How To Choose The Right Hostel In India: 7 Smart Tips For Every Kind Of Traveller

Hostel stay is a growing culture in the tourism sector of India, and today, the stays are not what they used to be. What started off as a backpacker essential has now grown into a full-blown travel culture. Think curated breakfasts, cosy reading corners, rooftop movie nights and even yoga sessions. Now, a hostel is no more just a place to crash. It is, in fact, where stories start, friendships spark and itineraries evolve. You will find it in all avatars - from party pads to work-friendly hubs and wellness retreats. There is a hostel with a unique vibe for every traveller.

But, finding the right fit can be confusing, especially when each place looks dreamy online but feels wildly different in reality. Whether you are travelling solo or with friends, the hostel you pick can shape your entire trip. There's nothing to stress. We have curated a guide that will help you make the decision confidently.

Also Read: 12 Hotel Habits That Separate Good Guests From Annoying Ones

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7 Tips To Keep In Mind While Booking A Hostel For Your Travel:

1. Understand Your Hostel Personality:

Not all hostels are created equal. Some cater to partygoers with rooftop DJs, while others offer peaceful corners with yoga mats and library shelves. Before booking, check the vibe.

• For solo trips: Look for hostels with open lounges, communal kitchens and organised tours and activities.
• Remote work: Prioritise places with decent Wi-Fi, desk space and 24-hour electricity and back-up.
• Family-friendly: Look for quieter options or private rooms with en-suite bathrooms.

2. Safety First:

While India's hostel scene is evolving beautifully, safety is still non-negotiable. Here is what to check:

• Reviews: Skip generic star ratings. Read comments about night security, locker availability and staff responsiveness.
• Facilities: Look for individual lockers, CCTV coverage and reception hours.
• Location: Avoid hostels tucked away in deserted alleys, even if the price tempts you.

Bonus tip: If you a female traveller, look for female-only dorms or hostels that have received positive feedback from the guests.

Also Read: 5 Of The Most Expensive Airbnbs In The World For The Ultimate Getaway

3. Hygiene And Maintenance:

That artsy wall mural in the photos says nothing about clogged drains or linen quality. Look for signs that tell if the hostel maintains cleanliness standards:

• Are cleaning fees mentioned?
• Is housekeeping daily or alternately?
• Do previous guests mention bathroom hygiene?

Expert insight: A hostel with fewer beds per room often means better air circulation and easier cleaning.

4. Hidden Costs Can Add Up:

Low nightly rates are great, but check if you are paying extra for the basics like towels, toiletries, breakfast, WiFi, linen change et al. If not included, you might end up spending more than you would in a mid-range hotel.

Also Read: Hotel Or Homestay? What Your Stay Says About Your Travel Style

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5. Location Should Match Your Purpose:

A beachside hostel sounds dreamy until you realise all the places you want to visit are 12 km inland or more. So, matching your stay with the itinerary is a must.

Quick tip: Google Maps reviews often reveal hidden travel costs, like expensive cab rides or poor connectivity.

6. Look Beyond The 'Wow' Factor:

A swing chair and fairy lights do not guarantee a great stay. Hostels often curate photo-friendly spots to attract bookings but dig deeper to understand the reality. Do check if the beds are comfy, if your dorm has enough personal storage space and more.

Expert insight: Look for real guest photos to get a reality check.

7. Ask Questions Before Booking:

Send a message or email with a couple of clear queries:

• Do they allow late check-ins?
• Is there power back-up?
• Any special rules you should know?

How they respond says a lot about their service quality. Hostels with warm, responsive communication often make for a better experience overall.

Also Read: 8 Hotel Safety Tips That Every Smart Traveller Should Know Before Unpacking

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To summarise it all, we say, travel light, book smart and choose a space that makes you feel safe, seen and comfortable. Enjoy your trip!