Top 10 Hostel Chains Around the World for a Solo Traveler

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Top 10 Hostel Chains for Solo Travel

For a solo traveler, there are several hostel chains that stand out for their affordability, cleanliness, and social atmosphere. These hostel chains provide a safe and comfortable environment for travelers to meet new people, share experiences, and explore the world.

Each of these hostel chains offers unique features and amenities that cater to the needs of solo travelers. From comfortable dorm rooms to private suites, from shared kitchens to communal areas, and from city-center locations to rural getaways, there is a hostel for every budget and preference.

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Hostelling International – Top 10 Hostel Chains #1

With locations in over 80 countries, Hostelling International (HI) is the largest hostel chain in the world. Their hostels are known for being clean, safe, and affordable, with a focus on community and social interaction.

Generator Hostels – Top 10 Hostel Chains #2

With locations across Europe and North America, Generator Hostels are known for their stylish design and lively atmosphere. They offer a range of room types, from dorms to private rooms, as well as a variety of amenities like bars and restaurants. We stayed in their Venice, Italy location and it was a lovely experience. The lobby is so fun and a great place to hang out with new friends.

YHA – Top 10 Hostel Chains #3

Youth Hostel Association (YHA) is another global hostel chain that is known for providing affordable accommodation in a safe and welcoming environment. They have over 4,000 hostels in over 90 countries.

Nomads Hostels – Top 10 Hostel Chains #4

Nomads Hostels is a popular hostel chain that has multiple locations around the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and the United States. Nomads Hostels are known for their fun and social atmosphere, making them great for solo travelers. They offer a range of affordable accommodations, including dorm rooms and private rooms, with shared facilities like kitchens, lounges, and game rooms.

In addition to their comfortable facilities, Nomads Hostels organize regular social events, such as pub crawls and city tours, which provide a perfect opportunity for solo travelers to meet new people and explore the local culture. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Nomads Hostels are also always available to help solo travelers with travel tips and recommendations for things to do in the area. Overall, Nomads Hostels are a great choice for solo travelers who want to have a fun and social experience while staying within their budget.

St. Christopher’s Inns – Top 10 Hostel Chains #5

With locations in Europe and North America, St. Christopher’s Inns are known for their lively atmosphere and social events. They offer a range of room types, as well as amenities like bars and restaurants. I have personally stayed in these throughout Europe and absolutely enjoyed the unique style and interactive events available.

Safestay – Top 10 Hostel Chains #6

Safestay is a hostel chain that operates in Europe and the UK, offering affordable accommodation in historic buildings like castles and mansions. They have a range of room types, as well as communal areas for guests to socialize.

Wombats Hostels – Top 10 Hostel Chains #7

With locations in Europe, Wombats Hostels are known for their comfortable beds and lively atmosphere. They offer a range of room types, as well as amenities like bars and restaurants. Their location is Vienna, Austria is one of my favorite locations because of the opportunity to be city center at a fraction of the cost of most Vienna Hotels.

Hostelworld – Top 10 Hostel Chains #8

Hostelworld is a hostel booking platform that partners with hostels around the world. While they don’t operate their own hostels, they are known for offering a wide range of affordable and safe hostels for solo travelers. I personally use this booking website all the time when traveling solo because of the amazing discounts and rewards program.

Meininger – Top 10 Hostel Chains #9

Meininger is a hostel chain that operates in major cities across Europe, offering affordable accommodation in private and shared rooms. They also have communal areas for guests to socialize, including game rooms and kitchen areas.

Selina – Top 10 Hostel Chains #10

Selina is a hostel chain that operates in Central and South America, as well as Europe and Israel. They are known for offering a range of room types, as well as amenities like bars, restaurants, and coworking spaces. While Selina may be a bit more expensive, they offer some of my favorite stays because of their great locations, fun activities, and focus on health.