Do Hostels Have Shampoo? Ultimate Guide to Toiletries in Hostels

Do Hostels Have Shampoo? Ultimate Guide to Toiletries in Hostels

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Do hostels have shampoo and other toiletries? If you are wondering what you need to pack for your next hostel stay, don’t fret. I have stayed in dozens of hostels across the globe, so I know a lot about what hostels offer in terms of toiletries.

If you are used to staying in hotels where all the essential toiletries are provided, you may be shocked to learn that many hostels don’t provide toiletries.

In this article, I have everything you need to know about hostel toiletries, including whether or not hostels have shampoo.

Published: March 8, 2024

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Here are some more helpful guides about staying in hostels:

So Are Toiletries Provided in Hostels?

Hostels are one of the most common parts of budget travel, offering a cheap place to stay and a social environment for solo travelers.

Hostels prioritize affordability, unlike hotels that typically provide a wide range of amenities.

The affordability may mean there are few amenities, including basic toiletries.

Shampoo can go either way. Some hostels provide it as a courtesy, while others don’t and expect you to bring it yourself.

When deciding what amenities to offer, hostels balance our convenience with operational costs.

Including complimentary shampoo is a choice that hostel owners weigh against other things that could improve their guests’ stay.

Understanding Hostel Amenities: What to Expect

Hostels cater to different types of travelers, so their amenities vary. Factors like location and budget affect what’s provided.

Some hostels, especially in tourist areas, like hotels, offer shampoo, while others, especially budget ones, may not. Boutique hostels usually offer more amenities, while basic ones focus on affordability. Some hostels, like eco-friendly ones, may not provide shampoo to support sustainability.

Before booking, check the hostel’s amenities and pack accordingly. You can easily find a list of amenities each hostel offers on HostelWorld. They have thousands of hostels worldwide that suit all budgets and styles.

Hostelworld has over 36,000 hostels in 170+ countries, and it’s my go-to for finding a fun and clean place to stay no matter where I travel.

Find a hostel on Hostelworld

Hostel Tips for Travelers

If you’re planning to stay in a hostel, managing your expectations regarding amenities like shampoo is a good idea. Here are some practical tips to ensure you’re well-prepared for your hostel experience:

  1. Check-in Advance: Before booking a hostel, visit their website or contact them to confirm if they provide shampoo and other personal care items. This information could be listed under the hostel’s amenities or FAQ sections. HostelWorld also makes it easy to see what amenities each hostel offers.
  2.  Bring Travel-Sized Containers: If you prefer to use your own shampoo or the hostel does not provide it, pack a small travel-sized bottle. They help save space and comply with airline liquid restrictions if you’re flying.
  3.  Consider Solid Shampoo Bars: Shampoo bars are a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to liquid shampoos. They are easy to pack, last long, and you won’t have to worry about potential leaks in your luggage.
  4.  Explore Local Options: Staying in hostels is often about embracing local experiences. You can always buy shampoo locally, allowing you to try different products you might not find at home. I love this option because it also gives you a chance to explore a local store, one of my favorite parts of traveling.
  5.  Be Prepared to Share: If your hostel provides shampoo in communal dispensers, be mindful of other guests. Use a reasonable amount and report any empty dispensers to hostel staff.
  6.  Leave No Trace: Particularly in hostels focused on sustainability, it’s important to be conscious of waste. Avoid throwing away half-used shampoo bottles, and consider taking them with you on the next leg of your journey. Or, if you are leaving shampoo behind, leave it in a communal shower for others to use.

I’ve left shampoo and other toiletries behind for others to use in communal showers when I am getting on a plane, and they are too big for me to take with me. I’ve also been grateful for shampoo offered by others when I’m in a pinch and don’t have any with me. It’s part of the community aspect of hostels that makes this possible.

Are You Packing Shampoo for Your Hostel Stay?

I always try to travel with basic toiletries in my bag if a hostel doesn’t provide any. If I don’t have any and the hostel does not offer it, I enjoy shopping at a local store to find some.

Shampoo is easy to find except in the most remote corners of the globe, so don’t fret if you end up at a hostel that doesn’t provide any.

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Do Hostels Have Shampoo FAQs

Do hostels provide towels along with shampoo?

Some hostels offer towels to their guests, either freely or for a small rental fee, while others expect guests to bring their own. It’s always best to check the hostel’s policy before your stay, or to be safe, pack a quick-drying travel towel just in case.

What other amenities can I expect in a hostel?

In addition to basic amenities, many hostels may offer communal kitchens, free Wi-Fi, lockers for valuables, bed linens, and even complimentary breakfasts. The range of facilities provided can vary greatly, so it’s wise to look up what’s included before booking your stay.

Is it common for hostels to have private bathrooms?

While hostels are traditionally known for their communal living spaces, including shared bathrooms, many hostels now offer private rooms with en-suite facilities. However, these options are usually priced higher than the standard dormitory accommodations.

Are hostels safe for storing personal items like shampoo?

Hostels generally take the security of their guests seriously and often provide secure storage options such as lockers. When it comes to personal items like shampoo, it’s typically fine to leave them in shared bathrooms if they’re not particularly valuable. Still, you should keep them in your bag or room for peace of mind.

Can I expect eco-friendly amenities at hostels?

Environmental consciousness is growing within the travel industry, and many hostels reflect this trend by offering eco-friendly amenities, such as biodegradable shampoos or recycling facilities. If this is an important factor for you, it’s worth seeking hostels aligning with these values.

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