This thorough packing list shares the best hostel essentials you won’t want to forget the next time you decide to bunk up.
As a frequent budget and solo traveler, I’ve stayed in quite a few hostels over the past 10+ years (yes, I’m that old). From Asia to Europe and some destinations in between, hostels have been a great way for me to meet people and save money.
But not all hostels are created equal, nor do they all come with the important amenities you need to sleep comfortably, feel secure, and rest easy. That’s why I’ve created this handy guide sharing my go-to hostel essentials packing list!
Let’s get packing!
Read more: Hostel Etiquette: 15 Unspoken Hostel Rules Everyone Should Know
How to Choose a Good Hostel
There are a few things you should know before booking a hostel. Here are my go-to tips that ensure I choose a quality hostel when needed.
Hostel Reviews and Rating
My number one rule for choosing a good hostel is only choosing one that’s highly rated. Nothing below an 8.5 on Booking.com or a 4 on Google, if I can help it.
Not only that but actually reading the reviews is one way I can get a sense of if I’m going to like the hostel and to get a better idea of what it’s actually like to stay there.
Do not skip on the reviews!
Hostel Vibes and Reputation
Hostels often have a certain vibe or reputation about them, and it’s very important to determine what it is before you go! That’s because depending on the type of traveler you are, it can greatly impact your experience.
Hostels feature varying degrees of social atmosphere, ranging from outright party vibes to more chill and, of course, somewhere in between.
If you’re not much for parties, you’re going to want to steer clear of those with a party reputation. And if you’re all about fun, the more chill hostels are going to feel boring.
Hostel Room Options
You may not realize it, but hostels often offer more than just standard, massive, mixed-gender dormitories.
Some also offer female-only dorms, smaller dorms for 6 people and up, and even private rooms for those who still want the social atmosphere but still maintain their own space.
Hostels can be a great place to stay for all types of travelers!
Read more: How to Afford to Travel: 15 Ways To Make Room in Your Budget for Travel
Hostel Bunk Amenities
As someone who’s stayed in countless hostels, I feel like I have a good idea of what every bunk should offer travelers.
In my opinion, you should try to stay at hostels that have these individual amenities at each and every bedside:
- A personal light
- An outlet
- A shelf and/or set of hooks
- A privacy curtain
- A locker or under-bed drawer
Not every hostel offers these amenities, but don’t fret. That’s what this packing list of hostel essentials is for!
Hostel Location
You should never settle for a hostel that’s located far from the main downtown or central part of a destination. At that point, it’s not worth it. Strive to be somewhere within walking distance of top attractions.
Hostel Events
Again, the entire point of staying in a hostel (besides its affordability) is its social atmosphere! So, checking out what (if any) events a hostel offers can be an important factor in deciding whether or not to stay there.
Some hostels around the world offer fun events like walking tours, organized bar crawls, live concerts, community dinners, yoga classes, etc. Be sure to scope it out before booking if taking part in social events interests you.
Read more: 16 Easy But Effective Ways to Grow Your Travel Savings Fund
A Hostel Essentials Packing List
No matter how good of a hostel you choose, there are quite a few hostel essentials you need to ensure the stay is as comfortable as possible. Here’s what I always pack when I have an upcoming hostel stay.
1. Earplugs
Earplugs are a must when staying in a hostel. You’re staying in a shared dorm where you’ll undoubtedly encounter snorers, partiers, and loud/inconsiderate bunkmates.
Mack’s Pillow Soft Silicone Earplugs are a classic pick that has long been known as some of the best earplugs for sleep. Made of soft silicone, these plugs are designed to mold to your ear shape for maximum comfort and soundproofing.
Loop Ear Plugs are a premium pick that is reusable and comes in fun colors. Made from hypoallergenic silicone, you can rest assured these are designed for comfort.
2. Eye Mask
In tandem with the above, an eye mask helps you maintain a good night’s rest without being awoken by rude dorm mates who may turn on the light or flash their phones without your consideration.
The Alaska Bear Silk Sleep Mask is a simple but effective flat, silky eye mask that is sure to do the trick. I love my silk eye mask for its soft and smooth fabric that’s easy on my skin.
For something a bit more elevated, the MZOO Sleep Eye Mask is made of memory foam and designed to be zero pressure, thanks to its 3D eye socket pockets.
3. Locker Lock
I do believe hostels are generally very safe places to stay. But that does not mean that theft isn’t a regular occurrence at hostels.
Coming with a locker lock is highly recommended to keep your belongings and valuables safe and sound while you’re out exploring. However, I do not recommend a lock with a key, as that’s a recipe for disaster if you accidentally lose the key.
The Puroma 4 Digit Combination Lock is a lightweight and portable option that I personally use.
However, you can’t go wrong with a classic Master Lock Combination Lock that’s a bit more heavy duty and may foil combo lock newbs who haven’t used them before.
4. Travel Safe
If your hostel doesn’t have lockers for each person (or you just want even more peace of mind), another great way to protect your small valuables is the Master Lock Portable Lock Box.
This portable travel safe requires a combination to be opened and features a security cable so you can secure it to something heavy.
5. Luggage Lock
If traveling with a large suitcase or really any wheeled luggage, there’s a good chance it won’t fit in any provided locker.
Having TSA-compatible luggage locks can help deter thieves from rifling around in your suitcase. Plus, luggage locks are generally handy for all travel.
6. Flip Flops/Shower Shoes
One aspect of staying in a hostel that could be viewed as a negative is having to share the bathroom and showers with others.
Coming with flip flops or designated shower shoes is a must to protect yourself and diminish any ick factor of using a public bathroom.
