It isn't only the young who use hostels. Many older travellers use hostels for cheap accomodation at their destinations. Backpacker Hostels cater to the backpacker’s needs and are the preferred choice for budget travelers. People from all around the world enjoy backpacking and staying in hostels.

As the evening rolls on, you may want to sit out into the night with your new friends. However, be aware that many hostels have curfews. 
 Experiencing different cultures, overcoming language barriers, and making new friends (locals and other travelers) are all part of the adventure of backpacking and staying in hostels and cheap hotels.
 Safeguard your important documents and money - Get one of those thin money belts that fit inside your clothes. That way you can carry your passport and money with you at all times.

There are as many different atmospheres as there are hostels There are hostels in castles, in teepees and in railroad carriages. A useful tip - Many hostels give discounts to students, so you should always keep your student card handy.

In all hostels, although the custom is to remain as quiet as possible at night, you should expect a small amount of noise from your fellow hostel occupants. Generally, large city hostels are open 24 hours per day, while others may have shorter opening hours. Planning that seems so trivial at home can become complicated when you are in a strange place.

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. The majority of hostels around the world are independently owned and many of these have their own bars and restaurants. Almost all hostels offer lockers, either free of charge or for hire so that people staying in dormitories can lock up their valuables. Many hostels provide access for wheelchair users, and specially adapted rooms are becoming more common.