Best Backpacker Hostel Jobs: How to Travel with Free Accommodation

Ever thought about swapping a few hours of work for front-row seats to the world’s most incredible destinations? Hostel volunteering is your ticket. It’s not just about saving cash—it’s about cooking breakfast at a jungle lodge in Costa Rica, organizing rooftop parties in Athens, or guiding hikes in the Peruvian Andes.

Update: We list all hostels offering jobs right now here. This is a new feature and completely free for you to use. Simply filter by country or continent and take a closer look.

Here are the best hostel volunteering opportunities that will let you swap your time for a free stay - and some great memories.

Thailand

Thailand is the holy grail for backpackers, offering affordable and delicious food, postcard-perfect islands, and an unmatched blend of chaotic cities and serene islands.

Koh Phangan

• While it’s internationally famous for its Full Moon Parties, Koh Phangan also has a quieter, soulful side. Think secluded beaches and yoga retreats perfect for detoxing after a week of partying.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Koh PhanGan:
  5 hours per day, 1 day off.
  Administration, Reception, Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Bangkok

• This city is pure chaos—in the best way possible. From tuk-tuk rides through neon-lit streets to floating markets and late-night Pad Thai, Bangkok is a sensory overload worth every minute.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Bangkok:
  4 hours per day, 1 day off.
  Bartending, Reception, Kitchen Hand, Administration.

Chiang Mai

• This northern gem is a perfect mix of adventure and introspection. Trek through Chiang Mai's jungles, chat with monks, or indulge in a massage after a long day exploring its temples.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Chiang Mai:
  5 hours per day, 2 days off.
  Party Promoter (organize and promote social activities) and Cleaning (1 hour per day).

Koh Tao

• Known as the budget diver’s paradise, Koh Tao is where you can learn to scuba dive without breaking the bank. Above water, the sunsets aren’t too shabby either.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Koh Tao
  5 hours per day, 1 day off.
  Administration, Reception, Bartending.

Phuket

• Beyond its party rep, Phuket has everything from luxury resorts to street food markets. It’s also the gateway to exploring the stunning Phi Phi Islands.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Phuket
  4 hours per day, 1 day off.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping, Reception.

Krabi

• The dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and relaxed vibe make Krabi a paradise for climbers, beach lovers, and anyone needing a digital detox.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Krabi
  5 hours per day, 1 day off.
  Kitchen Hand, Cleaning, Reception.

Vietnam

Vietnam is a feast for the senses and the soul. From steaming bowls of pho on every corner to jaw-dropping landscapes like Halong Bay and the rice terraces of Sapa, it’s a country of wonders. And let’s not forget—the coffee culture here is next-level.

Hanoi

• Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, is a whirlwind of honking motorbikes, historical landmarks, and lakeside beauty.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Hanoi
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Reception, Bartending.

Ninh Binh

• Often overshadowed by Hanoi, Ninh Binh is the unsung hero of northern Vietnam. With its towering karsts and beautiful boat rides, it’s a dream destination for nature lovers.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Ninh Binh
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week
  Administration, Reception.

Da Nang

• Known for its golden beaches and Marble Mountains, Da Nang strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. Plus, it’s a short hop to Hoi An for even more adventure.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Da Nang
  6 hours per day, 2 days off per week
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Bartending.

Hoi An

• With its lantern-lit streets and tailor shops, Hoi An feels like stepping into a living, shimmering, postcard. Be sure to sample its legendary cao lau noodles and explore the countryside by bike.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Hoi An
  5 hours per day, 1 day off per week
  Bartending.

Indonesia:

With over 17,000 islands, you can chase surf breaks in Bali, hike volcanoes in Java, or lose yourself in the untouched beauty of the Gili Islands.

Ubud, Bali

• Ubud is the spiritual heart of Bali, where lush rice paddies meet a thriving arts scene. It’s also a yoga haven, perfect for recharging after days of island-hopping.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Ubud
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week
  Party Promoter.

Canggu, Bali

• Hip cafes, amazing surf, and a relaxed vibe make Canggu the ultimate spot for digital nomads and beach lovers alike. Come for the waves, stay for the sunsets.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Canggu
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week
  Photography, Video Making, Party Promoter, Social Media.

Uluwatu, Bali

• A mecca for surfers, Uluwatu boasts dramatic cliffs and hidden beaches.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Uluwatu
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week
  Music, Tour Guide, Party Promoter.

