When traveling, choosing the right hostel can make or break your trip. While hostels are often affordable and social, safety is a major concern for many travelers. Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, knowing how to evaluate the safety of a hostel is essential. In this guide, we will cover how to research hostels, spot safety features, assess the location, check hostel policies, and take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety while staying at a hostel.
Researching the Hostel
The first step in determining whether a hostel is safe is to conduct thorough research. Thanks to the internet, it’s easier than ever to read other travelers’ experiences and get a sense of what a particular hostel offers.
Read Online Reviews
Platforms like Hostelworld, TripAdvisor, and Booking.com are great places to start. These websites allow you to access detailed reviews from previous guests, giving you insight into the hostel’s safety standards. Pay attention to comments regarding safety, as this can reveal whether past guests felt secure during their stay. Look for any specific mentions of incidents or concerns related to theft, crime, or issues with security measures.
Check Overall Ratings and Safety Certifications
Beyond reading reviews, check the hostel’s overall rating. While ratings aren’t always a direct reflection of safety, they can indicate how well the hostel is managed. In some cases, hostels may also display safety-related certifications. These certifications ensure that the hostel has met certain safety and hygiene standards, which can help you feel more confident in your choice. Look for hostels that are accredited by trusted organizations in the hostel industry.
Safety Features to Look For
Once you’ve shortlisted a few hostels, it’s important to check what safety features they offer to protect guests and their belongings.
Lockable Storage or Lockers for Personal Belongings
A hostel should provide lockable storage or lockers for personal belongings, especially for valuables like passports, electronics, and money. If lockers are provided, check that they are in good condition and have secure locking mechanisms. It’s also a good idea to bring your own lock for added security.
Secure Entry Systems
A hostel should have a secure entry system, like keycards or codes, to ensure that only guests can enter. The use of a 24/7 front desk or reception staff is another key factor. When staff members are present around the clock, it gives an additional layer of security and ensures that the hostel is monitored at all times.
Surveillance Cameras
Look for hostels that have surveillance cameras in common areas, such as the lobby, kitchen, and lounges. Cameras are a clear indication that the hostel is actively monitoring its premises and taking the necessary steps to ensure guests’ safety. However, ensure that cameras are placed in public spaces and not in private rooms or bathrooms.
Well-Lit Common Areas and Hallways
A well-lit hostel is crucial to ensuring the safety of guests. Check if common areas, hallways, and stairwells are adequately lit, particularly in the evenings. Poor lighting can make it easier for anyone with ill intentions to operate unnoticed.
Location Considerations
The safety of the hostel’s location is equally as important as its internal features. A good hostel might still be risky if it’s situated in an unsafe neighborhood.
Assess the Neighborhood
Research the neighborhood surrounding the hostel. Is it a central, busy area or more remote and isolated? Proximity to public transportation, such as bus or train stations, is a positive sign, as it allows easy access to other areas and services. Avoid hostels that are located in areas with a reputation for crime or where there is little foot traffic at night.
Use Maps and Reviews to Assess the Safety
Use Google Maps and street view to get a sense of the hostel’s surroundings. Look for nearby amenities like cafes, shops, or restaurants, which are often signs of a well-populated area. You can also check neighborhood safety forums and local police department websites for crime statistics.
Hostel Policies and Staff
Hostels should have clear and comprehensive policies, especially related to guest behavior, security, and curfew.
Clear Policies on Guest Behavior and Curfews
Check the hostel’s policies regarding behavior and curfews. Many hostels enforce quiet hours or curfews to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for guests. It’s a good idea to stay in a hostel with a curfew, as it prevents anyone from entering the building after a certain time, reducing the likelihood of unwanted disruptions or incidents. Clear policies also signal that the hostel takes guest safety seriously.
Approachable and Attentive Staff
The staff plays a key role in maintaining safety in a hostel. Before booking, reach out to the hostel or check reviews to learn about the staff’s behavior. Are they approachable, friendly, and attentive to guests’ needs? Friendly, professional staff members will take your safety seriously and respond promptly to any concerns or incidents.
Room Layout and Privacy
When it comes to dormitories, the layout of the room and the level of privacy can significantly affect your comfort and safety.
Choose Dorm Layouts with Fewer Beds
If safety is a priority, opt for dorms with fewer beds. Smaller dorms typically feel safer and more intimate compared to larger ones. Dorms with fewer guests are also easier to monitor, reducing the risk of theft or discomfort. For extra privacy, consider choosing rooms with privacy curtains around each bed.
Private Rooms and Mixed-Gender Dorms
If you’re not comfortable with mixed-gender dorms, you may want to book a female-only or male-only dorm. Some hostels also offer private rooms, which may provide greater peace of mind. If mixed-gender dorms are your only option, make sure the hostel has strong security and clear boundaries for guest behavior.
Emergency Preparedness
Emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s essential that your hostel is prepared for such situations.
Fire Exits and Smoke Detectors
A safe hostel will have visible fire exits and working smoke detectors throughout the building. Fire safety should be a priority for every establishment, and a hostel that doesn’t comply with fire safety regulations should be avoided.
Emergency Procedures
Check if the hostel has clear emergency procedures, such as evacuation routes or emergency contacts. Staff should be able to direct you on what to do in case of a fire, earthquake, or other emergency. Ensure that the hostel has a contactable manager or emergency response team in case of any urgent issues.
Tips for Personal Safety
While hostels may have safety measures in place, your personal safety is also important. Here are a few tips to protect yourself during your stay:
Carry a Small Padlock for Lockers
Even if the hostel provides lockers, carrying your own small padlock can offer extra peace of mind. This ensures that your belongings are secured, particularly when the hostel provides shared or communal storage.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
When in the common areas, try not to keep valuables like cash, phones, or jewelry in plain sight. Use a money belt, hidden pouch, or secure compartment to store important items. Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in busy areas or during check-in/check-out times.
Trust Your Instincts and Report Suspicious Behavior
If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts. Report any suspicious behavior to the hostel staff or local authorities. The sooner you address any issues, the safer you’ll be.
Red Flags to Avoid
While there are many hostels that provide excellent safety features, there are certain red flags you should be aware of.
Poor Cleanliness
A hostel with poor cleanliness is a major warning sign. A lack of cleanliness may indicate that the management doesn’t take safety and hygiene seriously. Dirty bathrooms, unkempt rooms, or food waste in common areas are all signs of a hostel that may not prioritize safety.
Broken Security Features
If the hostel has broken locks, malfunctioning security systems, or outdated technology, it’s a big red flag. If security features aren’t functioning properly, it’s not a good idea to stay there.
Overly Negative Reviews About Safety
Pay attention to negative reviews that specifically mention safety concerns. If multiple guests have complained about incidents or lack of security, it’s best to look for a different hostel.
Resources for Verification
To verify a hostel’s safety measures, use trusted platforms like Hostelworld, TripAdvisor, or Booking.com. You can also check official associations like the International Youth Hostel Federation (IYHF) or the Hostelling International network. These organizations set standards for hostel safety and may provide additional peace of mind.
If you’re still unsure, reach out to the hostel directly to clarify its safety policies, available security features, and emergency preparedness plans.
Conclusion
Choosing a safe hostel is crucial for having a positive and worry-free travel experience. By researching the hostel thoroughly, looking for key safety features, assessing the location, and considering personal safety precautions, you can ensure that your stay will be as safe as it is enjoyable. Always trust your instincts and take action if anything feels off during your stay. With these tips in mind, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions and enjoy your travels with peace of mind.