Any ole flip-flops will do the trick, but coming prepared with non-slip flip-flops and/or quick-drying pillow slides that haven’t been used outside (i.e., aren’t dirty) is recommended.
7. Microfiber Towel
Unlike hotel stays, hostels don’t often provide complimentary towels to guests. It’s one of the ways that they help keep costs down. However, hostels do often offer towel rentals for a low fee ($5 or less) if needed.
Or you can avoid the hassle and extra fees by bringing your own travel microfiber towel. These towels are great because they’re compact and quick drying, making them easy to pack.
8. Sleeping Bag Liner
Some hostels also charge extra for linens, so coming with a compact sleeping bag liner can be a useful way to avoid linen rentals.
Additionally, a sleeping bag liner is a great travel item for those visiting somewhere that requires overnight bus rides or sleeper trains, like in Asia and Europe.
The Vumos Sleeping Bag Liner is another great option that has a more silky fabric.
9. Pillowcase
Coming with your own linens, like a pillowcase, is also a great option for those concerned with cleanliness or worried about sleeping on hostel sheets. It’s not a secret that sometimes hostel cleanliness is lacking, again one reason they’re so cheap.
If you’re going to bring along your own, you may as well treat yourself to the Kitch Satin Pillowcase, which is highly reviewed for its skin and hair-protecting qualities.
Oh, and traveling with a pillowcase is a great way to pack more when traveling via budget airlines. And if you go so far as to even bring your own pillow, it’s useful to stay comfy on long-haul flights, car rides, trains, and buses.
10. Toiletries Bag
Hostels are all about those shared bathrooms, so keeping all your toiletries neatly organized and stored in a toiletry bag makes carrying all you need to get ready easier. Plus, it ensures you keep the bathroom clean and clear of belongings for the sake of your bunkmates.
I personally like my hanging toiletry bag because it allows me to open it up and access my toiletries by simply hanging it on a towel rack or hook.
11. Travel Bottles
One little thing to note about hostels is that, unlike hotels, they do not offer guests complimentary toiletries. So, coming with TSA-approved travel bottles filled with your fave toiletries is a must.
They’re also just great for general organization and travel, so you don’t have to haul your large bottles of soap, shampoo, etc.
12. Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash
As mentioned above, hostels do not provide shampoo, conditioner, or body wash.
Over the years, I’ve jumped aboard the solid shampoo, conditioner, and soap trend for a few reasons. It reduces my plastic use, saves me money because the product lasts longer, and is honestly easier to travel with my carry-on.
I highly recommend it! And here are great starter options if you’re a solid soap newbie:
13. Travel Soap Dish
If traveling with solid soap bars, a travel soap dish is a must! It protects your soap and your clothing from coming in contact with another.
Some travel soap dishes even come with a drainage tray or a water sponge to keep them dry and help them retain their shape so they last longer. Highly recommend!
14. Universal Travel Adapter
When traveling abroad, a universal travel adapter is a must! Not to mention, it’s a convenient all-in-one gadget that can be used in multiple countries across the world and ensures your devices stay charged at your bunk.
15. Passport Wallet
Staying organized while traveling is very important, especially when it comes to your passport! Having a passport wallet is a great way to keep track of your important travel docs.
For extra security, consider getting an RFID Passport Wallet. RFID protection is an added bonus because it makes it impossible for scammers to walk by and scan your credit card information.
16. Long Charging Cord
Sometimes, hostels are bad about outlet placement, which can make charging your phone and keeping it handy a pain.
Having a long 6+ foot cable is the way to go in case this happens. Even if the outlet is far from your pillow, it allows you to keep your phone close to you while charging overnight.
Check out this long cable for Apple products and this universal 10ft USB cable.
17. Portable Charger
Another option when hostel outlets are inconveniently placed is to come with a portable charger.
An external battery is also a great way to stay safe and connected when exploring a new city. Back-up power ensures you always have a way to stay connected and find your way back to your hostel via your smartphone.
Some recommended portable batteries:
- The Anker Portable Charger is a top-rated portable charger that tops the charts as one of the best quality, durable, and long-lasting.
- I recently purchased the Zendure SuperMini 20W per a New York Times recommendation in their 2023 roundup of the best portable chargers and I love how compact it is and that it can charge my phone nearly two times.
- Omnicharge Omni 20+ 20000mah Power Bank is a powerful charging bank that packs a punch! This thick charger allows you to charge your phone and larger devices like laptops. It’s great for those who require a lot of power and must charge multiple devices simultaneously.
18. Travel Disinfecting Wipes
Shared, public places mean that you’ll likely come in contact with unknown and unwanted germs. Carrying travel-sized Clorox disinfecting wipes means you can clean up your area and stay safe from harmful germs.
19. Travel Mirror
You don’t want to be that person who hogs the mirror in the bathroom or dorm. And you don’t want to be the person stranded without a mirror because your fellow roommate is hogging it!
That’s why coming prepared with a travel mirror makes it easy to do your makeup at your bunk on your own time. This rectangular pocket mirror and compact-shaped LED lighted makeup mirror are two great options.
20. Noise Canceling Headphones
Although the social aspect of hostels is fun, there are undoubtedly going to be moments when you’re going to want some quiet, me-time.
Packing a quality set of noise-canceling headphones like Apple AirPods Pro or SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 2 True Wireless Earbuds is necessary to relax in bed free of the distraction of what others are doing in your dorm.
21. Instax Mini + Film
Less of an essential and more of a fun travel accessory, I’ve come to love my Fujifilm Instax Mini. It’s a great way to capture memories that print out instantly and to share them with new friends.
Of course, you can capture images with your smartphone, but there’s something special about an Instax camera. And sharing is made even easier without having to exchange phone numbers or emails.