First Time Staying in a Hostel Dorm? Your Complete Guide
The idea of staying in a hostel dorm for the first time can feel intimidating. After all, it’s a bit like going to a sleepover with strangers who may turn out to be snorers or even sleepwalkers!
However, staying in a hostel dorm can also be one of the best travel decisions you ever make. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also have the chance to meet people from around the world and create memories together. In fact, many travelers say that the people they meet become the highlight of their trip.
Here is our guide to making the most of your hostel experience.
Girls-Only or Mixed Dorm?
Many hostels offer female-only dorms, and we do too at CAVELAND. We have two 4-bed dorms: one with its own bathroom and another sharing a bathroom with a single room.
You might choose a girls-only dorm if you simply feel more comfortable sharing with other female travelers. These dorms often come with a few extra touches, such as large mirrors, sanitary supplies, plenty of hangers for sundresses, and those lovely chats that happen just before everyone drifts off to sleep.
Mixed dorms, on the other hand, are perfect for travelers who enjoy a more social atmosphere. There is no right or wrong choice—the best option is simply the one that makes you feel most comfortable.
Checking in Late?
There is an unwritten code when it comes to arriving late at night.
Rule number one: be quiet! Chances are that your roommates are already asleep.
Instead of turning on the main light, use the flashlight on your phone. It’s also a good idea to pack your pyjamas, toiletries, and anything else you’ll need for the night near the top of your backpack. This way, you won’t spend half an hour digging around for your toothbrush while everyone else is trying to sleep.
At CAVELAND, we prepare a self-check-in for guests arriving after 10 PM, making late arrivals easy and stress-free.
Bottom or Top Bunk?
The eternal question!
Top bunks offer more privacy and fewer distractions. Plus, no one will be walking past your head in the middle of the night. They are often a great option for light sleepers and provide a better view of the room.
However, you should feel comfortable climbing up and sleeping in an elevated bed.
Bottom bunks, meanwhile, are easier to get in and out of. Therefore, they are a great choice if you tend to wake up during the night or need frequent trips to the bathroom. They also tend to feel more stable.
Unwritten Rules When Staying in a Hostel Dorm
Although nobody posts them on the wall, there is definitely some etiquette involved in staying in a hostel dorm.
The first and most important rule? Introduce yourself! Sharing a room feels much nicer when everyone has exchanged names.
Remember, the best travel memories rarely come from taking the perfect photo. More often, they come from the people you shared those moments with.
Here are a few more rules worth remembering:
- Use headphones.
- Keep lights low at night.
- Pack your bags quietly if leaving early.
- Respect personal space.
- Keep shared areas tidy.
- Avoid strong perfumes.
- Take phone calls outside whenever possible.
A little consideration goes a long way and helps everyone enjoy their stay.
First Time Staying in a Hostel Dorm? Here’s What to Pack
If this is your first time staying in a hostel dorm, a few items can make your experience much more comfortable.
Earplugs
Because you never know who might be a champion snorer.
Eye Mask
Perfect for blocking out early risers and late-night readers.
Padlock
Most hostels provide lockers, so it’s always a good idea to secure valuables such as your passport, laptop, and other important belongings.
Join Hostel Activities
Especially if you’re traveling solo, don’t be shy about joining hostel activities.
Whether it’s a movie night, yoga class, sampling dinner, or catamaran cruise, these experiences offer a completely different perspective of the destination. More importantly, they are the perfect opportunity to meet fellow travelers and share unforgettable moments together.
Staying in a hostel dorm may seem intimidating at first. However, it often turns out to be one of the most memorable parts of a trip.
You may arrive as strangers, but you might just leave with lifelong friends.