Introduction to the Hostelworld App: Book Hostels and Meet Travellers
Introduction
Planning a trip on a budget and want to stay somewhere sociable? The Hostelworld app has been a trusted companion for backpackers and solo travellers for over 25 years. It is the world’s leading hostel finder, helping you search and book from more than 21,000 hostels in 187 countries. Beyond simple bookings, the app is designed to help you meet people and make your travel experience more social. This introduction to the Hostelworld app covers everything you need to get started, from finding a bed to using the built-in chat features.
What is Hostelworld?
Hostelworld is an online travel agent (OTA) that focuses specifically on the hostelling category. It provides a platform for hostel owners to list their inventory with flexible and non-refundable rate plans, and for travellers like you to book those hostels with confidence. The platform has built up a loyal customer base over more than 22 years, with over 13.7 million reviews and 2.5 million unique customers generating €546 million in gross merchandise value in 2019. Hostelworld properties are available in over 170 countries, making it a genuinely global tool for independent travellers.
The app is free to download from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. It has received consistently high ratings – 4.8 stars from 58,000 ratings on iOS and the same score from 78,000 reviews on Android. It is designed for budget-conscious travellers who want affordable accommodation almost everywhere, along with a built-in community of like-minded people.
How Does the Hostelworld App Work?
Using the app is straightforward. You search for a destination, choose your dates, and browse a huge selection of hostels, each with reviews, photos, and details about facilities. Once you book, the social features of the app open up, helping you connect with other travellers.
Searching and Booking Hostels
The core function of the app is finding and booking hostel accommodation. You can search by city, date, and number of guests. Each listing shows the property’s location, amenities, dormitory and private room options, and a rating based on verified guest reviews. The app also includes city guides, sightseeing information, and backpacking tips to help you plan your trip. Booking is done directly through the platform, with online confirmed reservations so you know your bed is secure. The interface is clean and fast, making it easy to compare prices and find the best option for your budget.
Social Features: Chat, See Who’s Going, and Linkups
One of the standout aspects of the Hostelworld app is how it helps you meet people. The app includes several features designed to turn a solo trip into a social adventure.
- Chat: A messaging system that lets you talk to other travellers who are staying in the same hostel or city. You can ask questions, arrange to meet up, or simply get to know people before you arrive.
- See Who’s Going: When you book a hostel, you can see profiles of other travellers who are also booked to stay there. This gives you a sense of who you might meet and helps break the ice.
- Linkups: A feature that allows you to create or join events and activities with other travellers. Whether it’s a group dinner, a walking tour, or a night out, Linkups makes it easy to find company.
These social features have been well received by users. Many travellers report that the chat feature works great for coordinating meetups and making friends on the road. The app also displays how many travellers are currently in the chat and how many social members are active, giving you a real-time sense of the community.
The Solo System: Designed for Solo Travellers
In April 2022, Hostelworld launched a new way to travel called the Solo System. This feature is specifically designed for solo travellers who want to go from solo to social. By updating the Hostelworld app, you can access a set of tools that help you connect with others before and during your trip. The Solo System builds on the existing chat and Linkups features, creating a more structured experience for those travelling alone. It encourages you to share your travel plans, see who else is heading to the same destinations, and arrange to meet up. For anyone nervous about travelling solo, this system removes much of the uncertainty about meeting people.
Tips for First-Time Users of the Hostelworld App
If you have never used Hostelworld before, here are a few practical tips to help you get the most out of the app.
- Create a complete profile. Add a photo and a short description of yourself. This helps other travellers know who they are chatting with and makes it easier to start conversations.
- Use the chat feature before you arrive. Don’t wait until you check in. Start chatting with people booked at the same hostel a few days before your trip. You might arrive already knowing some faces.
- Check the “See Who’s Going” list. This gives you a preview of the social atmosphere at each hostel. If you want a lively, sociable stay, look for hostels with many booked travellers.
- Read reviews carefully. Reviews on Hostelworld cover not just cleanliness and location but also atmosphere and social vibe. Use them to pick a hostel that matches your expectations.
- Explore the city guides. The app includes local information and sightseeing suggestions, which can help you plan your days and find things to do with new friends.
Is the Hostelworld App Right for You?
Hostelworld is ideal for budget travellers, backpackers, and solo adventurers who value affordable accommodation and a social atmosphere. If you prefer hotels or private rooms with total independence, you might find the communal nature of hostels less appealing. However, the app also lists many hostels with private rooms, so you can still benefit from the social features while having your own space. The platform is particularly strong for solo travellers because of its built-in community tools, which help combat the loneliness that sometimes comes with independent travel. With over 21,000 hostels across 187 countries, it covers destinations from major European cities to off-the-beaten-path locations in Asia, Latin America, and beyond.
Downloading and Getting Started
The Hostelworld app is available for free on iOS via the Apple App Store and on Android via Google Play. Simply search for “Hostelworld: Hostel Travel App” and download it. Once installed, you can browse hostels without creating an account, but to book and use the social features you will need to register. The app is available in English and eight other languages, and it is rated for ages 4 and above, so it is suitable for travellers of all ages. In-app purchases are available for extras such as booking fees or optional upgrades, but the core booking and social functions are included in the free download.
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Disclaimer
Stafford Affiliates Travel provides this guide for informational purposes and is not a travel agency. The information contained in this guide is for general guidance only. While we do our best to ensure the information is up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind about its completeness or accuracy.
Cruise line policies, itineraries, and loyalty programs are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend that you verify all details directly with your cruise line or a certified travel agent before making any bookings or financial commitments.
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