Many regular tourists would agree that traveling is one of the most rewarding experiences one can experience. New cultures, new places, and new memories are just a few of the most significant factors shared between people who love to travel.
But, one thing that differs significantly between travelers is how they feel about their lodging options. Some opt for hotels or resorts only, while others prefer apartments, hostels, or motels.
That said, depending on what sort of lodging you decide on, your packing list will vary. For example, staying at a resort or hotel, there is no need to pack extra towels, whereas, at a hostel or apartment, you’d probably better pack some towels just in case.
So, if you are wondering what to bring to a hostel, I have put together this handy guide of what you what to bring to a hostel in order to stay safe and be comfortable.
What To Bring to a Hostel – The Packing-List
Packing for any trip can be a daunting task. When it comes to lodging at hostels specifically, in comparison to most hotels, there are several items that you’ll need to pack along that you otherwise might not need.
- A Lock for Each of Your Bags
- Stuff To-Do for a Rainy Day
- Something to Block Out Noise
- Prescription Medications
- Your Most Comfortable Backpack
- Comfortable Clothes
- House Shoes or Comfy Slippers
- Bathroom and Grooming Supplies
- Towels and Washcloths
- Adapters, Extra Cords, Chargers, and Power Banks
- Anything Else You Can’t go a Day Without
1. A Lock for Each of Your Bags
If your travels involve any major public transit, you should already be in the habit of packing locks for each of your bags.
That said, if you do all of your own driving and have never stayed at many hostels, perhaps you are not familiar with this safety hack.
While staying at a hostel, any bags left behind while you aren’t in your room should be zipped shut and closed with a lock that only you have the code or key to.
2. Stuff To-Do for a Rainy Day
One of the main differences between major hotels and many hostels is the level of entertainment provided. And, while some hostels may exceed many hotels in this area, this is far from the normal story with hostels.
So, pack some entertainment if you plan to spend downtime in the room. A laptop and your favorite DVDs, a handful of books, or your preferred mobile device, whatever you enjoy, make sure that you bring some along.
3. Something to Block Out Noise
If you have never stayed at a hostel before, you may not be prepared for the level of noise that sometimes comes with the territory. Those who regularly travel and lodge at hostels know this oh too well, and they come ready for it.
Headphones, earplugs, or even cotton balls work for most people. Depending on the sort of hostel you select, this may or may not be necessary but it is better to be prepared than not when it comes to something capable of such an impact on your sleep and relaxation time.
4. Prescription Medications
One of the essential items to pack to hostels is any prescription medications you or anyone in your group require regularly.
Assuming that everything will be fine and that you will be ok without your medicine for a few days is never a great move. You never know what may lie in store for you during your travels.
Likewise, if traveling far, consider purchasing and packing some primary medicine (such as aspirin) and first aid products (like bandaids).
5. Your Most Comfortable Backpack
Hotels are a bit more secure than the average hostel. That said, hostels are not dangerous places for the most part. They may have fewer security measures in place.
That means, while you are away exploring the city, someone could theoretically get into your room and go through your things looking for valuables to get away with. For this reason alone, you should carry a backpack to always keep your most precious items with you.
Even more, hostels are frequented by backpackers and the explorative type, in which case a comfortable backpack is even more crucial. Nothing is worse than walking around somewhere new and instead of enjoying it, wishing it was over already so the pain in your neck, back, shoulders, and feet would stop.
A great backpack will significantly reduce the amount of stress on your body.
6. Comfortable Clothes
In a hostel, the more comfort you bring from home, the more enjoyable and relaxing your stay is. That said, nearly everyone enjoys a nice comfortable outfit or two that you would normally wear around the house. Make sure to pack them, even if you think you won’t have time for lounging around in your room.
You never know what may happen or how the weather may swing one way or another, preventing you from leaving the hostel for hours to days.
In these situations, you will be glad to have your most comfortable clothes. Likewise, be sure to pack your favorite pajamas as well.
7. House Shoes or Comfy Slippers
Truly a sub-category of the one listed directly above, house shoes or comfy slippers are a must if you plan to spend any real amount of time in your room or walking about the hostel facilities.
After spending several hours daily walking around and visiting attractions (while wearing regular shoes), house shoes or comfy slippers will feel like heaven on your sore feet. Don’t leave home without them!
8. Bathroom and Grooming Supplies
When staying in a hostel, shampoo, conditioner, and sanitary items are not necessarily provided.
Some hostels provide a roll of toilet paper and possibly even travel-size soaps and shampoos. However, you should not count on this being the case and should pack your own.
The most important of these bathroom and grooming supplies include toothpaste, tweezers, nail clippers, a hairbrush or comb, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, and anything else you’ll need from your bathroom at home while traveling.
9. Towels and Washcloths
If you are staying overnight, you will also need to pack up enough towels and washcloths to last you in addition to your other bathroom supplies.
Albeit some hostels do provide a towel or two, it is never wise to assume. Save yourself some headaches by stowing away a few linens, just in case.
10. Adapters, Extra Cords, Chargers, and Power Banks
Today, most people don’t leave home without their phones (let alone an arsenal of additional mobile devices such as GPS, tablets, and other technological gadgets.)
That said, these devices all require battery power. That means you will need to charge them not only before leaving but several times during your trip.
So, double-check your bags for all the proper cords, chargers, and adapters you may need. In addition, if you plan on staying gone (from your hostel room) for extended periods, you should consider investing in and packing along a decent power bank.
11. Anything Else You Can’t Go a Day Without
Just as everyone’s favorite travel destinations, lodging options, and other opinions vary, so do the items they can’t live without.
These items could be needed, such as an inhaler for your well-being. But they also include comfort items such as your favorite sweater and blanket, some candy, or even a brand of cigarettes.
Whatever you can’t seem to live without, make sure you don’t even have to try surviving a day without it. More comfort equals less stress, which means having a better time and creating happier memories.
