Sometimes, besides being lost in life, you are also lost about where and how to find your perfect backpacker accommodation. Many possibilities emerge when you desperately type your research on search engines. In this ocean of information, you might pass over the one that could have saved you some coins or offered an exclusive and unique shelter.
While you may be familiar with the most popular backpacker websites and apps, do you really know how to use them and be part of this small fraction of travellers? And what about the lesser-known offering unbeatable deals?
"Once the travel bug bites there is no known antidote, and I know that I shall be happily infected until the end of my life"
You might not be as knowledgeable as you would like to be, and I am still learning too. The key to travel knowledge isn’t your geography lessons (even though knowing that Europe isn’t a country is valuable) but your curiosity to discover. So listen up, open this treasure trove, and be ready to find your next backpacker accommodation as an OG wanderer.
Why should you use booking sites rather than booking directly on accommodation/hostels’ websites?
Let’s be honest and first display the main disadvantage of using backpacker accommodation websites and apps: when looking for hostels or properties on booking sites, not all of them are listed there.
The sites only show the ones that have a deal with them. Therefore, you can miss some excellent, affordable, small places. No surprise here. Despite that, using these websites is very convenient and makes the whole process simpler and faster. You don’t have to use search engines and open countless websites in your browser, consuming your expensive phone package abroad way quicker than expected. Not only do these platforms streamline your search process, but they also open doors to exclusive discounts (whaou!) and offer a peek into the experiences of fellow travellers through reviews and ratings (second whaou!).
When you see what other travellers have to say about a place, and how they rated and described it, your decision becomes easier.
If the benefits of using booking systems convince you, take a look at these top websites for booking hostels. Each one of them has its advantages, and all are extremely useful.
The first obvious backpacker accommodation gem: HostelWorld
When talking about the OG, here comes the OG. HostelWorld boasts an impressive roster of over 16,000 hostels across 180 countries, giving you room to explore the world.
Many know this app & website as this is one of the most used worldwide and for genuine reasons. HostelWorld stands as the digital mecca for backpackers seeking a blend of affordability and social atmosphere, offering places where beautiful connections blossom with travellers from every corner of the globe.
While I could only say that I love hostels, the experience deserves to be lived at least once. After that, you could either love me for having pushed you into it or hate me.
If you’ve never done this before, don’t worry – hostels have come a long way since 20 years and old sweaty rooms. It’s a much nicer world of hostels out there these days, with just about something for everyone. The site also has affordable guesthouses and hotels too. So, if you feel like you deserve a peaceful night, a quick check might be worth it.
HostelWorld Advantages
Extensive Selection
A vast array of hostels worldwide, provides backpackers with numerous choices.
Community Reviews
You will be able to see honest reviews from travellers like yourself (which is a mandatory thing to look after). The best way to ensure your chosen place meets your expectations.
User-Friendly Interface
Simplifies the search and booking process, enhancing user experience. It’s easy to use and filter accommodation depending on your search criteria.
Good customer service
To support if there are ever any issues.
The mobile app
Offers you access to the hostel social activity schedule, guides and blog articles about a place (even though I know that as a true traveller, you will first dive into my blog), a live chat with travellers staying at the same date as you, and possibilities to join activities organised by the hostel itself or its partner around.
Green Company
They are now a climate-neutral verified company (2021 – South Pole Label), a step in the right direction as a SlowSight Soul ally.
Disadvantages of HostelWorld
Variety Limitation
Primarily focused on hostels, limiting options for those seeking different accommodation types.
Price Variation
Occasionally, prices might be slightly higher due to booking fees.
Information policy
When looking for specific dates, the website only shows their own available hostels during that time. Keep this in mind. It means when a hostel is not available on Hostelworld for your chosen dates, you will not see this hostel at all – this is a real pity.
Why is that? Even Hostelworld does not have 100% of the availability of all hostels worldwide. Each hostel chooses how many beds and rooms they allocate to the different platforms.
The SlowSight Soul tip to use HostelWorld
Use the Wish List feature to bookmark potential stays, then monitor for last-minute deals or cancellations. It’s the perfect tool for flexible travellers looking to stretch their budget further and pay for more beers to their buddies.
The friend who always has good plans: Booking.com
Who has never heard about Booking.com? You? Then, you might have lived in a cave lately or you surely haven’t been to the Backpacker Starter Pack. Booking.com is one, if not the largest booking portal online for accommodation. This gigantic net offers almost every single accommodation type on this planet you could dream about through an extensive catalogue, from hotels to hostels and everything in between. Perfect for every travel style and budget.
For this reason, this platform is many people’s first choice for finding a shelter for the night with precise information about your ideal place. There are quite a few hostels on Booking.com, but not as many as you may find on Hostelworld. It’s simply the right place to be for backpackers who cherish simplicity and efficiency.
Booking Advantages
Versatile Options
A broad spectrum of accommodation types suits various preferences.
Price Match Guarantee
Ensures competitive pricing, making it a cost-effective choice.
User Experience
Seamless navigation and booking, complemented by reliable traveller reviews.
Cancellation policy
Easy to cancel your booking for free if you need to (depending on which place you’ve booked – quite useful for the spontaneous budget traveller you are).
Deposits are not always mandatory
This depends on the hostel. The hostel itself chooses on Booking if they want a deposit or not. That does not mean that there is a free cancellation! Pay attention to this before you make your final reservation.
Great discounts
Numerous great deals popping up regularly.
Disadvantages of Booking
Overwhelming Choices
The vast array of options can sometimes be daunting for those seeking a more curated experience.
