What is a hostel? The ultimate guide to budget travel and accommodation

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

When you think of travelling, you probably imagine expensive hotels or perhaps cosy holiday apartments. But what if we told you there was a cheaper and often more adventurous option? Welcome to the world of hostels!

Whether you're an experienced backpacker or a first-time traveller, hostels are a fantastic way to see the world without breaking the bank.

What is a hostel?

A hostel is a type of accommodation designed primarily for travellers on a budget. But don't worry! The days of sleeping in a dormitory with 20 or more people are long gone. Most hostels have cosy rooms with a maximum of 6 beds per room and modern facilities.

The main difference from a hotel? Hostels often offer shared rooms rather than private rooms. The atmosphere is usually informal, social and designed to bring travellers from all over the world together. Best of all, no two hostels are the same!

Who stays in hostels?

Hostels are for everyone! Although some, such as those in Luxembourg, still have the word 'youth' in their name, is there is no age limit, so you will find guests of all types and ages. As well as the classic young backpackers, you will find many families, schoolchildren, students, active travellers such as hikers, mountain bikers and cyclists, and music and sports groups.

Why are hostels great for budget travellers?

1. Cost savings: hostels are usually much cheaper than hotel rooms. In hostels you pay for a bed, not a room.
2. Community: hostels are a great place to meet new people - perfect if you are travelling alone.
3. Central location: many hostels are located near tourist attractions or in trendy areas.
4. Extra facilities: from delicious food to organised tours or exciting infrastructure, hostels often offer affordable extras. For example, Echternach hostel has a climbing wall, Beaufort has a bowling alley and Lultzhausen is popular for summer water sports.

Tips for your first stay in a hostel

• Book early, especially in popular cities or during high season. Search for international hostels here: www.hihostels.com. If you want to book in Luxembourg, book directly via the website: www.youthhostels.lu  
• Pack smart: A padlock, ear plugs, towels and flip-flops for the showers are a must. You don't need a sleeping bag. All hostels provide bed linen for hygiene reasons. However, in many hostels you will need to make your own bed.
• Be respectful: Whether it's resting time or sharing a room, it's important to be respectful.
• More questions about Luxembourg's hostels? Check out the FAQs.

Are hostels safe?

Sure it is! Hostels are as safe as any other type of accommodation. The big advantage is that you share a room with other people, so there's always someone nearby. However, the staff are sometimes available 24 hours a day (especially in big cities). Still, it's better to be safe than sorry! Never leave your belongings unattended and it is best to lock them in a locker, which is available in all hostels.

We would like to conclude this article with the words of travel blogger @glographics:

‘With a hostel, you get to pay half the price for twice the fun.’

Many hostels, like Luxembourg's city hostel, are located near tourist attractions or in trendy areas.

Many hostels, as the Echternach hostel, are located in beautiful areas.

Modern shared rooms for everyone, like at our Esch-sur-Alzette hostel.

Modern shared rooms for everyone, like at our hostel in Remerschen.

In Remerschen you can even enjoy the views on the balcony.

Modern shared rooms for everyone, like at our capital's hostel.

Many hostels have accessible rooms.

Families get their private rooms.

Delicious food are available in our Melting Pot restaurants.

Each hostel restaurant has its own charm.

Breakfast is always included in the price in Luxembourg's hostels.

Modern meeting facilities in lots of our hostels.

Cosy common rooms are available to our guests.

Never a dull moment at our hostels.

Bowling alley in Beaufort.

Among the guests are active tourists, such as cyclists.

Climbing wall in Echternach.