25 Top Tips for Finding the Best Hostels for Solo Female Travelers: Social and Safe
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When I was planning my very first solo trip, one of the biggest questions on my mind was: Where the heck do I stay?
I didn’t want to be completely alone in a hotel room, but I also didn’t want to end up in a loud party hostel with beer pong tables and EDM echoing through the walls at 2 a.m.
Sound familiar?
Finding the best hostels for solo female travelers is all about striking the right balance — safe, but not sterile. Social, but not wild. A place where you can meet people, feel welcome, and actually get some sleep.
And yes, those places absolutely exist.
Over the years, I’ve stayed in dozens of hostels across Europe, Asia, and the Americas—some fantastic, some… not so much. But along the way, I’ve figured out what really makes a hostel feel like home for a solo female traveler.
In this post, I’ll walk you through exactly how to find hostels that are both social AND safe, plus share some of my favorite picks and tips for meeting people (without needing to shotgun a beer first).
Whether you’re a first-time backpacker or a seasoned solo adventurer, I hope this guide gives you the confidence to book the kind of stay that makes your trip unforgettable — in the best way.
P.S. Are you just starting your solo travel journey? Check out my ultimate guide to solo female travel for all of my best tips and tricks on staying safe and having the adventure of your life.
Are Hostels Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
If you’re wondering whether hostels are safe for solo female travelers, the answer is yes.
The best hostels for solo female travelers are designed with safety, comfort, and connection in mind. But like anything in travel, a little research goes a long way.
I’ve stayed in hostels across multiple continents — some with dreamy rooftop terraces and built-in community, and others that… didn’t quite make the highlight reel.
Over time, I’ve learned how to spot hostels that are both welcoming and safe for women traveling alone.
Here’s what I recommend checking before you book a room:
- Reviews from other female travelers – If women consistently say they felt safe and supported, that’s a green light.
- Lockers or secure storage – Bring a travel lock so you can store your valuables stress-free.
- Central location – Staying somewhere well-connected and well-lit makes a big difference, especially if you’re arriving after dark.
The truth is, most hostels are filled with kind, curious travelers just like you.
If you’re smart about where you stay and trust your instincts, hostel travel can be one of the most empowering parts of your solo journey.
Want more tips on how to feel safe and confident when you’re traveling solo? Check out my post on 30+ smart safety tips for solo female travelers.
What Makes a Hostel Great for Solo Female Travelers?
When it comes to the best hostels for solo female travelers, it’s not just about the price or location — it’s about how a place feels.
Is it warm and welcoming? Does it make you feel safe the moment you walk in? Are there common spaces that invite connection, or are you left scrolling your phone in a dark bunk?
After years of solo travel, I’ve found that the best hostels share a few key things in common — and they have nothing to do with free shots or pub crawls.
1. Women Only Dorms — If That’s What You Prefer
Having the option to book a female-only dorm can be a game-changer, especially if it’s your first solo trip or you’re looking for a little extra peace of mind.
These rooms often feel quieter and more relaxed, and can offer a sense of community with other female travelers.
But here’s the thing: you don’t have to stay in a female dorm to feel safe or make friends.
Personally, I’ve had some of my best hostel experiences in mixed dorms — where conversations happen naturally and everyone’s just excited to be there.
It’s all about what makes you feel comfortable.
2. Inviting Common Spaces
The heart of any good hostel is its common spaces.
Think: a cozy lounge with board games, a sun-drenched rooftop with hammocks, or a shared kitchen where travelers swap recipes and stories.
These spaces make it easy to meet people — even if you’re not the most extroverted person in the room.
When I’m choosing where to stay, I always check the photos and reviews to see if the hostel has places that feel lived-in and communal.
3. Social Events Without the Pressure
I love a hostel that gets people together without expecting you to party until 4 a.m. Things like:
- Group dinners or cooking nights
- Free walking tours
- Trivia, yoga, or movie nights
These kinds of activities are perfect for solo travelers wanting to beat solo travel loneliness—they create space for connection, without requiring you to drink or be the life of the room.
4. Safety Features That Let You Relax
Some hostels just feel safe — and that’s usually thanks to a few thoughtful details:
- Secure lockers (bring your own lock!)
- Well-lit entrances and hallways
- Key cards or codes for room access
- Friendly, available staff who make you feel seen and supported
These are small things, but together they make a big difference — especially when you’re navigating a new city on your own.
5. Reviews That Reflect Your Travel Style
Never underestimate the power of reviews — especially ones from other solo female travelers.
I look for comments about safety, cleanliness, ease of meeting people, and overall vibe.
