29 Essentials for Hostel Stays: Your Packing Must-Haves
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When staying in a hostel, it can be easy to forget that they don’t have all the bells and whistles that hotels do. So, remembering your list of essentials for hostel stays is important! If you’re like me, you started putting these items in a pile months before your trip. Otherwise, I tend to forget the things needed for a hostel stay. Hopefully, I can introduce you to new ways to save space and money, like soap nuts (more of them below)! Whether you’re headed to Austria or Stockholm, my packing list for hostels is here for you.
Especially if you’re asking yourself, “What are the necessary items for a girl in a hostel?” And if you’re more of a backpacker than a luggage lady like myself, here’s the best personal item backpack for travel.
Building Your List Hostel Items List
Hostels are a super fun way to stay abroad or domestically on a budget! I’ve stayed in nine hostels to date, mostly across Europe, so I’m well informed to give you the details on what to add to your list of things to bring to a hostel.
Packing Essentials for Hostel Life
Whether you’re staying at a hostel for a few nights or planning to tour the globe while staying in a hostel. These essentials for hostel stays will help you obtain that goal!
Packing List for Hostels
Get yourself a packing list like the one above ASAP. It helps you narrow down what you don’t need and reminds you of anything you may have missed. I know it is kinda weird to list a packing list on a packing list but trust me, this will be useful! I cannot count the times I’ve forgotten something I recalled once I reviewed my list.
Packing Cubes to Save Space
Also, grab yourself some packing cubes. I got them at a travel conference and have been using them since. They save some room since they help to compress your clothes, but more importantly, they help me organize my wardrobe. I put all my shorts in one, and the shirts in another, you get the idea. It just helps me quickly get ready without scrounging through my entire suitcase.
Suitcase with a Lock
Some of you are going to be like, ‘oh hell no, not a suitcase!’ That’s fine; some of you are backpacking people. I’m not keen on backpacks, so I will stick with a medium-sized suitcase for my travels.
After several trips, I’ve fallen in love with my Delsey hardside luggage. It’s the best luggage to use on a long trip (I tend to go for 2-4 weeks). My Delsey hardside luggage is a decent size—29″—so it’s too big for a carry-on. However, it’s not gigantic, so I never find myself struggling with it.
I have the Delsey hardside expanding rolling luggage, which is fantastic, as I know nothing in there will be crushed or smooshed in transit. The rolling double spinner wheels are wonderful as they’re easier on the back and make it easy to wheel around, even on those European cobblestones!
The lock it has is great for when you’re staying in a hostel, which is why I’m adding it as one of my essentials for hostel stays. I can’t usually fit the suitcase in the lockers they provide, so it’s nice to know my stuff is protected no matter what.
Anti-Theft Travel Purse
Get a slash-proof / anti-theft purse like the Travelon Messenger Bag seen here. I’ve been using mine since 2021. Before I went to Barcelona, everyone had warned me about pickpockets, so I searched for a bag I could rely on before my trip. I’ve used it for every trip since, and it hasn’t let me down yet!
Whichever anti-theft purse you choose, I highly recommend a crossbody. They are the best travel purses because they are safer, as it’s harder to steal a purse that’s across your chest.
I’ve fit everything I need into this crossbody bag: passport, journal, money, portable charger, glasses case, and the usual items. The Travelon one also has a nifty slot for a water bottle, which is one of the reasons I picked this case in the first place.
If you’d like to learn even more about why I love the Travelon Messenger Bag, check out my post on the best purse for traveling in Europe!
Toiletries and Cosmetics
Below, you’ll find a list of the must-have toiletries and cosmetics you’ll need when staying in a hostel! Obviously, if you’re not a fan of cosmetics, you’re more than welcome to pare down this list. However, please remember that hostels don’t provide all the “usual” toiletries that hotels do so ensure you’re taking with you what you’ll need.
One of the few essentials for hostel stays they usually do provide however is soap, so you can leave that off your list.
