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Writer's pictureTrey Tracy

Staying in a AirBnB vs. Hostel vs. Hotel

Updated: Aug 2, 2023



With the rapid technological advancement in various parts of the globe, traveling these days has become quite easy. From flights, destination, tours and booking, there are lots of options for people to choose from.


However, the challenge of finding the right accommodation can be quite daunting with the vast types of accommodations. With so many hostels, apartments, hotels, boutiques, the cost of traveling is competitive but the stress of looking for a good accommodation is still there.


Perhaps the biggest question almost every traveler will ask is “where should I stay?” There is no specific answer to this question, but the type of accommodation you chose will largely depend on where you are traveling to and the kind of traveler you are.

As a travel advisor, I only recommend quality hotels for my clients. However, I recognize everyone has their own preference of where to stay. So before choosing whether to stay in an AirBnB, hostel, or hotel here are three things that must be considered.

  1. Budget: Hotels range from budget-friendly to luxurious. Some places have few hotels and more AirBnB rentals, while popular areas will give you more options. However, if you are budget conscious, then your best choice should be opting for AirBnB which are more affordable than hotels. The fact remains that the cheapest hotel may be more expensive when compared to the cheapest AirBnB located in the same area. Hostels, on the other hand, are an excellent option for people who are looking for cheap accommodation.

  2. Privacy: The second factor that must be considered when choosing accommodations is your privacy. If you are a private person that does not enjoy being amidst crowds, then you must stay away from hostels because most hostels have thin walls that make it easy to hear all conversations from the other rooms. Also remember that when you stay in hostels, you will be sharing facilities with other travelers. AirBnB is an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy privacy and are also on a budget because you have a choice of booking the whole place or choosing a private room. Although booking a private AirBnB can have a higher cost implication. Hotel rooms are the best option for people who enjoy privacy, expect customer service, and want amenities such as pool, gym, room service, housekeeping, etc.

  3. People: If you are the type that enjoys meeting people and making new friends, then opting for a hostel may your best option. At the hostel, you will get to meet like-minded people and mingle with other travelers. AirBnB is an excellent option for people who want to interact with the locals and learn more about their culture and tradition. However, if you need an organized structure and professional interactions only, then staying in a hotel will be your best option. Hotels have professional customer service staff that handle your needs and ensures you are comfortable.

Finally, when choosing accommodations for your next vacation, remember that there is no best option for everyone. The best accommodation for you will largely depend on what you want, where you are going, why you are going there, and what you are comfortable with.

Hotels are excellent for people who want privacy and have a flexible budget. Hostels are for people who want to interact with other travelers while saving lots of money. AirBnB is perfect for people who want to save money and still maintain a private place.


Talk to your travel advisor to discuss your accommodation needs when planning your next vacation. He/she will help you select the best option for you.


What is your preferred type of accommodation when you travel? Let me know down in the comments.


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