Hostels, Hotels or Airbnbs: My Preference and Why!

Why I Prefer Hostels Over Airbnbs When Backpacking

As a backpacker who loves to explore new places on a budget, I’ve had my fair share of experiences staying in hostels and Airbnbs. But when it comes to choosing where to stay, hostels are always my go-to. They offer a unique, community-driven experience that perfectly aligns with the backpacker lifestyle. However, despite my love for hostels, I’ve realised that there’s a need for a balance between hostels and other more private accommodations—especially if you’re working remotely on the road.

The Social Vibe of Hostels

One of the main reasons I prefer hostels is the atmosphere. There’s something about the energy of a hostel that you just can’t replicate in Airbnbs or hotels. Whether you're travelling solo or with a group, hostels are often filled with like-minded backpackers and travellers eager to meet new people. You can join pub crawls, Karaoke nights, or simply hang out in common areas, sharing stories, playing card games or pool and making friends from all over the world. For me, this social aspect is what makes hostels feel like home, especially when I’m on the road alone. No matter where I am in the world I always bump into an Irish person too!

The Cost-Effective Option

Let’s face it, backpacking is about stretching your budget. Hostels are typically much cheaper than hotels or Airbnbs, making them a no-brainer for budget-conscious travelers. Most hostels offer dorm rooms with flexible pricing, and they often include breakfast or kitchen facilities so you can save even more. While Airbnbs might offer a cozy private space, they usually come with a higher price tag—especially in popular destinations. Plus, hotels can feel isolated and pricey for what they offer compared to the vibrancy of a hostel. But what about private room in a hostel?

\What I have found, when it comes down to it by cents, they are really not that much cheaper than booking an Airbnb... so if you are looking for a private room you may as well book an Airbnb.

The Downsides of Hostels: Not Always Ideal for Working

That said, while I absolutely love the vibe and affordability of hostels, there are some challenges, especially if you're working remotely. For one, not all hostels are equipped for digital nomads. Wi-Fi is usually available, but it can be unreliable, and there are few hostels that provide suitable spaces for working. If you're on a Zoom call or trying to focus on a project, the hustle and bustle of a shared dorm or noisy common areas can quickly become frustrating ( and its just unprofessional to have noise in the background of a work call).

I’ve found that hostels can be hit or miss when it comes to providing quiet, private spaces to work. Some have cozy lounges or quiet rooms, but many don’t have the infrastructure or environment to be productive, especially when you need privacy or want to take calls. That's why it’s important to have a balance between staying in hostels for the community and booking an Airbnb if you need to focus on work for a few days.

The Limitations of Airbnbs

Airbnbs, on the other hand, can be a great option if you're looking for privacy, a full kitchen, or more luxury amenities. But when I’m traveling solo, Airbnbs just aren’t as fun. The lack of a social atmosphere can leave me feeling isolated, even if the place is beautiful or has great amenities. You can’t beat the sense of camaraderie and shared experience that comes with staying in a hostel, which is hard to replicate in the quiet solitude of an Airbnb.

Airbnbs sometimes come with lots of rules too—no parties, no noise after a certain hour, and limited guest access. While that may sound nice in theory, it doesn’t quite align with the carefree spirit of backpacking that I am looking for. And let’s not forget, Airbnbs can often come with hidden costs like cleaning fees, service charges, and security deposits that may make the experience less affordable than expected.

The Flexibility of Hostels

One of the things I love most about hostels is their flexibility. They cater to all types of travellers—whether you're a backpacker, a digital nomad, or someone who prefers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere. Hostels aren’t one-size-fits-all; there are options ranging from party hostels with lots of social activities to quieter, more relaxed ones that offer a peaceful retreat. This flexibility makes it easy to find a hostel that suits your mood and needs for the trip.

The Trade-Offs: Comfort and Amenities

Despite the many advantages, hostels do have their drawbacks. Some dorm beds can be uncomfortable, with thin mattresses or creaky frames that make a good night’s sleep a bit challenging. Not all hostels have swimming pools/ gyms/ bars/ laundry services and the food options can be hit or miss. Many hostels do offer basic kitchen facilities where you can cook your own meals, but the food served (if any) might not be the best.

On the other hand, Airbnbs typically offer better comfort and nicer amenities (depending on how much you want to spend), but they come with a price. If you’re not interested in the impersonal nature of a hotel, or if you’d rather have a more authentic, community experience, hostels remain the best choice.

Finding a Balance

Ultimately, the choice between hostels, Airbnbs, and hotels depends on what you value most during your travels. If you're backpacking and looking for a social, budget-friendly experience, hostels are unbeatable. However, if you're working remotely and need a quiet space for calls or focused work, it might be worth considering a mix of both options. You can enjoy the social vibe of hostels, while still having access to the privacy and comfort of Airbnbs or hotels when you need to recharge or get work done. In the end, it’s all about finding the right balance to suit your needs as you explore the world.