Hostelworld
by Hostelworld Group · Travel & Navigation · Trip Planning & Reviews
Book hostels, budget hotels, and unique accommodation worldwide for backpackers and budget travelers.
Quick Answer: Hostelworld has a verified Real Score of 3.6/5 based on 19,500 verified reviews, compared to its App Store rating of 4.5/5. Mixed reviews from verified users.
Real Score vs App Store Rating
App Store Rating
Includes unverified reviews
Verified Real Score
Based on 19,500 verified reviews
Gap Alert: Hostelworld's App Store rating is 0.9 points higher than its verified Real Score. This suggests that some store reviews may be inflated by fake or incentivized ratings.
Pros & Cons
What Users Love
- Best selection of hostels worldwide
- Detailed hostel reviews and ratings
- Budget-friendly accommodation focus
- Social features for meeting travelers
Common Complaints
- Limited to budget accommodation
- Some hostels have changed since reviews
- Booking fees add up
- App can be slow
Verified Reviews (20)
Essential for backpackers
Traveled Southeast Asia for 3 months booking exclusively through Hostelworld. Never had a bad experience. The reviews are detailed and trustworthy.
Social features help solo travelers
The chat feature connecting you with other travelers at the same hostel is great for solo travelers. Made friends before even arriving. Reduces solo travel anxiety.
Booking fees are sneaky
The listed price doesnt include the booking fee. A $20/night hostel becomes $24 after fees. Not huge but adds up over a long trip. Should be included in displayed prices.
Rating categories are perfect
The separate ratings for atmosphere, security, cleanliness, location, staff, and facilities give a complete picture. Much more useful than a single overall score.
Atmosphere rating is unique
No other booking platform rates atmosphere/vibe. Knowing whether a hostel is a party hostel or a quiet one before booking is incredibly useful. Unique and valuable.
Some listings are outdated
A few hostels Ive booked looked nothing like the photos. Management had changed, renovations happened (not always for better). Check recent reviews carefully.
Found amazing hostels
Some hostels on here are nicer than hotels Ive stayed at. Rooftop bars, swimming pools, organized activities. Modern hostels are incredible and this app finds them.
Great for gap year planning
Planned my entire gap year accommodation through Hostelworld. The mapping feature showing hostels along a route is perfect for planning a travel path.
Limited for non-hostel options
If you want a private room or something more upscale, the options are limited. Its really focused on dorms and basic private rooms. Not for every type of traveler.
Map search is essential
Searching by map location is the best way to find hostels near attractions or transit. The map interface works well and shows prices clearly.
Best budget travel app
For budget travelers, Hostelworld is the go-to. The prices, reviews, and community features are all tailored to the budget travel experience. Essential app.
Community aspect is brilliant
The social features that connect travelers create a community feel. Its not just booking accommodation - its connecting with like-minded travelers worldwide.
Cancellation policies vary wildly
Each hostel sets their own cancellation policy. Some are flexible, some require 7 days notice. Make sure to check before booking, especially for non-refundable deals.
Good for spontaneous travel
The last-minute availability and instant booking makes spontaneous travel easy. Need a bed tonight in a new city? Hostelworld has you covered in minutes.
Not just for young people
Hostels have evolved beyond party dorms. Many offer private rooms, quiet hours, and mature environments. Hostelworld helps find these more refined hostel experiences.
Review photos show reality
Guest-submitted photos are essential for setting expectations. The property photos are always flattering but guest photos show what it really looks like.
Works offline too
Downloaded my booking confirmations and can access them offline. Essential when arriving in a new country without data. Good offline functionality.
Payment options could be better
Wish they accepted more payment methods. Some international travelers have trouble with the accepted payment types. PayPal support would help.
Comparison with Booking.com
For hostels specifically, Hostelworld has more options and better reviews than Booking.com. For hotels use Booking. For hostels use Hostelworld. Simple.
Niche app done right
Hostelworld knows its audience and serves them well. Budget travelers, backpackers, and hostel lovers get exactly what they need. Focused and effective.
Showing 1-20 of 12,847 reviews
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Hostelworld FAQ
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Last updated: April 2026