Gili Islands

• With no motorized vehicles and plenty of ocean views, the Gili Islands are perfect for those wanting to slow down and soak in the tropical vibes.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in The Gili Islands
  5 hours per day, 1 day off per week
  Night Shift, Tour Guide, Party Promoter.

Brazil

Brazil is pure energy—whether it’s the rhythm of samba, the roar of Iguazu Falls, or the laid-back vibes of its beaches. Each region has its own flavor, making it a dream destination for adventurous backpackers.

Rio de Janeiro

• Famous for its iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Copacabana Beach, Rio is a city where life happens outdoors. From its favelas to Sugarloaf Mountain, every inch is unforgettable.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Rio de Janeiro
  8 hours per day, 4 days off per week.
  Night Shift, Reception.

São Paulo

• Sao Paulo is a sprawling metropolis with a thriving art and food scene.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Sao Paulo
  9 hours per day, 4 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping, Administration, Reception.

Salvador

• The Afro-Brazilian culture shines in Salvador, with its colonial architecture, capoeira performances, and mouthwatering cuisine.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Salvador
  5 hours per day, 1 day off per week.
  Reception, Kitchen Hand, Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Florianópolis

• Known as the “Island of Magic,” Florianópolis offers a mix of stunning beaches and a buzzing nightlife, perfect for surfers and party-goers alike.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Florianopolis
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Administration, Housekeeping, Reception.

Fortaleza

• A sun-soaked city with pristine beaches, Fortaleza is a kiteboarding paradise. It’s also a gateway to exploring smaller, beautiful coastal towns.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Fortaleza
  6 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Kitchen Hand, Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Recife

• Recife is often called the “Venice of Brazil” for its network of waterways.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Recife
  10 hours per day, 4 days off per week.
  Night Shift, Cleaning, Housekeeping, Reception.

Curitiba

• Curitiba is a hidden gem for travelers seeking a quieter Brazilian experience. Don’t miss its botanical gardens!

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Curitiba
  5h20m per week, 1 day off per week.
  Night Shift, Housekeeping, Reception, Cleaning.

Manaus

• Tucked in the Amazon rainforest, Manaus is your gateway to jungle adventures. It’s the perfect base for exploring the wild side of Brazil.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Manaus
  6 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping, Gardening.

Mexico

Mexico is the land of extremes—bustling cities, quiet pueblos, turquoise cenotes, and ancient ruins. It’s a cultural kaleidoscope where you can salsa in a plaza one night and explore a jungle temple the next.

Mexico City

• Mexico City is where every corner has a story, from Aztec ruins tucked under skyscrapers to the cozy taquerias you’ll wish you had at home. Wander through Chapultepec Park, lose yourself in the National Museum of Anthropology, or sip mezcal while people-watching in Roma.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Mexico City
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Reception, Bartending.

Tulum

• Picture lounging on powder-white beaches by day and dancing under starlit jungle canopies by night. Tulum’s Mayan ruins perched on cliffs are as photogenic as they are awe-inspiring.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Tulum
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Reception, Bartending.

Playa del Carmen

• If Cancun is a loud DJ, Playa del Carmen is the cool acoustic set. Here, you’ll find breezy beach bars, awesome reefs for snorkeling, and just enough nightlife to keep things interesting.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Playa del Carmen
  5 hours per day, 1 day off per week.
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter.

Cancun

• Beyond the spring break reputation, Cancun offers crystal-clear waters, easy access to the stunning Isla Mujeres, and enough tequila to make you reconsider your limits.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Cancun
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Administration, Cleaning, Housekeeping, Reception.

Oaxaca City

• Oaxaca City is a sensory feast where cobblestone streets lead to mezcal tastings, mole-making classes, and colorful festivals. Don’t leave without exploring Monte Albán, an ancient Zapotec capital.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Oaxaca City
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Reception.

Puerto Escondido

• Surfers, rejoice—Puerto Escondido’s Zicatela Beach has some of the best waves in the world. Not a surfer? The town’s laid-back vibe and dramatic sunsets will win you over anyway.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Puerto Escondido
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Organizing social activities.

Guadalajara

• Known as the birthplace of tequila and mariachi, Guadalajara seamlessly blends tradition and modernity.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Guadalajara
  5 hours per day, 4 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Mérida

• In Mérida, colonial mansions line quiet streets, and markets overflow with Yucatecan specialties like cochinita pibil. It’s a gateway to Mayan ruins and those irresistible cenotes.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Merida
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping, Administration, Reception.

