Selecting your accommodations from halfway across the global can be a daunting task. Researching youth hostels before you traveling can help ease some traveler’s anxiety and can ensure that you pick the location that is perfect and matches your expectations of visiting Edinburgh. Due to the popularity of Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, you will be able to find a hostel that fits nearly any budget or preference. There are a few things you should focus upon when selecting your hostel to ensure your backpacking trip is as memorable and thrilling as you had hoped.

Many hostels in Edinburgh are known for being trendy and modern, focused on ensuring the backpacker’s stay is fun and unforgettable. Each hostel is different from the next one and different backpackers will have different preferences and budgets.

Location

While backpacking, accessibility is typically a very important aspect for a hostel. Is it located near a train station or bus stop? Are there forms of public transportation that will be able to minimize your walk to the location while carrying your heavy pack? The city of Edinburgh has numerous hostels that are situated across the metro portion of the city and into the outlying areas of Edinburgh.

There is a broad selection of hostels located in the centre of Edinburgh, allowing for the backpacker to be able to walk to almost all major tourist attractions in Edinburgh. Within the metro portion of the city, many of the hostels are located around Princes Street, the city’s main street, or within older portions of the city better focused upon Edinburgh’s medieval history. There are numerous hostels to chose from that are located in the heart of the historical old town portions of Edinburgh.

Facilities

The facilities at hostels in Edinburgh can range from an old converted church to a hip, modern and trendy hostel. Are you looking to enjoy the fast pace of modern day Edinburgh or are you looking to fall back in time and experience Edinburgh’s rich history?

A few hostels in Edinburgh do offer handicap accommodations. Many offer either a café, bar or restaurant. Several Edinburgh hostels do have laundry facilities available to guest. Security is a big concern for many backpackers and most hostels in Edinburgh offer lockers and luggage rooms.

Amenities

Hostels across Edinburgh offer a range of amenities. One of the most frequently asked question by backpackers are about rooms. Most hostels in Edinburgh offer both dormitory style rooms and private rooms. There are several hostels that are designed to accommodate large groups or families.

Nearly half of all Edinburgh hostels do offer internet access.

Only a few hostels include linens, blankets and towels in their price, so ask ahead of time or be prepared.

If you know that you be arriving at a late hour, plan to book your stay at a hostel in Edinburgh that offers 24-hour check in and check out access. Additionally, if you know that you will be going out for a night on the town, select a hostel that does not have a curfew, so you’ll never have to worry about being locked out.