Backpacker accommodation is typically low cost short term accommodation. Traditionally backpacker accommodation was primarily dormitory style with communal self catering facilities and social areas but in recent years the quality and services of establishments has improved dramatically. It is now not unusual for some newer establishments to include en-suite accommodation with single, double or quad occupancy rooms and offer free breakfast, air conditioning, pool and linen.


For travellers, the main benefits of backpacker accommodation include:


• The low price of the accommodation compared to alternatives such as hotels and bed and breakfasts
• Common areas (kitchens, sitting rooms, pool rooms, bars etc.) encourage more interaction between guests than in traditional hotels.
• Hostels are less formal than hotels.
• Most hostels have a library of travel guides for guests to use to plan out their journey and often provide DVD libraries and book swap systems.
• Hostel staff are genuinely there to help, provide free, independent advice on the best places to eat and drink, travel options etc.
• Many hostels provide activities for their guests for a nominal charge or no charge at all.