Bacalar

• The “Lake of Seven Colors” of Bacalar is more stunning in person than any photo could ever capture. Kayak through its waters or just sit back and marvel at nature’s palette.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Bacalar
  5 hours per day, 1 day off per week.
  Bartending, Kitchen Hand, Party Promoter, Reception.

Spain

Whether you’re chasing art, history, or wine, Spain has it all.

Barcelona

• Gaudí’s surreal designs will leave you awestruck, but don’t stop there. Barcelona’s beach-to-bar scene, historic Gothic Quarter, and legendary nightlife are just the beginning. Oh, and the tapas? Divine.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Barcelona
  5 hours per day, 4 days off per week.
  Night Shift, Reception.

Madrid

• Madrid doesn’t do dull. Lose yourself in the Prado Museum, chill at El Retiro Park, or savor churros with chocolate at midnight. Madrid is as alive as its plazas.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Madrid
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Party Promoter, Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Find all hostel in Spain here.

Granada

• The Alhambra steals the show here, but Granada’s charm extends to its streets, free tapas culture, and flamenco traditions.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Granada
  5 hours per day, 3 days off per week.
  Music, Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Bartending.

Seville

• A city drenched in orange-blossom scent, Seville is all about romance and rhythm.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Seville
  6 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Night Shift, Kitchen Hand, Housekeeping, Reception.

Valencia

• Where else can you marvel at futuristic architecture, sunbathe on beaches, and feast on authentic paella? Valencia is Spain’s sunny star with a Mediterranean soul.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Valencia
  5 hours per day, 3 days off per week.
  Reception, Party Promoter, Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Malaga

• Birthplace of Picasso and gateway to the Costa del Sol, Malaga charms with its art museums, rooftop bars, and seaside atmosphere.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Malaga
  5 hours per day, 3 days off per week.
  Party Promoter, Kitchen Hand, Bartending, Night Shift.

Portugal

Portugal is a backpacker’s dream—affordable, picturesque, and packed with character.

Lisbon

• A city of seven hills, Lisbon offers breathtaking views at every turn. Tram rides through Alfama, riverside strolls, and soulful fado music make it an unforgettable destination.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Lisbon
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Administration, Cleaning, Housekeeping, Reception.

Porto

• Sip port wine by the Douro River in Porto and explore the city’s blue-tiled facades and medieval streets.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Porto
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Night Shift, Kitchen Hand, Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Faro

• Often overlooked for bigger cities, Faro is your gateway to the Algarve’s dreamy beaches. Its quiet, historic center is perfect for recharging before heading into the waves.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Faro
  4 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Night Shift, Cleaning, Housekeeping, Reception.

Lagos

• If you like your coastal towns with dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and a touch of nightlife, Lagos is the place to be. Don’t miss the iconic Ponta da Piedade cliffs.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Lagos
  6 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Albufeira

• Known for its nightlife and stunning beaches, Albufeira is a mix of party vibes and sun-soaked relaxation.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Albufeira
  4 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Reception, Housekeeping, Bartending.

Greece

Greece is where mythology meets Mediterranean magic. Think dramatic cliffs plunging into azure waters, ancient ruins whispering stories of gods, and family-run tavernas serving food so good you’ll wish you had a second stomach.

Athens

• Sure, the Parthenon is awe-inspiring, but Athens is so much more than its ancient history. This city has an emerging art scene, rooftop bars with killer views, and neighborhoods like Plaka that are a photographer’s dream.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Athens
  4 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Kitchen Hand, Bartending.

Santorini

• Yes, Santorini is as picturesque as the postcards suggest—but it’s also an island full of surprises. Explore the volcanic caldera, hike from Fira to Oia, and, of course, time your dinner for that legendary sunset.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Santorini
  24 hours per week, 1 day off per week.
  Cleaning, Kitchen Hand, Housekeeping, Gardening.

Thessaloniki

• Known as Greece’s culinary capital, Thessaloniki will have you eating your way through its markets and tavernas.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Thessaloniki
  4 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Kitchen Hand (Breakfast Buffet Helper).

Crete (Heraklion)

• Crete is for adventurers. Whether you’re exploring the Palace of Knossos, hiking the Samaria Gorge, or getting lost in tiny mountain villages, this island will keep you on your toes (and well-fed).

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Crete
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Night Shift, Reception, Cleaning, Housekeeping.

Australia:

From the sunburnt Outback to the world’s best surfing beaches, it’s a land of epic road trips, unique wildlife (kangaroos, anyone?), and cities where brunch is practically a religion.