Shampoo and Conditioner Bars
I’ve gone on trips lasting from 2 weeks to a month, and as I’m a big cosmetics/hair gal, liquid limitations are not my friend. However, I’ve gotten better about this over the years.
Some of the liquid-less alternatives I like are Ethique Shampoo and Conditioner bars. I also really love their body butter, as it helped alleviate some of the itchiness I had due to eczema. They also have face scrubs, body wash, deodorant, and more. They are also an ethical haircare company, meaning that they use clean ingredients, are vegan and cruelty-free, and use compostable packaging.
The only product of theirs I haven’t loved is the deodorant, but that’s simply because when the block wears down, it kinda becomes hard to apply, but otherwise, I’ve been happy with their line.
Travel Sized Containers
If you’re dying to bring your regular shampoo and conditioner or any liquid products for that matter, transfer them to a travel-sized container. It’ll take up far less space than your usual full-sized product. I have some products that come in glass containers so if for no other reason, it’ll also lessen the weight of your luggage if you have products like these as well.
Stay Wrinkle Free with Downey Spray
The top of my packing hostel guide, is Downey Spray, as it saved my butt on quite a few occasions when my clothes had gotten severely wrinkled. Trust me, it’ll happen to your travel outfits, even if you purposely bought the shirt that ‘doesn’t wrinkle.’
I brought along a hanger as well so that I had somewhere to hang the clothes after I unwrinkled them. Course, some hostels do provide hangars, but I’ve seen some that don’t, so make your own choice whether or not to bring one.
Pack a Mini-Manicure Set
A must on my list of essentials for hostel stays for girls is a manicure set! I’ve had a 007 Manicure set for ten years and it still holds together. Unfortunately, I got it at a dollar store, so I can’t find a link for it, but the one here will do fine as well.
I suggest investing in one of these if you don’t already have one, as most will provide you with not just a nail clipper but also tweezers, mini-scissors, a nail file, and sometimes other items you may need. Just remember to put it in your luggage and not your carry-on since the TSA doesn’t allow scissors. Or you can remove the scissors and it should be fine.
Nail Polish Travel Tips
My nails started to chip around the third day of my trip, so the nail polish I brought along was a great idea. Just make sure to pack it well in case the bottle breaks. I know a lot of people are now doing gel manicures. However, I got one when I went to Europe, and it took about six months for my nail strength to return. So, I don’t recommend gel manicures.
If you don’t want to go through the hassle of touching up your nails, you can put on a coat of clear nail polish to make them look healthier and cleaner. You can also use this clear nail polish in case your stockings run!
I love items that have multiple uses!
Conditioner or Shaving Cream?
If you’re in a pinch, you can use conditioner instead of shaving cream. However, I spend so much on hair products that I wouldn’t dare do that. I’d rather just buy the travel-size shaving cream. It doesn’t weigh much, and you could stuff it in a boot to help it keep its shape as well. Double whammy on this packing list for hostels!
Lotion: Especially for Cold Travel Destinations
I bring hand lotion with me everywhere, even when I’m not traveling. You can use it to moisturize your skin, but you can also use it to take off stubborn makeup at the end of the night. I was recently in Finland, and my eczema was flaring up due to being wrapped in layers and layers, so I really needed to keep my skin moist else I’d be itchy all day. While it was a constant battle, I did find lotioning up at night with a lotion made specifially for those with eczema did help, making it a must on my packing list for hostels.
Note: I haven’t used the specific brand above, but it’s very similar to my normal Aveeno one.
Makeup Remover Pads
Another item I have on my list of essentials for hostel stays and also use at home is my makeup remover pads. These make it easy to remove my makeup at the end of the day without too much trouble. They’re also machine washable when hand washing doesn’t get all that mascara off the cloth.
Toiletry Bag for Ease
Having a toiletry bag on hand will also help with bathrooms that aren’t en suite. This way, you can easily carry whatever items you need to the shower or bathroom area.
Hair Styling to Go
Very occasionally I’ve seen blow dryers at hostels, so if you like to use anything beyond that for your hair, then make sure to take it with you as it’s highly doubtful the hostel will provide.
