Looking for an affordable way to visit some of the greatest cities and attractions throughout the world? Then consider booking your next stay at a hostel. Today, hostels are easily found throughout the world and their popularity in the United States has grown. You can find hostels in all major cities, like New York City, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington D.C., Los Angeles and Boston, and also in National Parks, like Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon and Yosemite.
Prices range from overnight stays as low as $24 per night for a dorm in New York City to $18 per night for a dorm in Chicago.
Like hotels, not all hostels are alike, so we’ve compiled a list of things for you to know and check out before booking a room.
Shared or Private Rooms
Are you okay sharing a room with strangers? Many hostels have bunk beds or other shared rooms where multiples like four, eight or more people sleep dormitory-style. The benefit to dorm rooms is an insanely low price. But if privacy is what you’re after, then check to see what private rooms are offered. Many hostels let you reserve a room as a single, double or even a group. These rooms are at least double the price of a dorm, but are also still below what a hotel would charge.
Meals
Some hostels offer free breakfast, some have on-site cafes and some have community kitchens where you can cook your meal beside two guys from Japan and a couple from England.
Entertainment Discounts
Many hostels offer guests free or discounted deals on local attractions, restaurants, tours and other entertainment activities.
Group Activities
Some hostels organize free group activities, like happy hours. This is perfect if you’re interested in meeting fellow travelers, or want to enjoy an excursion without the hassle of planning it. Most also sport large social spaces — imagine plush couches, pianos, board games, televisions, pool tables, libraries, on-site theaters — designed so guests can meet other travelers or unwind after a day of sightseeing.
For more information on hostels check out Hostelling International and Hostel World.
Read This Next
Easy, Healthy Hostel Meals
Food & Drink
Sep 14, 2014#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedDestinations / North America
Apr 25, 2024Celebrate May at Memphis in May International Festival
With May around the corner, it's time to put some last-minute, can’t-miss activities on your radar. Memphis, Tennessee, “Home of the Blues,” is set to host its annual Memphis in May International Festival, featuring the first-ever RiverBeat Music Festival, World Championship Barbeque Cooking Contest, a marathon along the Mississippi River and more.
Sponsored Content
Your Home Away from Home in Dallas
Open spaces, open thinking and open expression thrive at Aloft Dallas Downtown.
Hotel
Apr 25, 2024JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi Opens
JW Marriott’s second property in Kenya recently opened: JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi stands as the tallest hotel in the country at 35 stories. Located in the Westlands commercial district, JW Marriott Hotel Nairobi boasts 315 guestrooms, several dining destinations, a Spa by JW, a swimming pool, a fitness center and eight event spaces. A sky bar and lounge, as well as 51 serviced apartments, will open later this year.
Destinations / North America
Apr 24, 2024How to See the Northern Lights in Alberta, Canada, This Year
You may have heard 2024 is going to be one of the best years to see the northern lights and, if you’re interested in experiencing this phenomenon for yourself, you likely have been thinking about making the trip to Iceland or Scandinavia — notable destinations for northern lights viewing. However, you don’t have to leave North America to take in the Aurora Borealis. Alberta offers plenty of spots and ways to see the northern lights.
Sponsored Content
Interior Upgrades Begin Rolling Out Across United Fleet
United Airlines is in the midst of a major initiative to modernize its fleet over the next several years. After first announcing the plan in 2021, planes fitted with United’s signature interior are finally beginning to appear across the airline’s narrowbody fleet of Boeing and Airbus planes. United flyers are sure to notice these enhancements from the moment they step on board: Each new or updated plane sports remodeled seats, seatback entertainment screens for everyone, Bluetooth connectivity and more, all adding up to a better experience on every journey.
Trends
Apr 24, 2024This Internship Has You Cuddling Cows
Harvest Hosts, a membership program offering RVers access to more than 5,000 unique camping locations, recently announced the launch of its Cow Cuddling internship program for the summer. The internship offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for people to immerse themselves in the therapeutic practice of cuddling with cows while contributing to their well-being.
ShareThis