Don't Shower at a Hostel Without Flip-Flops
For some travelers, staying at a hostel is a necessity if they want to spend time in countries like Europe. Staying at a hostel doesn't have to be a terrible experience that undermines your trip. With a few tips, you can make it a more pleasant experience. Here are 20 ways to make your hostel stay more comfortable.
1. Bring High-Quality Earplugs
Hostels are noisy places filled with peope checking in late, snorers, and endless hallway traffic. Invest in high-quality earplugs to dramatically reduce ambient noise and sleep more soundly. Foam earplugs can work, but silicone or custom-molded ones are more comfortable for overnight use. By blocking out noise, you can have a more peaceful experience.
2. Use a Sleep Mask
Dorm rooms are rarely completely dark. A soft, contoured sleep mask can block out unwanted brightness, so you can get a good night's sleep. Go for one with padded or molded eye cups. A sleep mask lets you sleep with some privacy even in a shared space.
3. Pack a Travel Pillowcase
Bringing your own pillowcase will make you feel more comfortable and provides some familiarity. It's also an hygienic option and a smart choice if you have sensitive skin. You'll feel like your sleeping in your bed at home even in an unfamiliar hostel with your own pillowcase.
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4. Bring Flip-Flops for Showering
Most hostels have suspect bathrooms when it comes to cleanliness. Flip-flops protect your feet from dirty floors and will give you more confidence to shower for longer. Flip-flops also dry quickly and prevent slipping.
5. Bring a Quick-Dry Travel Towel
Travel towels are lightweight and dry faster than regular towels, making them ideal for a stay at a hostel. They are especially good if you're in a humid climate and when you're constantly on the move. These towels prevent a musty smell from developing and they're easy to pack and wash in a sink.
6. Claim the Bottom Bunk
As soon as you enter your hostel room, do everything you can to claim the bottom bunk. It feels more private, is easier to access, and is less prone to motion and creaking. You will enjoy more control over your space and can add a curtain with ease.
7. Pack a Small Blanket or Travel Throw
Hostel blankets are the worst. They're thin, scratchy, and probably not the most hygienic. Bring your own lightweight blanket to ensure you have one that's soft, warm, and comfortable. It can also be used as extra padding if you happen to get stuck with a hard mattress.
8. Bring a Lock
Most hostels have lockers, but you'll have to bring your own lock to keep your belongings safe. A strong, compact padlock will make you feel more comfortable about the security of your stuff. Combination locks are good, as you won't have to keep track of keys, but key locks are very durable.
9. Make a Small Bedside Kit
Pack your essentials, like earplugs, lip balm, and a charging cable, into a small bag or pouch to make bedtime a smoother process. This will make up for the lack of a nightstand in most hostels.
10. Bring a Lightweight Sarong
Sarongs are incredibly versatile. You can use it as a curtain for privacy, a light blanket, or as a cover-up. They are easy to pack and wash.
11. Keep Lavender Spray Nearby
A travel-sized lavender spray can make any musty hostel room smell better. It adds a calming scent, but make sure that the other travelers won't mind.
12. Use Compression Packing Cubes
Organization is key to hostel living. Packing cubes will keep your stuff organized, so you don't have to rummage through everything whenever you're looking for something. These can reduce stress and keep your clothing sorted.
13. Carry a Travel Water Bottle
A reusable bottle will keep you hydrated. Hostels often have a kitchen or a water refill station, so carrying your own bottle can prevent having to get a cup of water in the middle of the night.
14. Use a Small Personal Fan
Hostels can be hot and stuffy, so using a small USB-powered fan clipped on a rail of your bunk can make a world of difference. These can increase airflow and reduce humidity, letting you sleep better.
15. Download Entertainment
Never trust hostel Wi-Fi. Download movies, TV shows, podcast episodes, and audiobooks to ensure you have some entertainment at your fingertips. This can help create a relaxing nighttime routine and allow you to steer clear of common areas.
16. Sleep in Light Layers
You can't control the temperature in a hostel, so you need to be prepared. One strategy is to sleep in light layers, and if it gets too hot, simply remove the layers until you're comfortable.
17. Store Toiletries in a Grab-and-Go Bag
Invest in a small, waterproof bag for your toiletries. This will make your hostel stay and trip much easier and more convenient. Since hostels often force you to share sinks and showers, these bags can keep you organized so you don't take up too much time.
18. Develop a Light Nighttime Routine
Establishing a quick nighttime routine can help you sleep in an unfamiliar place. This routine can include washing your face, stretching, or reading just before bed.
19. Respect Quiet Hours
If you expect comfort and quiet, then you need to give that to others as well. Respect quiet hours by using headphones, and try to cultivate a peaceful environment for everyone to enjoy.
20. Choose Your Hostel Carefully
Comfort starts in the research phase, so take your time picking a hostel. Most major cities offer options, and they are not all equal, so be careful.
