I’ve stayed in dozens of hostels around the world, and one of the most common questions I get from hostel newbies is, “Do hostels have lockers?”
Safety is one of the biggest concerns in hostels, but thankfully, many hostels do have lockers where you can lock up your belongings. Some will only have small lockers for your most important belongings, and others will have lockers big enough for backpacks and even suitcases.
Keep reading to learn about lockers in hostels, whether or not you need to bring your own locks, and what you can do if you end up at a hostel without lockers.
Last updated: February 4, 2025
Published: January 28, 2024
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Looking for more information about staying in hostels?
- Amenities in Hostels
- Benefits of Staying in Hostels
- Hostel Safety for Solo Female Travelers
- Hostel Age Limits
- Lockers in Hostels
- Laundry in Hostels
- Packing List for Hostels
- Private Rooms in Hostels
- Toiletries in hostels
- What are hostels like?
Do Hostels Have Lockers?
While the specifics can vary, almost all hostels offer some form of locker to their guests. They provide a secure space for valuables and small items, ensuring you can explore their destinations without worrying about you valuables.
Typically, lockers are located in each room, so you can lock your items up near your bed in a dorm, allowing easy access to your stuff.
The type of locker can range from small boxes suitable for documents, money, electronics, and other valuable items to slightly larger compartments that store small backpacks or daypacks.
However, it’s rare to find lockers that can accommodate larger pieces of luggage, like checked bags, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Bring an extra lock for your suitcase or large backpack in case it doesn’t fit in a locker.
I always travel with two type of locks: a four digit combination lock (which are TSA-approved) and a spinning combination lock. The different sizes of locks always ensures I have one that will fit on different bags and lockers, and have an extra in case I lose one.
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Bringing Your Own Lock To A Hostel
Seasoned travelers like myself have some items we never travel without, especially backpackers who primarily stay in hostels. One common item is a personal lock or two. While many hostels provide lockers, a fair number do not provide locks, so you have to bring your own.
SOmetime hostels will let you buy or rent a lock to use during your stay, but I recommend bringing your own. By using your own lock, you maintain complete control over who has access to the key or combination.
When selecting a lock to bring along, consider a combination lock that eliminates the need to keep track of a key. Opt for one that is sturdy and tamper-resistant, ideally with a shackle that is thick enough to deter bolt cutters. If you prefer keyed locks, keep the key in a secure and consistent place on you to prevent loss.
I always travel with two type of locks: a four digit combination lock (which are TSA-approved) and a spinning combination lock. The different sizes of locks always ensures I have one that will fit on different bags and lockers, and have an extra in case I lose one.
If you want to know if a specific hostel has lockers, I recommend using Hostelworld, as they list what amenities each hostel has, including lockers, towels, and more.
How Big Are Hostel Lockers?
As you pack for your hostel adventure, it’s important to remember that locker sizes can greatly vary from one hostel to another.
Most hostels generally have lockers to hold a standard backpack or carry-on suitcase. However, securing larger items such as full-sized suitcases can be challenging, as these bulky bags may not fit in the provided spaces.
Consider using a smaller bag for your valuables, which you can place in the locker, and keep a larger suitcase in your room or under your bed.
This method ensures that your essential items are safely tucked away. At the same time, your less valuable belongings can stay in your room or a designated luggage area, often provided by the hostel for larger items that don’t fit in lockers. You can get a suitcase with a lock or bring an extra lock for it so everything stays safe, even if it’s not in a locker.
When booking, it can be beneficial to inquire about the dimensions of the lockers to plan your packing and ensure your most important possessions stay secure throughout your stay.
Lockers in Hostels Wrap Up
Keeping your belongings locked up in hostels is essential to ensure peace of mind on your travels. You should travel with a lock or two, use the lockers provided by hostels, and plan to lock your bag or suitcase if it doesn’t fit in a locker.
- A significant number of hostels offer locker facilities to safeguard your personal items.
- Travelers are often responsible for bringing their own locks, highlighting the importance of preparation.
- If you forget your own, many hostels provide options to rent or purchase locks.
- Consider the size of your luggage, as most hostel lockers may not accommodate large suitcases.
- For added security and convenience, consider traveling with bags with built-in locks or using individual locks for your luggage and locker.
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Lockers in Hostels FAQs
Do all hostels have lockers?
While most hostels provide lockers for guest use, it’s not a universal feature. Availability can vary widely depending on the hostel’s location, size, and the type of dormitory or room you’ve chosen. Always check with your hostel to ensure lockers are available to secure your belongings.
Should I bring my own lock to a hostel?
Bringing your own lock when staying in hostels is highly recommended, as this is typically not provided. A personal lock ensures that you always have security for your belongings. It’s a small item that can offer great peace of mind while you’re out exploring.
Can I rent or buy a lock at the hostel?
Some hostels offer the convenience of renting or buying locks, but this service is not guaranteed everywhere. Prices and quality may vary, so bringing your own lock could be the best option if you have specific security preferences or want to ensure availability.
Will the hostel’s lockers fit a large suitcase?
Hostel lockers are generally designed to fit standard backpacks and carry-on-size bags. Still, they might not have the capacity for large suitcases. If traveling with larger luggage, it’s advisable to check locker dimensions with the hostel beforehand or to be prepared to lock and store your suitcase in a designated luggage area if available.