Hostels can be a great way to travel on a budget and meet other travelers. However, as a woman travelling alone, it is important to remain vigilant and always consider your safety. Here are 7 tips for staying safe in your hostel.
1. Check Reviews– Before booking your hostel, do an internet search to get some intel. Check the reviews online and pay the most attention to the negative reviews. Look for mentions of staff presence, bed bugs, security and surveillance cameras etc.
2. Choose Female only Dorms– Although women commit crimes, many solo female travelers (myself included) feel safer staying in female only dorms. Hostel websites typically indicate whether they have single gender and mixed gender (unisex) dorms available. You can also consider booking a private room where available for a bit more money.
3. Band Together with Other Travelers– If there are other solo female travelers staying at the hostel, consider asking them to hang out and explore the area together. Having someone to look out for you both inside the dorms and out on the town can be a big source of comfort. Plus, you may even make a friend to continue your trip with!
4. Don’t Cheap Out– Listen, I get it, the temptation to stay at a cheaper hostel to save money for souvenirs and experiences, or even save enough to extend your trip can be almost irresistible. However, the risk of staying at a sketchy hostel isn’t worth the few bucks.
5. Pick a Hostel with a Locker – Many hostels have lockers where you can place your items. These lockers range in size depending on the hostel. Some are rather small and are meant for things like laptops, your passport etc. Others can fit your whole pack inside! Bring a lock, preferably a smaller, skinnier lock (some lockers don’t work well with the circular wide locks)!
6. Know your Limits– It may seem obvious, but when you are at the height of your trip, and having a blast with the new friends you’ve just met, it’s easy to get caught up in the good times. Watch your drink and don’t accept anything from anyone (remember, you just met these people!), try to limit your alcohol consumption, and if it is late spend the money to call a cab if you are in an unsafe area.
7. Trust your Gut– Let your intuition guide you out of unsafe situations. If your gut is telling you that something is off, leave!! Even if you have already paid for the hostel and can’t get your money back, don’t stay somewhere that gives you a sense of foreboding.
In conclusion, while hostels can provide an affordable way to experience new places, prioritizing your safety as a solo female traveler is essential. Ultimately, a little caution and a bit of research goes a long way in ensuring your journey is both safe and enjoyable. Happy travels!
Let me know in the comments how your hostel experiences have been!