If multiple people mention that it felt welcoming, relaxed, and perfect for solo travelers, I know I’ve probably found a winner.
If the word “party” shows up a dozen times? I keep scrolling.
Bottom Line?
The best hostels don’t just give you a bed — they give you a place where you feel like you belong.
Whether that’s in a quiet female dorm or a bustling mixed room with new friends from around the world, the key is finding a place that fits your style of solo travel.
How to Tell if a Hostel is Social — but Not a Party Hostel
If you’ve ever ended up in a party hostel by accident, you know the signs: thumping music, spilled beer in the hallway, and someone trying to get you to do tequila shots five minutes after check-in.
It’s not exactly the cozy, social experience most solo female travelers are after.
The good news? There are plenty of hostels that strike the perfect balance — places where you can meet people, have fun, and still get a solid night’s sleep.
Here’s how to spot them.
1. Pay Attention to the Description
Most hostel listings give away their vibe if you know what to look for.
Phrases like “great for solo travelers,” “laid-back atmosphere,” and “cozy communal spaces” are good signs. On the flip side, anything that mentions bar crawls, pub nights, or “perfect for partying” is probably one to skip.
It’s not about avoiding fun — it’s about finding the kind of fun that fits your energy.
2. Look for Social, Low-Key Events
The best hostels for solo female travelers often host events that make it easy to meet people without pressure.
Think walking tours, game nights, cooking classes, or shared dinners. These kinds of activities are great for creating community, especially if you’re introverted or not into nightlife.
Bonus points if they happen in the hostel’s common spaces rather than at bars.
3. Dive Into the Reviews
Reviews are where the real truth lives. Search for keywords like “quiet,” “friendly,” “not a party hostel,” or “felt safe as a solo female traveler.”
If people say they met friends but still got sleep? That’s exactly what you’re looking for.
Also, check the overall vibe mentioned by other female travelers — it’s usually a solid preview of your own experience.
4. Examine the Common Areas
Photos can be really telling. Hostels with inviting kitchens, lounges, or gardens are often designed with connection in mind.
If every photo is of a bar or people drinking, chances are the social scene skews party-heavy.
You’re looking for a place that encourages community, not chaos.
5. Smaller Size = Stronger Community
While big hostels can be fun, smaller ones tend to be better for building real connections. With fewer people, it’s easier to recognize faces and start conversations that turn into friendships.
That doesn’t mean you should rule out large hostels — but it’s something to keep in mind if your goal is social but chill.
Still with me? Let’s move into how to actually find and book these gems next.
Best Booking Sites & How to Search Like a Pro
Now that you know what to look for in a hostel, the next step is figuring out where to find them.
Thankfully, there are a few platforms that make it easy to book hostels that are safe, social, and solo female traveler-approved.
Here’s how I search like a pro — and how you can too.
Hostelworld
Hostelworld is my go-to for a reason. It’s one of the most comprehensive platforms for hostel bookings and makes it easy to compare vibe, cleanliness, and value.
While it doesn’t have filters specifically for solo travelers or women, you can see the age range and gender of each reviewer. This makes it easy to find feedback from other solo female travelers — and trust me, that insight is gold.
I always check the “atmosphere” and “security” ratings, then dive into reviews to get a feel for the hostel’s vibe. If people mention meeting other travelers, feeling safe, and loving the communal areas, it’s usually a good bet.
Booking.com
While not hostel-specific, Booking.com often lists smaller boutique hostels or guesthouses that don’t show up on Hostelworld.
It’s especially useful if you’re looking for a private room but still want that social energy. Many listings even call out if a place is popular with solo travelers.
Look for ratings in categories like location and staff — they’re a solid indicator of how supported you’ll feel during your stay.
Expedia
Expedia might not be the first platform that comes to mind for hostels, but it’s worth checking—especially for budget-friendly private rooms or last-minute deals.
While it doesn’t specialize in hostels, Expedia often features smaller hotels, guesthouses, and even hostel-style stays (especially in Europe and Asia) that may not appear on Hostelworld. Plus, their reward points system and occasional promo codes can help stretch your budget even further.
When using Expedia, I recommend using filters like “guest rating” and sorting by price to find hidden gems. Make sure to read through the reviews to see if other solo travelers have stayed there—and whether they felt safe and welcomed.
Instagram and Google
Once I have a shortlist, I always Google the hostel or check their Instagram. It gives me a much better idea of the actual vibe than just the booking site photos.
Does it look clean and relaxed? Are people hanging out in common spaces or exploring the city together? Or is it all club pics and red solo cups?
Trust your gut here. If the hostel feels aligned with your energy, that’s a good sign.