Sydney

• Sydney’s iconic Opera House and Harbour Bridge are just the beginning. Start your day surfing at Bondi Beach, climb the Harbour Bridge for panoramic views, and wind down with drinks in The Rocks. Don’t forget to take a ferry ride to Manly—it’s practically a rite of passage.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Sydney
  13 hours per week, 2 days off per week.
  Teaching Sports, Arts, Music, Party Promoter.

Melbourne

• Known for its hidden laneways, graffiti art, and coffee snobbery, Melbourne is the cultural capital of Australia.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Melbourne
  12 hours per week, 4 days off per week.
  Housekeeping, Reception, Cleaning.

Cairns

• Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, a heaven for divers and snorkelers. If you prefer dry land, the nearby Daintree Rainforest offers endless trails, waterfalls, and wildlife encounters. Pro tip: Try the local mud crab—it’s worth the mess.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Cairns
  8 hours per week, 3 days off per week.
  Reception, Night Shift, Housekeeping.

South Africa:

Whether you’re sipping wine in Stellenbosch or spotting lions on safari, South Africa serves up an adventure for every traveler.

Cape Town

• In Cape Town you can hike up Table Mountain for panoramic views, take a ferry to Robben Island to dive into history, or explore the streets of Bo-Kaap. By evening, relax at Camps Bay with a sundowner as the Atlantic sparkles.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Cape Town
  30 hours per week, 2 days off per week.
  Kitchen Hand, Bartending.

Costa Rica:

Costa Rica is nature’s greatest show-off. Whether you’re ziplining through lush rainforests, hiking active volcanoes, or chilling on pristine beaches, the country’s biodiversity is a jaw-dropping reminder of how wild and wonderful our planet can be.

San José

• While most people rush out of the capital, San José rewards the curious. Wander its markets, visit the National Theatre for a dose of colonial elegance, or dig into a plate of casado at a local soda (mom-and-pop diner). It’s also the perfect base for day trips to volcanoes like Poás or Irazú.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in San Jose
  32 hours per week, 4 days off per week.
  Reception.

Monteverde

• Suspended in the mist of cloud forests, Monteverde feels otherworldly. The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers and adventure-seekers alike—don’t skip the canopy bridges or a night hike to meet its nocturnal critters.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Monteverde
  32 hours per week, 2 days off per week.
  Administration, Reception.

Jaco

• Known for its surf scene and nightlife, Jaco is where travelers go to ride waves by day and sip cocktails by night.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Jaco
  5 hours per day, 1 day off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping, Administration, Reception.

Santa Teresa

• This boho beach town is a paradise for surfers and barefoot wanderers. Days start with yoga and coffee, followed by hours of sun, sea, and sand. When the sun sets, expect beachfront bonfires in Santa Teresa and a laid-back party vibe.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Santa Teresa
  30 hours per week, 1 day off per week.
  Cleaning, Administration, Reception.

Peru

From mist-shrouded ruins to turquoise mountain lakes, Peru is an adventurer’s dream come true.

Cusco

• Once the heart of the Inca Empire, Cusco is a blend of ancient stone streets and delicious markets.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Cusco
  25 hours per week, 2 days off per week.
  Kitchen Hand.

Lima

• Lima offers a mix of coastal cliffs, colonial architecture, and world-class food. Stroll along Miraflores, or try ceviche in the artsy Barranco district.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Lima
  5 hours per day, 1 day off per week.
  Tour Guide, Party Promoter, Administration, Reception.

Arequipa

• Surrounded by volcanoes, Arequipa stuns with its white stone architecture. It’s also the gateway to Colca Canyon, where condors rule the skies.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Arequipa
  5 hours per day, 2 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping, Reception, Bartending.

Huaraz

• Huaraz is a mountain lover’s paradise with access to epic hikes like Laguna 69. Its high-altitude charm is perfect for adrenaline junkies and nature enthusiasts.

• Best Hostel Work Exchange in Huaraz
  25 hours per week, 2 days off per week.
  Cleaning, Housekeeping, Administration, Reception.

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About the author: Matt Kiefer

Hey, I’m Matt, the founder behind Hostelgeeks.com. My team and I are collecting the absolute best hostels in the world for you. We share the coolest hostels so you can focus on your travels, rather than spending your time trying to pick a good hostel.

Personally, I’ve bunked in over 600 hostels and stamped my passport in more than 70 countries. My heart beats for Vietnam, Spain, and France, and so many more destinations. I’m a Foosball champ but a beer pong amateur.

Last but not least: Hostelgeeks is a proud ambassador of Hostelz.com.