10 Essentials Every Backpacker Needs for Hostel Life
The ultimate hostel packing list for solo travelers, digital nomads and first time backpackers.
Introduction
Packing for your first backpacking trip? Hostels and budget travellers go hand in hand. After staying in more than 30 hostels in the past few years, these are the items I would never go without! These 10 essentials will make hostel life so much easier and having them will help you feel more prepared for your adventure.
1. Microfiber Towel
Most hostels don’t provide towels and if they do it’s usually pretty grim. I’ve used my microfiber towel for every backpacking trip and swear by it! It’s super-lightweight and packs quite small so it is perfect for backpackers. It can also double as a curtain on your hostel bed for a bit of added privacy. This is the one I use and I also have a second one for the beach.
2. Padlock
Most hostels provide lockers but not locks. So you need to have one with you. I like to have two because sometimes hostels provide a locker and a smaller security box for valuables. It’s also just good to have two in case you lose one (I’m somehow down to one after a year of travelling). I also recommend one with an adjustable shackle like this one, because I’ve stayed in hostels that my bigger lock didn’t fit on.
3. Earplugs & Eye mask
Probably the most essential items on this list! Necessary for sleeping through the night to tune out late-night arrivals, snorers and early risers in the dorm room. People also turn the light on and chat at all hours so please save yourself the headache and get these items. I’ve tried a lot of earplugs but my favourite are the wax ones they do the best at blocking out noise. I feel like foam ones just aren’t effective at all.
4. Flip-Flops (Shower Shoes)
A non-negotiable for shared bathrooms. Be sure to have a pair of shower shoes to stay hygienic and comfortable. Any cheap pair of flip-flops will do!
5. Portable Charger/Power Bank
A good quality power bank is needed for every trip but especially if you’re in a hostel. I’ve stayed in places where my designated outlet didn’t work or I just didn’t have one. So be sure to avoid the panic of having a dead device and bring a portable charger.
6. Travel Adapter
If you are travelling internationally be sure to have a universal adapter. This is the one I use and it’s been such a lifesaver in all of the countries I’ve been to.
7. Packing Cubes
A game changer for backpacking! They will make your backpack so much easier to pack and much more organized. It’s great in the hostel because you won’t have to rummage in your bag searching because you’ll know exactly where everything is. I like these ones by MEC and Eagle Creek because they are good quality and mine are in great shape after a year of stuffing my stuff into them!
8. Hanging Toiletry Bag
Great for keeping all of your toiletries organized and for having all of your shower items in one place. The best part is you can hang it up in the bathroom so all your products don’t go on the hostel bathroom floor (which is questionable at times).
9. Reusable Water Bottle
Lots of hostels provide drinking water so it’s great to have your own bottle to save money and plastic! Just be sure to check if the tap water is safe to drink wherever you are.
10. Tote Bag
A great multi-purpose bag, can be used for laundry, groceries or just going out. It also packs up small so it won’t take up much room in your backpack.
Conclusion
These are my 10 must-haves I swear by for every backpacking trip. These items have saved me from some pretty irritating situations (hello, snoring bunkmates and nasty showers). If it’s your first time in a hostel just know that packing smart and being prepared will make all the difference. If you have any hostel essentials you can’t live without I’d love to hear them in the comments. And if you found this helpful I also have a Complete Packing Guide for Female Backpackers you may be interested in. Happy Packing!
