What Families Should Know About Staying in a Hostel in Jerusalem

What Families Should Know About Staying in a Hostel in Jerusalem

If you are a parent choosing to introduce your children to the world and other cultures through international travel, then you are probably interested in any and all methods for saving money in other countries. One often overlooked way to save money, especially in cities such as Jerusalem, is to have your family stay in a hostel. Now you are probably thinking – aren’t hostels for backpackers and forever-travellers? While it is true many backpackers and travellers do choose hostels as their primary accommodation choice, this certainly doesn’t mean that families aren’t welcome. In fact, one of the main aspects people love about staying in hostels is how personable and family-like the setting is as opposed to hotels where everyone keeps to themselves. Here are some tips for parents travelling with children, whether they are toddlers or teenagers, on what they should know about staying in a hostel:

Tip #1: Plan Ahead

Just like with other accommodation, it’s best to book your room in advance. For example, in Jerusalem, the hostel scene is relatively new and modern. Therefore, you should have no problem finding a hostel that offers private rooms for you and your family, rather than dorm rooms where many different travellers share a room and sleep on bunk beds. Private rooms in a hostel will most likely still be cheaper than a hotel, but it’s best to book your room ahead of time to ensure you get a spot since there are much fewer private room options.

Tip #2: Save Money by Cooking In

One of the best ways to save money by staying in a hostel isn’t just with the cheap room rate, but also the fact that most Jerusalem hostels will have a big shared kitchen where you can cook, store food, and eat-in. You will save money and probably save calories as well! Also, cooking-in gives you and your family the unique opportunity experience shopping at a local market and cooking with new and exciting ingredients – or possibly just making a familiar meal and giving your kids a break from trying new dishes.

Tip #3: Do a Load of Laundry

Many hostels offer (coin-operated) laundry machines, or have connections to local Laundromats which offer services at a reasonable rate. By planning on doing a load or two of laundry, you will be able to pack less saving on luggage fees at the airport and saving the time required to lug around heavy bags as well as children.

Tip #4: Safety

The primary concern for parents about travelling with their children is safety. But you can rest assured that many hostels in Jerusalem also prioritize safety, offering safes for valuables, locks on doors, and employees on duty 24 hours a day. Despite a bad rap, hostels are actually very safe and a great way to meet down-to-earth people who are always willing to help you out in a time of need.

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Tags: Jerusalem

Category: Family Fun, Guest Post