Hostels are a great way to save some money while traveling abroad. Built for college students originally, hostels have humble beginnings in Germany.
Hostel vs Hotel
A hostel is typically a pay-for-a-bed (although paying for a room is sometimes available) system that was designed initially for the young and carefree to have somewhere cheap to stay and meet other world travelers from all over the globe. The idea was cultivated by teacher Richard Schirrmann who noticed how badly a temporary place to stay was needed for short periods of time for the curious at heart and thus created the still running hostel in Altena Castle in 1912.
Safety in Hostels
Many travelers regard hostels as perfectly safe environments with little issues. Hostels were also meant for backpackers and light travelers – so Prada suitcases and expensive jewelry are not typically in the mix! Some hostels even have the option to room with the same gender only which may give female solo travelers an extra piece of mind.
We also recommend looking at each hostel’s house rules as well as each house’s reviews. Our favorite reviews to look at are the moderately rated reviews as they see both the good and the could-be-better aspects of the hostel. The best way to book a hostel and learn more about the hostels in the area you will be in is checking out hostelworld.com
Ensuring your belongings are locked up is another great way to stay safe. Backpack locks and utilizing the lockers that some hostels offer are perfect options. Regular travel tips are also important to remember, such as never giving out your personal information and being cautious when exploring at night.
Bring backpacker friendly safety products! This includes the Hush Hush Brush or Sassy Spray Diversion Safe, the Written Off, and the Blaire Necklace.
Travel Buddies
Many hostels promote a social environment where you can cook and hang out in common rooms, as well as chat on some apps such as Hostel World’s. We recommend avoiding one-on-one chats online unless you have met the person in real life and never accepting hangout invitations to private homes.
Try being the most outgoing person you know! Make friends with your same gender so if you do get invited somewhere with a new group of people, you will be able to navigate with them. Don’t forget your Cover Up Cup Covers for you and your new gal pals during nights out on the town!
Connect with your local Damsel Safety Educator here for more safety tips and product recommendations as well as a product discount!
