If you want to travel long term 3 – 6 months and need to score really cheap hostels even free hostels in some then this post is meant for you. One of the biggest game-changers for budget travel? Hostels. So many travelers make the mistake by automatically going online searching for hotels or AirBnB without thinking of hostels.
My first time in hostels was in Berlin and Prague in 2008 – I remember having a blast. A couple of days in, I suddenly got it. The communal space to hang out, the rooftop hangouts, the spontaneous conversations with people from all over the world. This was travel!
Below you’re about to learn some tips in finding cheap even free hostels when you want to extend your stay in a particular country.
Why Hostels Are the Budget Traveler’s Best Friend:
Short answer: Affordable, Social, and Perfect for Long-Term Travel
First and foremost: they’re cheap. In many countries, you can snag a dorm bed for the price of a Starbucks latte back home. But more than that, hostels offer something money can’t always buy: community.
For solo travelers, digital nomads, or backpackers, hostels are a built-in network of potential friends. You walk in as a stranger and leave with new connections, travel buddies, or even lifelong friends.
If you’re over 30 there’s nothing wrong with staying at a hostel…plenty 40 to 50 somethings do….I did and I regret nothing.
I’ve stayed in several hostels in Europe and Asia and the most fun I had where in Thailand. They were the Lub D in Phuket and the Slumber Party Hostel in Karabi. I remember very fondly the high energy and atmosphere were simply the best.
In Thailand, you can score a bed (dorm style) for as low as $5 a night….it’s also a great way to meet fellow travelers.
Different Types of Hostels for Different Vibes
Not all hostels are created equal. Depending on your personality or current travel mood, you can choose from:
- Budget Hostels: Bare bones but affordable. Clean, safe, and wallet-friendly.
- Party Hostels: Where sleep goes to die. Great for extroverts who love a pub crawl. Many have a hard cut-off age of 35.
- Youth Hostels: Often affiliated with international networks. Clean and usually age-restricted.
- Boutique Hostels: Stylish, often with a theme or artistic vibe.
- Eco Hostels: Want to lessen your carbon footprint, enjoy nature and still get that social connection? Then this may fit your vibe.
- Luxury Hostels: Yes, these exist. Think private rooms, rooftop bars, and artisanal breakfasts.…basically a step above a boutique hostel.
What makes hostels so great?
As I stated before, some of the most fun I’ve had been in fact at hostels….more specifically – party hostels! The vast majority of these hostels cater to the 18 – 35 year old traveler with alcohol-fueled events like:
- Pub crawls…always a great time.
- Flip cup, beer pong and other drinking games.
- Booze cruises…always fun!
- Cooking classes…something low-key but fun.
It is also common for hostels to run their own tours, whether that be a 2-hour free walking tour or a full-day excursion at a slightly lower price than if you were to book it on your own.
At Slumber Party in Krabi, I joined a full-day tour of the Tiger Cave Temple, Emerald Pool, and Hot Springs – organized by the hostel staff and packed with fellow backpackers. It was one of the most memorable days of my entire trip.
At this point you see the HUGE upside with hostels; the cheap accommodation plus the emphasis on socializing and meeting new people makes a great choice for backpackers and solo travelers who are looking to save money and meet really cool people.
In my view and experience hostels can be a great alternative to hotels or AirBnB’s when traveling.
Make sure you read my post Staying In A Hostel | What You Need To Know and get all the important information you need before staying in any hostel.
How to stay at a hostel for free:
Alright, now let’s get into the good stuff. Do you want to travel long-term and not pay for accommodation?
🔥 Here’s the secret: Volunteer at the hostel.
Don’t think this is some secret travel hack…it’s fairly common. Anywhere with a robust hostel scene where you can offer your services like reception assistance, cleaning, or helping with activities in exchange for free accommodation. This has to be the easiest way you can extend your travels and not have to pay for a place to stay.
I first came along this travel hack back in 2017 when I ran into a Canadian living and working at a hostel in Krabi. He organized the drinking events and pub crawls. I asked him what made him stay in Thailand, he just laughed and said, “Bro I get paid to party.”
Turns out, his “payment” was free lodging and free beer. The hostel got a charismatic pub crawl leader; he got to live in Thailand practically for free.
I remember thinking, Why didn’t anyone tell me this sooner?
Yes, working at a hostel is work but you get to see the world, meet new people, party with those same people and gain real-life work experience.
If you really want to work at a hostel, especially the party hostels you must be friendly, outgoing and sociable.
What kind of hostel work can I get?
- Reception work – checking guests in and out.