Hair Straighteners
I’ve used my flat iron nearly every day on vacation, but I should also note that I also use it daily at home, so that’s to be expected. The Elchim Natures Touch Flat Iron I have listed here was recommended to me by my hairstylist. It has a warranty; just remember to submit your purchase to the company so it activates, unlike me, who forgot to and now has no warranty (whomp whomp). But it is a must on my packing list for hostels because I used it daily!
Curling Irons
I’ve used my curling iron only a handful of times while on vacation. The Conair Double Ceramic 1 1/2-Inch Curling Iron I have shown above I got recently as I wanted bigger waves and have been loving it! However, I know myself and get tired on vacation, so sometimes I wish I didn’t lug it along. Make this choice for yourself, but I definitely recommend the Conair if you do want a curling iron.
Hair Dryers
As for hairdryers, I’ve found most hostels have these nowadays, or at least if it’s not in your room you can usually ask for one. I wouldn’t waste the space in your bag bringing one along.
Keeping Clean on Vacay
Need I say more? We all need a good way to stay squeaky clean—whether that be you or your clothes!
Soap Nuts or Laundry Detergent Sheets?
When I first stayed in a hostel, a coworker recommended soap nuts. To my recollection, you put a few of these nut-looking things into the little bag, get them wet, and they suds up. You can either hand wash or machine wash with these. Just dry them out after use, and you can store and use them again later.
Soap nuts work just fine, but I’ve since moved onto laundry detergent sheets as I find them easier. All you need to do is fill a sink with water, place a sheet in, and it suds up. I did a whole load of laundry this way in a hotel room in Thailand. Making it a must on my packing list for hostels.
Travel Towel and Flip Flops for Showering
Some people add a towel to their packing list for hostels. I don’t like taking up all that room in my suitcase, but this is totally up to you. Usually, it’s a couple of dollars (or whatever the local currency is) to get one, so it’s not too expensive.
If your hostel has a communal shower, I’d advise bringing flip-flops. Not all hostels operate this way, so make sure to check (Hostel World usually has this info) before you bring them with you for no reason, but if they do, it’s best to keep those toes safe and add it as a must get on your packing list for hostels!
Safety First and Medical Needs
I am not a doctor or medical expert, so please take with you what you believe you’ll need or what you’ve discussed with a licensed professional. These suggestions are only what I bring with me that I’ve found useful on prior trips.
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Travel Size First Aid Kit
A first aid kit is necessary as you never know when you’ll need it. I usually wind up with at least one blister on my travels, so it is useful for that, at the least. Add whatever medical-type items you think you may need to this as a must on your packing list for hostels.
Packing tip: It’s best to break in your shoes before you go. However, with all the walking, there is still a high chance of blisters.
Pain Relief
Advil or Ibuprofen is also a good idea. Obviously, I am not your doctor, so this isn’t me prescribing you anything. I am just reminding you that sometimes headaches and muscle aches do occur, so bring with you what you and your doctor think best. The last thing you want to do is be in pain on your exciting adventure!
Sleep Aids for Noisy Roomies
Sleeping in a hostel can be difficult for some, especially if you’re a light sleeper. So, it’s always best to take precautions so that you don’t travel while sleep-deprived.
Ear Plugs and Sleeping Mask (Eye Mask)
I am far too old now to share a room with five other females, but once upon a time I did, so I’m advising you that if you’re staying in a room with other people, especially ones you don’t know and you’re a light sleeper, please do bring ear plugs and a sleeping mask as everyone is on a different schedule than you.
Someone may be leaving for the airport really early, and the last thing you want is to be awakened at 4 am, so take precautions by adding these items to your list of essentials for hostel stays!
Note: When I do use earplugs, I tend to sleep with my phone on vibrate near me, so if I don’t hear the alarm, then at least I feel it.
