Hostels

Thailand is one of the most popular destinations among backpackers. There’s even a backpackers district in Bangkok where cheap accommodation is plentiful. Although there are quite a lot of cheap hotels in Thailand, the hostels are unbelievably cheap and with careful planning you can stay in a nice private room and save some money on accommodation.

Need to know

Not all hostels are called “hostels” so don’t be too surprised if you find “guesthouses”, “places”, “hotels” and anything similar to those on the “hostels” list in any online booking system.

Not all hostels have the same facilities. Some might have just basic ones while others can resemble small hotels.

The cheapest beds can always be found in the dorms. But if you don’t like to share the night and room with people you have never met, you can always book a private room. The rates are slightly lower but you get your privacy.

Read the reviews before booking. If you suspect anything “fishy” just move to the next one on the list. Plus you don’t want to end up in a “party” hostel if you plan to sleep during the night or if you travel with the kids.

Book the room in advance. That won’t save you money – generally the prices don’t change from season to season – but it will save you a lot of headaches. Rooms book up quickly as the high season approaches and well rated hostels book up first.

Worth trying

Bangkok

Lub d Bangkok is located right in the heart of Bangkok, close to everything: shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. There is WiFi access and a bar area. The hostel has 4 types of rooms: Mixed Dorm, Ladies Only Dorm, Private Twin and Double Room ensuite. Breakfast, linen and parking are included in the room/bed price. Prices for a bed in one of the dorms start at US$18/night. A double room ensuite costs US$30/person/night. The hostel is rated very well by travelers. It’s clean, the WiFi actually works and the breakfast is enough to get you going for the day.

Chiang Mai

Seven Suns is one of the best rated hostels in the city. There are only double rooms available. AC, breakfast, linen and airport pickup are included in the room price. There is a bar and restaurant in the hostel as well. Prices start at US$12/person/night in any of the rooms (twin private ensuite or double bed private ensuite).

Spicythai Backpackers is another well rated hostel which also offers beds in dorms. Breakfast, linen, parking, AC and security lockers are included in the price. A bed in one of the dorms costs US$8/night, while for a double room private ensuite you’ll pay US$12/person/night.

Phuket

Phuket Backpacker is located right in the center of the town and offers both dorms and private rooms. AC, security lockers, breakfast, linen and airport pickup are included in the price. Prices for a bed in one of the dorms start at US$7/night, while for a double room private ensuite you’ll pay US$10/person/night.