Booking Hostels

[cndrunt21]

Hello.

I have never backpacked before and have a very simple question that I am curious about. How and when do travelers usually book hostels? Is this something done mostly before your actual trip or during your trip or a mix of both? If during the trip, is this done via telephone, internet cafes, in person, or what?

Thanks!

[pointofnoreturn]

I booked my hostels at least 3 months prior to my trip. May, June, July and August are the prime backpacking months. Book in advance and you won't be sorry.

You can book with hostelworld through the link at the bottom of the forums - that's where I did my bookings.

[me]

it's a good idea to book ahead in popular places/hostels. if you don't, you may be disappointed when you get there.

[patrickt]

Depending on when you go, you may opt to book ahead of time.

I traveled during off-season, so rooms were not difficult to find. In fact, I would book the bed in my next city just before I left my current location... all done online via Hostelworld.com

As stated above, if you're traveling during peak tourism season, you'd be better off booking ahead... but you can still use Hostelworld.