Do not target the backpacker community
Less focus on hostel culture for those seeking community experiences.
The SlowSight Soul tip to use Booking
Keep an eye on deals by marking your favourite places. Don’t book them yet! Wait a few days, check regularly, and you might have some juicy surprises and offers!
Leverage the “map view” feature to find accommodations in less touristy areas, immersing yourself more authentically in local cultures while potentially discovering lower prices.
The newborn to have in mind: Agoda
Are you yet not convinced by these two first options? I can see that you are a real backpacker trying to find the best deal. While your eyes shine while receiving this compliment, let me introduce our third player: Agoda. This company shines with a strong presence in Asia, offering an impressive selection of accommodations at competitive prices. They are currently developing and spreading in the rest of the world while keeping attractive prices. This company is for the savvy backpacker looking to explore the East and the rest of the world without breaking the bank.
Which backpacker accommodation website or app is essential for you when travelling?
Agoda Advantages
Asian Speciality
Unmatched in its range of accommodations in Asia.
Price Competitiveness
Often offers the best deals, particularly for budget travellers. If you find a cheaper rate, Agoda will match it.
Rewards Program
Benefits frequent users, making it attractive for long-term travellers.
Disadvantages of Agoda
Varied Quality of Reviews
Less consistency in the review system compared to other platforms.
Customer service
Can be inconsistent.
Regional Focus
Its strongest offerings are still in Asia (but currently expanding. I found great deals with Agoda in Europe and South America!)
The SlowSight Soul tip to use Agoda
Use the “Secret Deals” feature to unlock exclusive discounts on high-quality accommodations that might usually be slightly beyond your backpacker’s budget.
Beyond the ordinary: Airbnb
Airbnb has taken the particular to particular renting market to another level. Besides the incredible story behind the two founders and the initial idea, Airbnb has revolutionised travel accommodation by connecting backpackers with local hosts.
It offers unique stays that range from a cosy room to entire homes, sometimes emphasising authentic travel experiences if you have the chance and the willingness to find a room and share a living experience with locals.
Much loved by global travellers, Airbnb also has a decent selection of hostels. The site is simple to use, but you might not be able to read as many reviews from other travellers. However, one great thing about Airbnb is that there are some great discount codes to help you save some coins.
Airbnb Advantages
Unique Stays
Enables immersive cultural experiences through diverse local accommodations.
Flexible Options
Caters to various budgets and travel styles, from minimalist to luxury.
Community-Driven
Reviews and host interactions add a layer of trust and personal connection.
Disadvantages of Airbnb
KYC
Stands for “Know Your Customer”. In case you want to book a hostel or any other accommodation with Airbnb, you need to verify and confirm your identity. While enhancing security and reliability, this process might be a disadvantage for some.
Price Inconsistency
Prices can vary widely, with some options leaning towards the pricier side.
Less Social
Fewer opportunities to meet other travellers (but more opportunities to meet locals if you stay at their place. It’s up to you!)
More Research
Requires a bit more time to find the best value.
The SlowSight Soul tips to use Airbnb
Filter for “SuperHosts” to ensure high quality, and always try to reach out to hosts before booking to negotiate better rates or longer stay discounts. Nothing warranty here! But it is worth giving it a shot and trying your commercial skills.
The price comparator: HostelZ
This last player is not a backpacker accommodation booking website or app. Before you start yelling at me for lying in the title, you should know that HostelZ could be super useful, helping you to gain some time. Now that you are calm, listen, this website differentiates itself with a unique comparison feature, allowing backpackers to see prices from different websites for the same hostel. It’s a one-stop shop for those keen on snagging the best deal.
Their values and dedication to connecting backpackers with the world’s most unique hostel experiences coupled with their main comparison feature where you can put side to side three different hostels, and many criteria, ensure you find the best value for your stay and desires.
HostelZ Advantages
Price Comparison
Empowers users to make informed decisions by comparing prices across platforms.
Comprehensive Listings
Offers an extensive database of hostels worldwide.
User Reviews
Relies on genuine traveller feedback, ensuring the reliability of the information.
Dedicated Focus
Great insights for backpackers looking for hostel accommodations
"Of the richest moments in human life…is the departure upon a distant journey into unknown lands."
Disadvantage of HostelZ
Niche Focus
Exclusively targets hostel accommodations, limiting options for those looking for alternative stays. However, you are on this site for a thing, aren’t you?
Simplistic Interface
While functional, the website’s design might not offer the best user experience.
No direct booking
Functions as a comparison tool and not a booking platform
The SlowSight Soul tips to use HostelZ
Use HostelZ to initiate your search, then double-check your chosen hostel’s social media for direct deals or contact them directly to ask about longer-term stay discounts that aren’t advertised online.
Do you know any other good websites for booking hostels or any backpacker accommodation?
Find the perfect backpacker accommodation for your next adventure
As we’ve navigated the digital options to find your perfect backpacker accommodations, it’s clear that the choices are as varied as the destinations we seek. These platforms are a means to book a bed; they’re your launchpad to adventures unknown, connections unforeseen, and stories yet to be written.
Finding the right accommodation can sometimes feel like trying to pick the perfect backpack companion. It’s about balance. Too cautious, and you might miss out on hidden gems; too impulsive, and you may end up wishing you’d looked a little longer.
When was the last time you chose a stay that felt like it was meant for you? May your choices lead you to unforgettable experiences.
Bon voyage!
Wander with Purpose – Connect with Heart.
