How to Shop for Hostels in Canada

There are a wide range of hostels right across Canada. Hostels in Canada can be converted old houses, rooming houses, hotels, warehouses, farms or factories. Travelers can choose what type of hostel experience they want from small and intimate to large and busy.

When shopping for a hostel the first item to look for is the style of rooms.

Hostels can be a series of dormitory style rooms or single rooms or a combination of single rooms and dormitory style rooms. The single or sometimes called private rooms can be for 1 person, a couple, family of 3, 4, 5 or 6 people. The dormitory style rooms are usually from six to 20 beds in a very large shared room.

The second item to look for is the pricing for the hostel. Some hostels charge per person per night and some charge by the room. Usually the price for a dormitory style room is from $15 to 25 per night per person. Usually private rooms start at $40. for single rooms.

The prices for hostels in busy tourist locations like Whistler BC, Banff and Jasper Alberta and the larger cities like Vancouver, Toronto and Montreal are the most expensive. The smaller locations like Niagara Falls, Ottawa and Quebec are usually less expensive.

The third item when shopping for hostels in Canada are the facilities. Does the hostel have private bathrooms with the private rooms. Are lockers available. Does the hostel supply all the bedding materials and towels. Are pay phones available, internet access, computers, a TV room a shared kitchen. Are any meals supplied. Is laundry available.

The fourth item is location of the hostel. Is the location close to the attractions you wish to visit, on a public transportation route and in a safe neighborhood.

When shopping for Canadian hostels - travelers should make a list - type of room - price range - minimum facilities - location - when choosing hostels.

When choosing hostels try to find someone who has stayed at the hostel or has posted a travel diary and maybe pictures of the hostel. It is good to have a second opinion.

Hostels can be excellent meeting places for travelers to exchange tips, short cuts and savings. Experienced travelers who share information can help you see the best attractions and maybe for less. Hostels often have ads from local travel services and attractions.

I have stayed at the Backpackers Hostel in Niagara Falls. It is five minutes away from the old downtown and bus station and a healthy 25 minute walk from the Falls. The hostel has 2 TV rooms, clean baths, men's and women's dorms and private rooms. They also provide breakfast in the price for the room. I like and recommend this hostel.

Their toll free number is 1 800 891-7022.

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