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In this episode of the Indie Travel Podcast, Craig and Linda Martin share ten things to look for when choosing a hostel from a hostel-booking site.

1. Price. Order the results by price to find the cheapest one in the list easily.

2. Rating. Other people who have stayed in the hostel will have filled in a survey to give an overall rating, given in percentages. Choose a high-rated hostel with a fair price.

3. Atmosphere. The ratings are often broken down into categories such as location, cleanliness and fun. The “fun” rating can give you an idea of atmosphere – a high rating usually means it’ll be a bit rowdier, where a low fun rating tends to indicate a quieter hostel. Staff can really make the atmosphere, so check comments on the site or do a google search for the hostel to see other reviews.

4. Location is REALLY important. Is it near the station or airport or easy to get to? Is there a collection service?

5. Is it an independent hostel or a member of an organisation like HI or YHA? We find independent hostels tend to be better. Also, you might need to be a member of the organisation, or pay an extra charge, if you want to stay at an affiliated hostel.

6. How big are the dorms? Usually, the smaller the better. Shy away from hostels with 100-bed dorms – you won’t get any sleep if they are full. If they have different-sized dorms, how much extra is a smaller one? Would a private room be worthwhile?

7. Are the dorms segregated or mixed gender? A female-only dorm might be a good option for a solo female traveller, but hostels that keep men and women separate aren’t so great for couples. Make sure they have the choice you want.

8. What extras are included in the hostel price? Breakfast, wifi, sheets, towel, dinner, station pick-up, a beer on arrival – these are all things we’ve got from some hostels but not others.
9. What facilities does the hostel have? A kitchen is a must on our mental list, but it might also have a book exchange, a bar, or a swimming pool.

10. What isn’t included in the cost? Some hostels charge you for sheets but won’t let you use a sleeping bag, or provide breakfast for an extra cost. Sometimes showers are extra as well.

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You know which of these factors are most important to you, so weigh them up against each other to find the best hostel for you. We often book using Hostelbookers.

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This article was written by Craig and Linda

Craig and Linda Martin have been living on the road since February 2006. Both born and raised in Auckland, New Zealand they are ... somewhere in the world! Craig and Linda host the Indie Travel Podcast - you can get in touch with them here.