Choose a hostel over a hotel

The stereotype of basic bunkhouses filled with drunken students has been replaced by a new breed of budget accommodation — the boutique or ‘flashpacking’ hostel. Catering to the increasing number of travelers looking for low prices but a higher standard of facilities, these hostels are a great alternative to hotels, even for those who wouldn’t necessarily consider themselves ‘backpackers’.

The new, chic properties offer such style and convenience that, aside from the prices and the dorms, they wouldn’t look out of place in a hotel (see London hostels like Palmers Lodge, housed in a restored mansion, or arty and unique Lisbon Lounge in the Portuguese capital).

Hostels can also have some great additional benefits, such as kitchens — try self-catering a few meals to avoid the expense of eating out every night.

Escape hidden costs

Traveling is full of hidden ‘extras,’ from airline taxes to insurance, that all add up to damage your budget — and this can also be the case when booking accommodation in advance. Head to HostelBookers to search and book your accommodation online — it’s the only independent booking website that doesn’t charge a booking fee.

In addition, watch out for currency hedging — some websites increase the conversion rate from a hostel’s local currency to earn themselves additional commission on every booking they receive.

Before you travel, it’s also a good idea to read reviews and ratings of the accommodation from other guests, or check out one of the increasing numbers of hostel videos available, to get a clear picture of what’s on offer. That way, there’ll be no nasty surprises when you arrive at your destination, and no need to dip into the emergency funds for another hostel!

Make time for research

Booking a bed at the really cheap hostels might not actually be the best idea. Instead, look carefully at the facilities on offer in each case — somewhere that includes internet and breakfast (and lunch if you help yourself to an extra roll) in the price of a room could actually work out cheapest overall.

Location is another important factor — hostels on the outskirts of a city are typically less expensive than those in the center, but using pricey public transport to and from the sights every day can make costs add up in the long run.

If you’re only staying in a destination for a few days, a hostel within walking distance of the sights could be better value, but it could also make sense to stay further out if the transport is both convenient and cheap — look out for city passes that offer entrance to top attractions and unlimited local travel.

Either way, a little research can make all the difference when it comes to real ‘value for money’!

How to stick to your accommodation budget by Ali Woolliams was originally published on Indie Travel Podcast (find in iTunes). They also have travel books and guides to Asia, Europe, Oceania, South America, and more.

The conventional image of hostels as backpacker haunts with only the most basic facilities has been transformed thanks to a new trend in high-quality budget accommodation.

With modern amenities and a dash of individuality and flair to recommend them, contemporary hostels have got all the atmosphere and opportunities for socializing which have made them so popular – but with a standard that belies the price.

Castle Rock Hostel, Edinburgh

With a stunning view of the castle, a bright interior and artwork on every wall, Castle Rock is a funky mix of the old and new. On the doorstep of the sights and sounds of the Royal Mile, the hostel has a decidedly cool vibe throughout its grand, high-ceilinged social areas.

Greg Tom Hostel, Krakow

With spacious, comfortable dorm rooms (beds, no bunks) and top-quality modern facilities, Greg Tom Hostel is just a few minutes from Krakow’s Main Square. There’s a huge daily buffet breakfast (helpfully served till 11am for the party fans) and a variety of entertaining cultural evenings, from vodka ‘tasting’ sessions to specialty Polish dinners.

Miss Sophie’s, Prague

Miss Sophie’s is a surprisingly affordable boutique hostel with an excellent location away from the tourist traps in the heart of Prague’s New Town. Housed in an attractive historical building, inside, it’s all modern minimalist decor and super-stylish rooms.

LOFTSTEL | Greene Avenue, New York

“The conventional image of hostels as backpacker haunts with only the most basic facilities has been transformed.”A lively hostel in one of the world’s ultimate fast-paced cities, affordable beds at LOFTSTEL have all the mod-cons and technology you’d find in a hotel. With three kitchens, several separate living spaces and complimentary internet and phone access, it’s designed with comfort and budget in mind.

Buenos Aires Hostel Clan and YMCA, Buenos Aires

Hostel Clan offers travelers a cultural experience thanks to lively nights of barbecued Argentinean steak and free Spanish lessons. In downtown Buenos Aires, it’s a great base for exploring the city on foot – or on wheels with the hostel’s free bike hire.

The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel, Amsterdam

With The Flying Pig Uptown’s bar serving some of cheapest drinks in town, it’s a lively base for a break in this vibrant city. This friendly hostel comes with all facilities included in the price and a terrace overlooking the Leidseplein. Combine with Amsterdam cheap flights.

St Christopher’s Inns, Paris

A brand-new, purpose-built hostel on the canal in the revitalized 19th district, St Christopher’s has a separate ‘Oasis’ floor for female travelers. There’s a restaurant and nightclub onsite and regular live music at the bar gives this hostel more than just a touch of the famous Parisian cool.

Silver Gate Hostel, Split

Located in the center of the ancient town, Silver Gate offers travelers a cheap bed with a serious view — all the air-conditioned rooms look out over the 4th century Diocletian’s Palace. The beach and the shops and cafes of Split are also right nearby.

The Northern Greenhouse, Cairns, Australia

The Northern Greenhouse is a quality resort-style hostel with a games room, swimming pool, BBQ and entertainment deck to keep visitors amused. The modern complex has shared and private rooms (all with air-con) suitable for every budget traveler.

Smile Hostel, Lisbon

Situated among the winding alleys of Alfama and Bairro Alto’s nightclubs, Smile Hostel is close to both culture and nightlife in Lisbon. With a friendly atmosphere and newly renovated rooms, guests are free to hit the city’s bars, or, alternatively, stay in and enjoy the chilled-out surroundings and plasma TV.

Editor’s note: You can book any of these hostels or thousands of others through the booking form on the sidebar.

Ten Top Hostels by Ali Woolliams was originally published on Indie Travel Podcast (find in iTunes). They also have travel books and guides to Asia, Europe, Oceania, South America, and more.