5 ways a hostel can help you save money on your travels

Hostels can help you with most aspects of money-saving while you’re traipsing the globe. If you’re planning a budget getaway, a long-term stint away from home or a bucket-list quest, read on to find out how HI can help make your money go further while on the road.

Free breakfast

Start your day the right way with Oslo Central hostel in Norway

From self-service toast and cereal stations to pancakes, eggs and bacon, many hostels put on a delicious spread in the mornings. While you’re making your way around the world, you’ll find that each country has its own breakfast customs and it’s a great opportunity to find out which foods are served first-thing in the morning in different places. Take advantage of this and fill up before a day of sightseeing.

Dinner events

Some hostels offer free pasta nights or BBQ evenings – aside from the chance to eat some free grub, this can be a great opportunity to converse with other travellers over a plate of lasagne. Feeling generous with your time? Offer to help the staff cook dinner or even suggest making one of your local dishes to introduce fellow travellers to your culture.

Do it yourself

Hostel kitchens are equipped with everything you need to make a quick, tasty and cheap meal. Swap the local restaurant for the local supermarket once in a while and your wallet will thank you for it. Some easy hostel meals are cheese or beans on toast, chicken salad, pasta in tomato sauce or veggie stir fry.

Share a room

Although most hostels offer private rooms, sharing a dorm can really cut down on costs and it’s something everyone should experience at least once. Forget the horror stories, dorm-life is a fun, social way to temporarily live and, for solo travellers especially, a chance to chat to other people who will likely be in the same situation as you.

Buddy up

Travelling is cheaper with friends. If you’re flying solo, hostels are the perfect place to meet up and build lasting friendships with a whole bunch of people from around the world. Planning to check out that cool bar on the other side of town on Friday night? Share a taxi. Preparing a meal in the kitchen? Split the costs. Who knows, you might even end up continuing your travels with a new bud in tow.

Have you got any other money-saving tips for travellers? Let us know in the comments box below!

If you’re on a budget, you may be interested in the 3 best budget-shopping destinations.