When planning your next trip, you may wonder what type of accommodation best fits the type of trip you want to have. Do you want to be very social and meet a lot of people and plan your activities day by day? Or if your bed at the end of the night is a refuge and you know you need a dark room and complete silence to get any meaningful sleep? No matter what your preferences are, deciding between a hotel or hostel sets the tone for your trip. Here is a guide that will help make that decision easier:
What’s the Main Difference Between Hotels and Hostels?
Most of us are used to hotels and have probably stayed at one at some point. All types of people stay in hotels—travelers, businesspeople, families. There are budget-friendly options as well as very luxurious options. They also offer private rooms and bathrooms, and typically have turndown service. Hotels are good for those traveling who need space and privacy to enjoy themselves.
Conversely, a hostel typically puts people in a room with bunk beds. You can choose from one gender to both genders. Bathrooms are shared and there is usually a kitchen and locker space where you can leave your things. Hostels are great for those traveling on a budget who also want to meet a lot of people. Hostels will put on socials and plan walking tours to get people talking with each other. They are also significantly cheaper than hotels.
Where Does Safety Come in?
You should always be smart when you travel and make sure you never leave your bags or drinks alone. Many people think hostels are this lawless place for travelers, but that isn’t farther from the truth! Nearly every hostel has lockers to put your bags in (some may even require that you use them). Even if you’re staying in a non-gendered room, the showers are gendered. And there may be a curfew so people aren’t crashing in at all hours of the night. But, if you just want to throw your bag anywhere and shower whenever a hotel may be a better option.
What Best Fits your Trip?
If you’re going on a multiple city and country backpacking extravaganza, a hostel may be a better fit. You can share stories with others, learn how to best navigate certain areas from people who have already been, and save a lot of money. If you’re traveling on a romantic trip, a hotel will probably be worth the extra money. And if you’re traveling with a group of friends, it just really depends on the goals of the group and what everyone is willing to spend and compromise on.
No matter where you decide to rest your head at night, you want to be in a room and place where you feel safe in. Many feel that way a hotel room with two queen beds. Many feel the same safety in a 12-person dorm room. Think about your values and what you want to get out of your trip before you book accommodation—and then get excited for your trip!
