Do Hostels Have Showers? Of course, but ...

Worried about hygiene on your backpacking trip? Don't be! Hostels have your shower needs covered.

Our quick answer: Hostels DO have showers. The setup varies though!

This is what this quick guide is about. It is very simple to understand, just like how hostels work.

Tip: Check out our FAQ at the end for more information.

Type of showers

Hostels know that travelers need showers, but not all showers are the same. Here's what you might find:

• Communal Showers: Most have communal showers. This means you share the shower area with other people staying at the hostel. Most communal areas have multiple shower stalls, so you might not have to wait.
• Communal Bathrooms: If you’re in a dorm, you’ll likely also have a shared bathroom in addition to the communal shower area

• Showers in the Room: Some hostels have showers inside the hostel room where people sleep. These can be in the form of one normal shower or several individual ones. If there's only one, you'll need to take turns and might have to wait to use it.

• Showers in a Separate Room: Many hostels have showers in different rooms. You might share this room with people from other dorms. These shower rooms often have more than one shower, so you don't have to wait as long.

• Ensuite Bathrooms: Some hostels have private rooms with their own private bathroom and private showers. This bathroom is only for you, and it usually has a toilet, sink, and shower. If you're wondering how to find good hostels with these facilities, a bit of planning helps.

A quick search for ''a hostel near me'' will show you various options with communal or private showers.

Shower Facilities and Amenities

Are hostel showers clean?

The answer is a resounding YES (most of the time!). Hostels know that clean bathrooms are a top priority for travelers.

Hostels usually have staff dedicated to keeping every hostel bathroom clean, often multiple times a day.

• Hot Water: Most modern hostels have reliable hot water systems. While the occasional cold showers surprise might happen (it's part of the adventure), it's not the norm. Booking the right hostel through affordable platforms can save money for these little comforts.

Some hostels go above and beyond the basics to make your shower experience more enjoyable. Here's what you might find:

• Free Toiletries: Some rare hostels provide complimentary soap and shampoo.
• Towel Rentals: If you're trying to save space in your backpack, most hostels offer towel rentals for a small fee, sometimes even for free, a great option if you’re looking for ways to save money on your travels. If you’re a Member of a hostel network (e.g., Hostelling International), you might get free towel rentals or upgrades.
• Hair Dryers: While not always available in the bathrooms themselves, many hostels have hair dryers that you can borrow from the reception.
• Extra Amenities: Some hostels even offer shower caps, cotton swabs, and other little extras to make your stay more comfortable, but that’s rather rare. If you volunteer through Workaway, you might find hostels that go the extra mile.

Hostel Shower Etiquette

Sharing a bathroom with strangers might sound daunting, but it's really not that bad—as long as everyone follows a few simple rules. Hostel etiquette tips are your best guide here. Hostel bathrooms are shared, so remember to keep everything tidy for other travelers!

Here's how to be a considerate hostel shower-er:

• Time Management: Peak shower times (usually mornings and evenings) can get a bit hectic. Be mindful of others waiting and try to keep your showers short and sweet. No need to set a timer, but try to avoid long, luxurious soaks when the bathroom is busy.

• Shower Shoes: Hostel showers are a high-traffic zone, and shower shoes like flip flops are safety essential for hostel travel, and your first line of defense against unwanted foot fungi. Trust us, your feet (and your fellow travelers) will thank you.
• Shower Caddy: Fumbling around for your shampoo bottle while balancing on one foot is not a good look (or a safe one). A shower caddy or toiletry bag keeps all your toiletries organized and within easy reach. Plus, it makes it easier to transport your stuff to and from the shower. Consider investing in a cheap one if you’re staying in a hostel for a long time.
• Cleanliness: This should go without saying, but always clean up after yourself. Rinse out the shower stall and wipe up any spills or hair. Always hang up your towel and keep your clothes off the floor so they don’t get wet.

Tips for a Great Hostel Shower Experience

Want to make your hostel shower experience as smooth as possible? First-time hostel tips can help you navigate shared spaces.

Follow these travel tips to ensure a smooth hostel shower experience:

• Pack Smart: Ditch the bulky bath towel and opt for a compact, quick-drying towel. These towels are lighter, take up less space in your backpack, and dry in a flash.

• Timing is Everything: Avoid showering during peak times. These usually fall in the early morning (7-9 AM) and early evening (6-8 PM).

Here is our guide about what to pack when staying in a hostel.

Common FAQs for hostel showers:

Are hostels safe?

Many first-timers wonder, are hostels safe? Generally, they are—especially when it comes to well-maintained showers.

Do hostels have showers?
Yes, they do. It’s a common question on forums like reddits and subreddits, but rest assured most hostels worldwide are equipped with showers...

Do hostels have towels?

Many do! Some provide them for free, others rent them for a small fee. Always check ahead or read reviews.
Do hostels have laundry?

Quite a few hostels provide coin-operated or paid laundry facilities. If that’s important to you, confirm before booking.

Do hostels have communal showers, and what are they?

Most hostels have hostel communal showers—especially in dorm-style accommodations—so be prepared to share the space.

What type of showers are there in hostels?
There may be private ensuite showers, communal showers, or external shower blocks.

What are hostel open showers or coed shower hostel?

Some hostels, though less common, have fully open or coed shower areas. This varies widely by region and the hostel’s style. But these are very rare.
Do hostels have dryers?
Some hostels do have dryers (often in the same area as laundry facilities), though it can be for a small fee. These are more common in the United States and Canada, not so much in other parts of the world.

Do hostels have private bathrooms?

Yes—private rooms or ensuite options often include a small bathroom for just you (or your group).

Do hostels have shampoo / do hostels have soap?

It depends. Some offer basic toiletries in shared bathrooms or free toiletry baskets in private rooms, but it’s best to bring your own or ask in advance.

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