but within a few hours, they quickly become your friends. And dorms aren’t always without amenities. Beds often come with privacy curtains and bed lights for extra privacy. And sometimes, dorms will have at least a sink, if not a fully equipped bathroom attached.

And if you require or prefer a female only dorm, no problem! Hostels always have dorms rooms exclusively for female guests, but space is often limited so if this is a requirement, be sure you book early.

The newest trend for dorm room styles are pod beds. St Christopher’s Village London is the first hostel in the UK to offer the tiny capsule bedrooms, and is an experience in and of itself! If you get the chance to book a pod bed, we highly recommend it.

Dorms in Rising Cock in Lagos, Portugal

Dorms in Rising Cock in Lagos, Portugal

2. Hostels Are for Students

Coming in second as one of the biggest hostel myths is that they’re only for students. While that might have been true in the past, it certainly isn’t the case anymore. Hostels are a place for everyone, from students, to families, and even older travellers. We don’t discriminate when it comes to our guests, we just want everyone to have the best experiences on their adventures. This is really what makes hostels such a great place to stay.

Ostello Bello Lake Como

3. Hostels Are Noisy

Most hostels have bars and of course things can get noisy there, but the rooms are located well away from the noise and won’t disturb your much deserved sleep. For example, Balmer’s Hostel in Interlaken has a really popular club underneath the hostel, but you won’t even notice the noise from the rooms! And if you are easily disturbed by others, you can always get a pair of ear plugs at reception. We’re enjoying debunking these hostel myths one at a time.

10 Hostel Myths Debunked

Balmers Hostel in Interlaken, Switzerland – 9 Hostel Myths Debunked

4. Hostels are Budget Solutions

And what’s wrong with that?! Rather than spend loads of money on a hotel or another empty AirBnB, hostels offer a sociability you can’t find elsewhere and for half the price. Accommodation and travel are always the two most expensive items on any adventure, and they’re both rather unavoidable. Make your money stretch further and book accommodation at a hostel! And if you’re travelling solo, we really can’t think of a better way to meet new people!

Oasis Backpackers Hostel in Granada, Spain - 10 Hostel Myths Debunked

Oasis Backpackers Hostel in Granada, Spain – 9 Hostel Myths Debunked

5. Hostels Are Dirty

This is easily one of the biggest hostel myths we battle with. Hostels are exceptionally clean, and even rival hotels in many respects. In fact, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many hostels were given exceptions to stay open for stranded travellers, front line workers, and business travellers due to their stringent hygiene policies and ability to contact trace. While we can say for certain that all locations within the Europe’s Famous Hostels network while more than exceed your expectations, we cannot say it’s true for those outside our network. In any case, we suggest checking reviews on cleanliness if you’re concerned.

Cats Hostel in Porto, Portugal - 10 Hostel Myths Debunked

Cats Hostel in Porto, Portugal – 9 Hostel Myths Debunked

6. Hostels Are Dangerous

Easily one of the most tiring hostel myths is that they’re dangerous. Most hostels have 24/7 reception and security, and cannot be entered without a key or passcode. And if you’re staying in a dorm, you get your own locker to keep your valuables safe. But if you end up bringing something extra valuable, ask reception about storing it in their safe, which is usually located in their office.

Villa St. Exupery beach Hostel in Nice, France - 10 Hostel Myths Debunked

Villa St. Exupery beach Hostel in Nice, France – 9 Hostel Myths Debunked

7. All You Get is a Bed  

This is one of the biggest myths in all senses because hostels are so much more than just a place to sleep. Most have kitchens, bars, restaurants, offer tours and activities, and so much more! For example, Oasis Backpackers in Seville, Spain has an amazing rooftop terrace with a swimming pool! And Villa Saint Exupery Hostel in Nice has a free gym and sauna. Curious what other hostels offer? Check it here!

9 Hostel Myths Debunked

Rooftop pool at Oasis Backpackers Hostel in Seville, Spain

8. There Are No Private Rooms

This might have been true 20 years ago, but it’s one of those hostel myths that just won’t die. Now, nearly all hostels offer private rooms, apartments, and in some cases, penthouse suites. And the difference between private rooms in hostels and hotel rooms is pretty much found only in the price. And while you could go for an AirBnb, hostels are often cheaper anyway.

Penthouse Suite at Five Elements Hostel in Leipzig, Germany

Penthouse Suite at Five Elements Hostel in Leipzig, Germany

9. They’re All the Same

While hostels are all offering the same product of a room and an unforgettable experience, all hostels are different. Sometimes you can find hostels geared specifically towards partying and socialising, but you can also find ones which offer a more laid back atmosphere, welcoming to everyone.

ArkaBarka Floating Hostel in Belgrade, Serbia

Where to Stay in Europe

You’ll always stay with the best when you book with Europe’s Famous Hostels. From Edinburgh to Tel Aviv, our hostels are among the best in the destinations, and are famous for being sociable and welcoming places for everyone. Click here to see a complete list of destinations in the Europe’s Famous Hostels network.

9 Hostel Myths Debunked!

We hope you’ve enjoyed our guide to 9 Hostel Myths Debunked. Now that you’re in the know about one of Europe’s coolest accommodation types, it’s time to plan your adventure. We’re looking forward to hosting you!

If you’re looking for more information to plan your adventure, or simply get inspired, click here to find tons of helpful tips and tricks. For all the latest news at Famous Hostels, follow us or subscribe on InstagramFacebook, Pinterest, and Youtube.

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