Hostel Tips and Tricks for Backpackers

Even if you are extremely frugal with the budget, a backpacking adventure can still cost you a small fortune. Go on an adventure during your gap year at university or straight from college, and you want to have fun but don’t want to run up massive debts, which can happen if you don’t keep a close eye on the purse strings. 

Whilst it’s a pain having to watch cash at every single point, it’s the best way to stay financially afloat during a backpacking trip, so here are our top money saving tips for hostel stays.

Look for budget accommodation

The prices of digs will vary when you are travelling from one destination to the next, look for specialist backpacker hostels if you want to save a little cash. Rooms are cheaper in hostels, whether you travel solo or journey with a group. Check out the prices of hostels before you travel, lower the cost by staying in a dorm, and save money this way.

Take advantage of free facilities    

When choosing hostel accommodation look for any freebies that come with it as standard. Something as simple as free WiFi will save a small fortune on internet costs, see if the place you are staying at offers this type of facility and make sure you do all your online stuff before you check out of the hostel to make full use of the freebie.  Look for hostels that include tea and coffee in the asking price, it’s a small saving but it all helps.

Use the free pick up service

Some hostels provide a free pick up service from local bus or train stations. Check the finer details to see if the hostel you are staying at offers this type of service, it’ll save a small fortune on transfer costs and ensure you get to your accommodation quicker.

Prepare your own meals

Save money by cooking your own meals in the hostel. Eating out is expensive, buy the basics and cook your own meals if the hostel provides communal kitchen facilities. If there are a few of you travelling together you can split the cost of buying ingredients down the middle and share the cooking tasks.

Ask about special rates

Depending on how long you intend to stay at the hostel you could be entitled to special rates. Ask the owner if they can reduce the cost for stays over a set period of time, some hostels do this and it’s a great way to save cash if you want to explore one area in greater detail.

The good news is you can save money on a backpacking holiday simply by staying in hostels, they’re a great base to start your new adventure, and more affordable than you think.