The same mentality goes for hostels vs. hotels vs. camping as it does for airlines. Hostels are usually the preferred accommodation method for students, and travelers on a budget the world over. Paying by night, just for a bed seems pretty basic, but hostels anymore do not constrain themselves to a cot and communal bathroom. It is possible in many hostels to have a hotel like experience, or better, for a fraction of what hotels cost. Traveling by yourself especially, hostels are a great way to meet people, find information about the area you are visiting, and have options to do in your downtime at the hostel itself. There are a few circumstances however that might make you consider other options to hostels.
One common scenario is if you are traveling with a group, like four people, and are able to find hotel rooms or bed and breakfasts that have two double beds. At a good price, this way of sharing sleeping arrangements is often very affordable. Additionally, you have the comfort of having your own private room and bathroom.
For the very money strapped traveler, there are several other ways to cut corners. Camping is definaitelty a viable option in more remote areas. Often, in national parks or near beaches, it is an excellent way to take advantage of the location, and really get the most for your money out of the trip.
Issues that may arise with the various options:
Hostels: When staying with 10 other people for example in a room (or 20 as the case was for me one night) the issue of security arises. Mixed dorm rooms are generally a fine option, but I have, as well as talked to several other girls, who have had issues with over zealous male bunkmates.
Camping: The security issue again, however as it pertains to your stuff. Should have spent the extra 15 euros on a hostel when your backpack gets stolen from the campsite huh?
Some of the best hostel booking websites:
for hotel reservations, look at www.lastminutetravel.com
for finding camping options in the country you are staying in, look into the country’s website, which should have links to camping resources.