Melatonin for When You Can’t Sleep
While we’re on the topic of being disturbed by others, I recommend melatonin if you’re a light sleeper or just have trouble sleeping in general. You can get this over the counter, but again, consult your doctor if you have questions. I find that it helps get me to sleep when I really cannot get myself to go to sleep. I’m told not to take it super regularly cause, like anything, its effects can lessen, so I recommend adding this to your essentials for hostel stays only if you’re having a rough time catching some Zs.
Note: I used to get the gummies from this brand, but it appears they no longer make them. However, these should be just as good!
Tech and Gadgets
Always, always, always remember your tech on a trip! I recall the days without it, and they were a heck of a lot more difficult! Yes, I date far back enough that I remember real maps from AAA or printing out MapQuest directions. I don’t want you to waste time with that, so remembering your tech, such as an outlet adapter or a power bank, is essential on your packing list for hostels!
International Plug Adapter
No matter where you’re staying on your trip, you’ll need an international plug adapter. The last thing you want to be is like that girl in the movie trying to plug in her electronic device, only to short-circuit the town because she had the wrong plug! Which means it is essential on my packing list for hostels!
Packing tip: Make sure your items fit into the adapter correctly. I once brought a hair dryer with a big plug that didn’t fit into the adapter correctly, so I couldn’t use it on my trip.
Note: I haven’t used this exact adapter I’ve got here on the essentials for hostels list, but mine looks very similar!
Portable Charger (Power Bank)
I know you’ll be taking tons of photos on your trip, so be sure to take an external battery pack with you. The one I use is so darn old that they don’t sell it anymore, but I’m sharing a top-rated one here for you to pick up so you don’t lose the chance to get all those photos on your trip!
Misc Essentials for Hostels
Items that didn’t quite fit anywhere else on this packing list for hostels!
Food Storage and Marking Your Territory
You’ll want to bring some zip locks with you to store some of your items, but you can also use them to store some food you have in the refrigerator at your hostel. You’ll need a sharpie to mark down your name on it so that no one accidentally nicks your sandwich! And you don’t want anyone to do that, so make sure to add it to your list of essentials for hostel stays or borrow one from the staff!
You should also bring a padlock to store your luggage. I haven’t seen this in a while, but a few years back, you did have to provide your own padlock to lock away your luggage during the day, or they’d charge you for a rental of one. Research your hostel to see if you’ll need this. Hostel World usually has this information. They are quite heavy, though, so renting one if needed may be the better choice.
Your Ultimate Hostel Packing List
Essentials for Hostel Stays FAQ
What luggage should I bring to a hostel?
Any luggage you like! However, if it’s on the larger side, they may not have lockers that can fit it, so keep that in mind. My luggage, which is a Delsey hardside, is usually too big for lockers in the room, but since it has a lock itself, I don’t worry about it.
What toiletries do hostels provide?
Other than soap in the bathrooms, there is usually nothing. However, some hostels sell toiletries if you have forgotten something or don’t wish to go to a local store to get whatever it is you’re missing.
Should I bring my laptop to a hostel?
This really depends. I’ve brought my laptop while staying in private rooms and didn’t have to worry about strangers. If I was in a shared room I maybe a little concerned.
What are the things that should be done before staying in a hostel?
Essentially, everything on this list of things to take to hostel should be reviewed. Why? Because you have to remember that a hostel is not a hotel. They don’t have all the fancy amenities that hotels do. Sure, some hostels have gotten nicer over the years. But always check to see what they provide so that you’re not leaving home without something you may need that won’t be provided there.
What should you look for in a hostel before you book it?
I’ve got a whole post on that for ya! Check out what’s the difference between a hostel and a hotel to get all the details.
What’s the best place to book a hostel?
I recommend booking your stay on Hostelworld. They only require a low deposit and have simple cancellation policies, which is great if anything interrupts your travel plans or you need to make a change.
Final Thoughts on Essentials for Hostels
I hope this helps you figure out what to put in your essential packing list for hostels! Comment below if you have any questions or if you have any suggestions on items I’ve missed on this list of things to pack for hostel.
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