There is a terrific sense of freedom by going backpacking and staying at hostels. It is useful to be able to compare room rates at a number of hostels in your preferred destination. By booking in advance, you save yourself from worrying about your accomodation or hotel room, and can get on with enjoying your vacation.

Most hostels offer private rooms and dormitories. Private rooms are usually singles, twins or doubles and some properties also offer triples. Youth Hostels provide the perfect way to get to know a country at low cost. Go to the tourist office. Here you can pickup a free tourist map and ask questions about what to do or what to see.

There are as many different atmospheres as there are hostels There are hostels in castles, in teepees and in railroad carriages. Some hostels are huge, providing beds for hundreds; others consist of a single room in a friendly family home.

Tip of the day - Always carry your student or youth card because you may be able to get a discount. Many hostels provide internet access, laundry, and free breakfast. While most hostels do not impose an age restriction, this is not always the case, particularly in establishments which have a bar on the premises.

Today, many hostels are not unlike budget hotels where the only significant difference is the price. Generally, large city hostels are open 24 hours per day, while others may have shorter opening hours. Use your travel reference to find a hostel that satisfies your needs. Planning that seems so trivial at home can become complicated when you are in a strange place.