First-Time Hostel Stay? Here’s What You Need to Know for Keeping Your Luggage Safe

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Written By Robert

Robert is passionate about traveling, technology, and reading books on his phone.

Let’s talk about how to keep your luggage safe while staying at a hostel! If you’re a seasoned traveler, you’re probably no stranger to hostels. 

But if it’s your first time staying in one, there are a few things you should know to make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. Grab your backpack, luggage, suitcase, guitar case – and let’s get started!

First things first, because we’ve been asked this before: can you bring a suitcase to a hostel? The answer is a resounding yes! Most hostels will have a designated luggage storage area where you can leave your suitcase while you’re out exploring. Some hostels may even have lockers where you can secure your luggage with your own lock. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the hostel beforehand to see their specific luggage storage policies.

How to Keep Your Luggage Safe in a Hostel

So, how can you keep your luggage safe in a hostel? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Invest in a high-quality lock for your suitcase

While hostels generally have a reputation for being safe, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. A sturdy lock will not only deter would-be thieves, but it will also give you peace of mind while you’re out and about.

Use the luggage storage area provided by the hostel

As mentioned earlier, most hostels will have a designated luggage storage area where you can leave your suitcase while you’re out exploring. This is generally a safe and secure place to store your luggage, as it’s typically monitored by hostel staff.

A classic lock like this will last you a lifetime!

Keep valuables with you at all times

While it’s generally safe to leave your luggage in the hostel’s storage area, it’s always a good idea to keep valuables like passports, credit cards, and cash with you at all times. Consider carrying a small, secure bag or money belt to keep these items close to your body.

Here’s one of the best-selling money bags on Amazon.

Don’t leave your luggage unattended

This may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s important to always keep an eye on your luggage, especially when you’re in a crowded place like a hostel. If you need to step away from your luggage for any reason, make sure to take it with you or ask a trusted friend or family member to keep an eye on it.

Consider using anti-theft luggage

If you’re really worried about the safety of your luggage, there are plenty of options out there for anti-theft luggage. These types of bags are designed with security features like lockable zippers, RFID-blocking pockets, and cut-resistant materials. Some popular brands to consider include Pacsafe, Lojel, and Travelon.

Want an example of one of the best-selling brands and bags?

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Now that we’ve covered some tips for keeping your luggage safe in a hostel, let’s talk about what you should (and shouldn’t) bring with you to a hostel.

Things to bring to a hostel:

A comfortable, lightweight backpack

A backpack (of nylon material, for example) is a great choice for a hostel because it’s easy to carry aro und and allows you to keep your hands free. Make sure to pack a backpack that’s comfortable to wear and has plenty of compartments to keep your belongings organized.

A small, secure bag/money belt and a lock

As mentioned earlier, it’s a good idea to keep valuables like passports, credit cards, and cash with you at all times. A small bag or money belt is a great way to do this while keeping your belongings close to your body. Anything else you decide to keep at the hostel, always keep it locked in one of the provided lockers with your own padlock.

A small, portable charger

Hostels often have communal areas where you can charge your phone and other electronics, but it’s always a good idea to bring a small, portable charger in case you’re unable to access an outlet. This way, you’ll never have to worry about your phone dying while you’re out exploring.

This is the portable charger we recommend – it fast-charges devices and is small enough to carry everywhere and never notice it.

A towel and toiletries

Most hostels will provide towels, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own just in case. Pack a small toiletry bag with items like shampoo, conditioner, soap, and a toothbrush.

Comfortable, versatile clothing

When packing for a hostel stay, it’s important to bring clothing that’s comfortable and versatile (don’t make mistakes when packing that others tend to make!). Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen, and consider packing a mix of long and short sleeves to accommodate different weather conditions.

Things to avoid bringing to a hostel:

Expensive or sentimental items

While hostels are generally safe, it’s always a good idea to leave expensive or sentimental items at home. This includes things like designer handbags, heirloom jewelry, and sentimental photographs.

Too many unnecessary items

Hostels can be cramped, so it’s important to pack light and only bring the essentials. Avoid packing too many unnecessary items, as it will just take up valuable space and make it harder to keep your belongings organized.

Food that will attract pests

Hostels are notorious for attracting pests like mice and cockroaches. To avoid attracting these unwanted guests, avoid bringing food that has a strong smell or is prone to spoiling, like raw meat or dairy products.

Now that you know what to bring (and what to leave behind) when staying at a hostel, you’re well on your way to a stress-free and enjoyable trip. Just remember to keep your luggage safe and secure, and you’ll be all set for a memorable hostel experience.

Keeping Your Luggage Safe in a Hostel

Staying at a hostel doesn’t have to be stressful, as long as you follow a few simple tips for keeping your luggage safe and secure. Invest in a high-quality lock, use the luggage storage area provided by the hostel, and keep valuables with you at all times. And if you’re really worried about the safety of your luggage, consider using an anti-theft bag like Pacsafe, Lojel, or Travelon. Just remember to bring the essentials, avoid packing unnecessary items, and steer clear of food that will attract pests. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a stress-free and enjoyable hostel stay.