- Organizing tours.
- Leading pub crawls, booze cruises, and organizing events i.e. drinking games or pool parties.
- Bartending – some hostels have on-site bars so if you’re outgoing and can mix a drink, you’re in!
- Room cleaning – making the beds and laundering the dirty sheets.
- Cleaning – mopping floors, removing trash making sure the hostel is clean.
- Helping to prepare breakfast buffets or lunches.
Will you get paid for this work?
In most cases, no. The deal is usually work-for-accommodation. Some hostels offer a small commission if you sell tours or events, but don’t count on it.
Also, many hostels require a minimum commitment – at least two weeks to three months. They invest time in training you and want people who stick around.
Is it worth it?
That depends on your travel goals. If you’re trying to save money, meet people, and stay in one place for a bit, it’s an incredible opportunity.
But make no mistake: it’s work. In a busy party hostel, you might be pulling 6–8 hour shifts. You’ll clean up after drunk strangers and answer the same five questions a dozen times a day.
Still, if you’re outgoing and adaptable, it can be the time of your life.
How to travel for free while volunteering at a hostel?
Here’s where you have to be smart. Working for accommodation covers your stay – but what about food, transport, and emergencies?
Plan Ahead Before Your Trip:
- Save up enough to cover your return flight and 2–3 months of expenses for food and entertainment.
- Travel light – don’t bring a huge luggage bag, besides hostels often offer staff lockers or storage.
- Consider travel insurance (trust me on this one).
You can stretch your money incredibly far in places like Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, or parts of Latin America. But having a financial cushion is crucial.
Perks of volunteering at a hostel
Here’s what you get in return for your time and energy:
- Free accommodation
- Built-in social life
- Real-world hospitality experience
- Opportunities to learn about the local culture
- Time to work on creative projects (hello digital nomads!)
Volunteering also gives your travel structure. If you’re on the road for months at a time, it’s grounding to have responsibilities – even if it’s just running a pancake breakfast on Sundays.
So, how do I get to work at a Hostel?
There are two main ways to land a hostel gig:
1. Walk in and ask: This is the old-school backpacker method. You arrive, love the vibe, and ask the manager if they need help. Sometimes they say yes on the spot. Other times they’ll take your info for the future.
The upside: You get to feel out the vibe before committing.
The obvious downside…this may not always work as they’re already at full staff.
Don’t worry about ‘work experience’ they will offer on-the-job training.
2. Use Online Platforms: Several websites help travelers connect with hostels offering work exchanges…these include:
Here is where work exchange programs will be your lifeline. Luckily, there are two great websites that connect travelers with hostels looking for workers:
- Worldpackers.com – $49.00 for annual subscription
- Workaway.info – $ 59 per year
- HelpStay.com – €42.99 annual membership
- Hosteljobs.net – free use use and browse
You can filter by location, length of stay, and type of work. Communication happens in advance, so you can lock down a gig before you even book your flight.
Worldpackers.com seems to be the most popular platform at the moment to find hostel work.
You can use HostelWorld.com to contact hostels directly and ask if they’re looking for volunteers.
Hot Tip: Make sure your profile includes a smiling photo, references if you have them, and a short bio that shows you’re reliable and fun to work with.
How Long Can I Stay?
Make sure to stay only as long as you’re allowed to in that country with a tourist visa. You may need to visit the country’s immigration office to extend your stay. If you get caught working (even as a volunteer) you can get in trouble and get deported. On that note never overstay your visit!
Final Thoughts: Are You Ready to Travel the World on a Budget?
If you want to explore the world without blowing your life savings, hostels are the answer. Whether you’re a backpacker looking to stretch your trip from weeks to months or a digital nomad seeking a base with good Wi-Fi and better company, hostels provide an unbeatable blend of affordability and connection.
And if you’re willing to put in a little work? You might just live the dream: traveling the world for free.
So, pack your bag, stash some savings, and don’t be afraid to scrub a toilet or lead a drunken karaoke night. It’s all part of the ride.
The world is waiting and life is short….make the most of it!
🧭 Bonus Tips and Resources:
If you want to succeed with this plan then do yourself a favor and follow these simple tips:
✔️ Be Social & Outgoing – hostels need staff who will engage with guests.
✔️ Learn Basic Phrases – try to learn some simple phrases and words…it will go a long way.
✔️ Look for Hostels that fit your personality – do you want to volunteer at a party hostel or chill at a more relaxed hostel? Pick a place that fits your style.
Want to prep for your first hostel stay? Check out my in-depth guide: Staying In A Hostel | What You Need To Know
