11 Questions about hostels that you've been too embarrassed to ask

From sex and bed bugs, to age limits and room types, we have got the answers to all the questions you have about hostels, but were too embarrassed to ask!

Hostels have had quite a varied reputation over the years, and we're sure that you have heard a few horror stories about hostels in your time. But have no fear! There are many myths surrounding hostel life that are simply not true, and the world of hostels has recently experienced a revolution: think private rooms, luxury services, pools, saunas, free breakfast and more!

So save yourself the embarrassment and let us do the talking. We've found out the answers to all the questions you have about hostels, but were too afraid to ask!

Q: Do I have to share a room?

A: No!

Most hostels now have private rooms, so if you value your privacy you can still find budget accommodation without sleeping next to strangers! Private rooms may also come with a shared or ensuite bathroom, depending on how much you want to spend. Below is a private room in the Zenmotel Mimo (Miami) just to give you an idea!

Q: Are hostels like the Movie?

A: No way!

So, we’ve already gone pretty in depth to this topic before, but we can assure you that hostels are NOT like the movie. Thank god for that.

Q: Am I too old/young to stay in a hostel?

A: Probably not!

We love to see travellers adopting the backpacking lifestyle right up into their later years and younger travellers on their first adventures! And many hostels think the same! In private rooms, you can almost guarantee that there are no upper age limits, but occasionally dorm rooms have an upper dorm limit of 35/40 years. Dorms are usually for over 18's only, and the same can be said for private rooms. Just make sure to double check before you book, so you don’t run into any problems, and then just enjoy the friendly atmosphere... just like Planet Hostel's travellers are doing!

Q: Can I have sex in a hostel?

A: Yes! Of course, you can!

Of course, if you’re in a private room, then go for it! In dorms, it can be a bit more complicated. No-one wants to hear that after a long day of exploring, but we do have some suggestions for you. The bathroom, the rooftop terrace or even the garden if you want :)

Q: Will I wake up with someone else in my bed?

A: God, let’s hope not!

Hostels usually have set check-in times and a set ‘curfew’ time, so you won’t be bothered by other travellers arriving late at night. And they definitely shouldn’t be getting in your bed! Luckily, many hostels now, like the St Christopher's Inn Gare du Nord in the beautiful Paris, provide curtains that wrap around the beds in dorm rooms, so even if you do have some latecomers to your dorm, you shouldn’t be disturbed.

Q: Do I have to bring my own towels, linen or a sleeping bag?

A: Usually no!

Most hostels provide fresh linen for your beds. You often have to bring a towel or you can rent one from the hostel for a low cost. We find that occasionally you need to bring your own sleeping bag, but this is mainly true for hostels on hiking routes or mountainous areas where you rent camping tents. Otherwise, you can always check with the property once you book! Below is the Bangkok Bed and Bike Hostel that provides linen, towels and thick 10-inch mattresses for its guests in multi beds doorms as stylish as ever!

Q: Oh, and will there be bed bugs?!

A: No - there really shouldn't be.

This is one of the most famous myths about hostels, and it is very rarely true. Hostels have strict cleaning policies and avoid this happening at all costs. Even if there were, the hostel would have to completely replace all mattresses - something that they work to avoid at all costs!

Q: Do I have to be a party animal to stay in hostels?

A: Absolutely not.

There are some party hostels where dancing the night away is encouraged, but this is not the only option for budget travellers! Plenty of hostels focus on providing guests with a relaxed, calm environment, offering yoga and meditation classes. And with a curfew and lockout time, you won’t be woken up by others drunkenly staggering home in the small hours of the night! However, we're pretty sure you couldn't be able to resist a quick dive in Brick Hostel's amazing swimming pool... c'mon, this pool party is to die for!

Q: Do I have to share a room with members of the opposite sex?

A: No, you don’t have to.

Many hostels now offer all-male and all-female dorms, giving you the extra feeling of security. Some hostels have now even taken this to the next level, providing all-female/male floors, so you are sure to meet only members of the same sex, including in the bathrooms. Lub d Bangkok hostel surely knows how to pamper its female guests...

Q: Can I bring my pet with me?

A: Sometimes!

This depends from hostel to hostel, but there are quite a few allow you to bring a pet along too, as long as you book a private room! To check out some hostels that do accept animals, and some cat-themed hostels, check out our article on the Perfect Hostels for Cat-Lovers! Spoiler: Cats Party Hostel in Madrid is definetly the winner to our eyes!

Q: How do I know which hostel is the best?!

A: By considering a few important factors.

Picking which hostel to stay in is a pretty fun, (if occasionally overwhelming) experience! But where to choose? If you are visiting a big city such as London, Paris or Rome, then the choice on offer can be pretty daunting. Well, we have already told you how to pick a hostel in 10 steps, but to summarise you want to look at location, room type, activities on offer and facilities the hostel provides. Remember, some hostels are for party animals, others have a more relaxed vibe, so bear this in mind when booking!

Q: Can I work in the hostel in exchange for a bed, instead of paying?

A: You can, but don't rely on this system.

This is a becoming a really popular way for travellers to explore the world while spending as little money as they can. While this is possible, of course, it's not guaranteed in any way. It also means that you can’t plan your trip in advance, and end up paying extra high last-minute rates because you can’t find work. In the end, hostels are the cheapest option out there, so we would really recommend booking first, even if it is for part of your trip.

Need a little more convincing? Check out our article on 28 pictures that will convince you to choose a hostel over a hotel!

Cover picture: @Jetset Times