Hostels are amazing spaces where travellers from all over the world come together to share stories, adventures, and sometimes even meals. But with shared spaces come shared responsibilities. If you’re planning to stay in a hostel, there are some unspoken (and spoken!) rules you need to follow to keep the experience fun and harmonious for everyone.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned backpacker, here’s a guide to all the things you shouldn’t do in a hostel. Trust me—get these right, and you’ll be everyone’s favourite dorm mate (or at least avoid making enemies!)
1. Don’t Be the Noise Machine
Nobody wants to be woken up at 3 AM by rustling plastic bags, loud conversations, or your 15th alarm going off. Remember: in dorm rooms, people may be jet-lagged, have early mornings, or simply need their sleep.
What to Avoid:
- Loud phone calls (seriously, go to the common area for those!).
- Setting multiple alarms and letting them ring endlessly (please please please don’t be that person)
- Talking loudly when others are obviously asleep.
Pro tips:
1) Use your phone’s flashlight or a dim light instead of the main dorm light if you’re coming in late or leaving early.
2) If you’re leaving early the next morning, pack you bags the day before or do it in the corridor outside your dorm to avoid waking people up.
2. Don’t Treat the Dorm Like Your Personal Closet
Yes, hostels are casual, but that doesn’t mean it’s okay to spread your stuff all over the room. Space is limited, and nobody likes tripping over your clothes or stepping on your shoes.
What to Avoid:
- Leaving your belongings scattered around.
- Blocking pathways or beds with your backpack.
- Taking over someone else’s bed space (yep, it happens).
Pro tip: Use the locker provided to store your things, and keep your essentials in a small daypack for easy access.
3. Don’t Be the Shower Hog
Hostel showers are shared, and everyone deserves their turn. Spending ages singing your heart out or perfecting your skincare routine when other people need to shower? Not cool.
Pro tip: Be quick, tidy up after yourself, and bring flip-flops for hygiene.
4. Don’t Forget Personal Hygiene
Speaking of hygiene, you’re sharing close quarters with strangers, so this is not the time to skip showers or forget deodorant. Please, for everyone’s sake, stay fresh.
Pro tip: Hostels often have laundry facilities that will have your washing done in no time- just ask at the reception.
5. Don’t Be Inconsiderate of Shared Spaces
The common areas in hostels are designed for everyone to enjoy. Respect the vibe and the people around you.
What to Avoid:
- Hogging the couch or communal tables for hours without reason.
- Being loud in areas where people seem to be working.
- Leaving your dishes unwashed in the kitchen.
Pro tip: Clean up after yourself—whether it’s in the lounge, kitchen, or dining area. Also important to note that if someone’s got their curtain closed or earphones in, it’s likely they don’t want to be disturbed
6. Don’t Get Too Comfortable in Dorms
Yes, hostels are laid-back, but some behaviour won’t make you many friends. Being overly affectionate with your partner in a shared dorm is a big no-no. Trust me, nobody wants to hear, see or feel that (bunk beds!)
Pro tip: Consider booking a private room
7. Don’t Forget to Respect the Rules
Every hostel has its own set of rules, from quiet hours to check-out times. Respecting these isn’t just about being polite—it’s about keeping the hostel running smoothly for everyone.
What to Avoid:
- Ignoring quiet hours.
- Bringing outsiders into the dorm without permission- some hostels really enforce this rule simply for the safety of everyone staying there
- Being rude to staff- always be kind and respectful to the staff working in hostels
Pro tip: Read the hostel’s rules when you check in. They’re usually straightforward, and following them will save you from awkward situations (and extra fees!)
8. Don’t Skimp on Locking Up Your Belongings
While most people in hostels are trustworthy, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. Leaving your valuables out in the open is risky and it can get very expensive if anything needs replacing.
What to Avoid:
- Leaving your passport, money, or electronics unsecured.
- Using someone else’s locker without asking.
Pro tip: Bring a sturdy padlock and use the lockers provided.
10. Don’t Forget to Be Kind
Above all, the most important rule is to treat your fellow travellers and hostel staff with kindness and respect. A little patience and empathy go a long way in a shared living environment.
What to Avoid:
- Being rude to staff—they’re there to help, not to be your personal concierge.
- Ignoring or dismissing people.
Pro tip: Smile, chat, and be open to making new friends. It’s the heart of the hostel experience!
Final Thoughts: Keep It Cool, and Everyone Wins
Hostels are amazing places filled with adventure, stories, and the chance to meet incredible people. Following these simple tips will make your stay enjoyable—not just for you, but for everyone else too.
So, whether you’re heading to your first hostel or your fiftieth, remember: be mindful, stay considerate, and don’t forget to have fun!
Planning on staying in hostels? Read about how to make friends here
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