Are Women-Only Dorms Worth It? – Pros, Cons, and What to Expect

I'll never forget my first night in a hostel. I was sitting on a bunk bed, backpack tossed on the floor, nervous but excited. A few hours later I was sharing beers with people from three different continents, and suddenly the world didn't feel so big after all.

That's when it struck me: hostels are more than cheap beds. They're where you instantly make new friends, swap travel stories, and feel at home. For me, a women-only dorm was the extra comfort I wanted when traveling by myself.

In this article, I'll explain what women's-only dorms are really like, their pros and cons, and what to expect. If you're a female solo traveler, I hope this helps you pick the right hostel, save money, and most importantly, feel safe and have fun on the road.

Read: Female-Only Hostels: From Search to Stay

Why Hostels Are Best for Female Solo Travelers

If you're traveling on your own, hostels make things so much easier. You don't need to eat dinner alone, organize nights out for yourself, or wonder how to meet people. There's always someone to go with.

On top of that, they're social, affordable, and usually in great locations. Even if you're introverted, hostel life has a way of pulling you in and making sure you're never really by yourself.

Hostel Activities You Can Join

Most hostels have daily or weekly activities, and that is where magic happens. Think walking tours, cooking classes, or family dinners where everyone gathers around one big table.

At night, there can be pub crawls, karaoke, or just people hanging out in the common room swapping travel tips. Some hostels even organize day trips, hikes, or beach excursions. You don't need to join in on all of it, but it's always there if you want.

When I’m browsing for hostels, I usually jump on Hostelz. It’s cool because you can see prices from different booking sites side by side, which makes it way easier to spot a good deal.

Read: Hostel Checklist for Solo Female Travelers: What to Look For

The Benefits of Female-Only Dorms

The biggest pro? Peace of mind. If you’re nervous about sharing a room with strangers, being surrounded by other women can feel a lot more comfortable.

Female-only dorms often have little touches that make them nicer. I’ve stayed in ones with hairdryers, makeup mirrors, or just a generally cleaner vibe. Not always, but often.

There’s also a sense of community. Conversations can feel easier, and sometimes you’ll end up bonding quickly with other solo female travelers who “get it.”

Read: Mindful Travel as a Woman - 15 Tips to Being More Present

The Cons of Female-Only Dorms

They’re usually more expensive than mixed dorms. Not a huge difference, but when you’re traveling on a budget, every dollar counts.

They are also occasionally quieter, which is a pro or a con depending on your environment. If you're looking to meet a wide range of people, you might find female-only dorms a little limiting.
And they do occasionally sell out quickly, so you'll need to book ahead if you want one.

If you’re not sure which hostels have the right balance of social energy and comfort, Hostelz is helpful. I just filter for female-only dorms and then check which ones mention group dinners, pub crawls, or walking tours.

What to Expect

Expect the basics: bunk beds, lockers, and a room that feels a little more private than mixed dorms. Some women like to chat, others just want to sleep. It’s a mix, but generally relaxed.

Don’t expect a luxurious, hotel-like space. It’s still a hostel dorm, and you’ll still deal with snorers, late-night arrivals, and the occasional rustling plastic bag at 2 a.m.

But overall, women-only dorms are safer, more chill, and a bit cozier.

Read: 17 Safety Tips for Female Solo Travellers

My Honest Opinion

Women-only dorms were worth it for me, especially when I first started solo traveling. They gave me that extra level of safety and comfort when I was still figuring everything out.

These days, I mix it up. I book female-only sometimes, mixed sometimes. It depends on the cost, the vibe of the hostel, and my mood at the time.

If you're nervous about hostels, start with a female-only dorm. You might love it, or you might find you don't mind mixed. Either way, you'll discover what works for you.

And honestly? That's the magic of traveling—you learn as you go.

P.S. I’ve added a few links below to women-only hostels—perfect if you want your entire stay to be in a female-only environment, not just the dorm.

• Arya Wellness - female only
• Guesthouse COCO (Female Only)
• Homs Female Hostel
• Stellar Female Hostel
• Hostelle - Women Only Hostel

About the author: HanaTravelz

Hostelz.com is your #1 hostel guide to find the best prices for every single hostel worldwide. We show you all prices and hostels at a glance - save money by using the right booking platform.