Reddit, Facebook Groups, and Blogs
Some of the best recommendations I’ve ever gotten have come from solo female travel Facebook groups and Reddit threads.
Search “best hostels for solo female travelers in [city]” and you’ll often find real, recent experiences from people who travel just like you.
Bonus: posts often include candid pros and cons that booking platforms leave out.
Airbnb (Sometimes)
If you’re looking for a break from the dorm life, a private room in an Airbnb can be a nice change of pace.
Look for Superhosts, plenty of recent reviews, and walkable locations. Some listings even mention being solo-travel-friendly, which is always a plus.
That said, if your priority is meeting people, a social hostel is still your best bet.
My Favorite Hostels for Solo Female Travelers
I’ve stayed in my fair share of hostels over the years — from tiny mountain guesthouses to buzzing city hubs. And while not every one has been a hit, there are a few that I still think about long after I’ve left.
If you’re looking for safe, social, and genuinely memorable places to stay, these are some of the best hostels for solo female travelers I’ve personally experienced.
Lisbon Lounge Hostel – Lisbon, Portugal
I absolutely loved staying at Lisbon Lounge Hostel. It’s right in the heart of the city’s historic Baixa district, making it super easy to walk to top attractions and hop on public transport.
This award-winning hostel (Hoscars’ Best Small Hostel in the World, 2011!) offers mixed and women-only dorms, free walking tours, bike rentals, and even three-course dinners cooked by a Portuguese chef. It’s the perfect way to meet fellow travelers while traveling solo in Lisbon without needing to go out bar hopping.
The atmosphere here is warm and welcoming, and the staff are amazing. I stayed in a mixed dorm and felt completely safe and at ease.
St. Christopher’s Edinburgh Original – Edinburgh, Scotland
My favorite hostel stay in Edinburgh was at St. Christopher’s Edinburgh Original. It’s right in the heart of the medieval Old Town, just steps from the Royal Mile and across from Waverley Station, which is ideal if you’re arriving by train.
It was so easy to explore the city on foot, from the National Galleries to Edinburgh Castle. The staff were incredibly friendly, and the dorm rooms were bright, clean, and secure, with under-bed lockers to keep your stuff safe.
There’s a bar downstairs that’s buzzy but not too rowdy, and they offer discounts for guests along with a budget-friendly breakfast.
Wombat’s City Hostel – London, UK
I’ve stayed in quite a few hostels across London, but my favorite has been Wombat’s City Hostel. It’s tucked into a quieter corner of East London near Tower Bridge — close to the action, but far enough to get a good night’s sleep.
The hostel itself is clean, modern, and friendly, with secure lockers and a cozy bar where it’s easy to meet other travelers. They offer both mixed and female dorms, and I felt safe and welcome here.
Yak Lake House – Bacalar, Mexico
Out of all the places I stayed in Mexico, Yak Lake House in Bacalar was hands-down my favorite hostel.
It has a relaxed, social vibe with lakeside beach chairs, hammocks, and its very own dock for sunrise views over the glowing turquoise lagoon. It’s one of those places where you meet people without even trying — whether it’s over a drink at the bar or an impromptu kayaking session.
They offer both private rooms and mixed dorms. I felt comfortable, safe, and immediately at home.
Dreamsea Surf Camp – Uluwatu, Bali
Dreamsea isn’t a typical hostel, but if you’re open to something a little different, this surf camp perched on the cliffs of Uluwatu is magic and one of my favorite places I stayed with traveling alone in Bali.
There are a few room types available —Suite Rooms, Ensuite Twin Rooms, and Twin Rooms — and most are booked by the bed, meaning you’ll share with one other traveler if you’re going solo. That’s what I did, and I lucked out with a lovely roommate!
What makes Dreamsea amazing is the vibe: oceanside yoga, a private beach, group dinners, and the option to surf with an instructor or just hang out and soak in the sun.
It’s more of a chill, barefoot-luxury kind of social — ideal if you want a little more comfort without losing that community feeling.
KEX Hostel – Reykjavík, Iceland
Set inside a former biscuit factory, KEX is quirky, stylish, and one of the best places to stay in Reykjavík for solo travelers.
It’s a larger hostel, but still feels grounded and social. I stayed in a mixed dorm and ended up meeting a group of adventurous travelers I instantly clicked with. Everyone had that curious, open energy that makes solo travel feel like a shared adventure.
There’s a lively bar and lounge, plus a great on-site restaurant and a cozy library. It’s also conveniently located just outside Reykjavík’s bus ban zone, so you can be picked up for day tours without hauling your luggage through the cold.
Bonus: Iceland is also one of my top destinations for first-time solo female travelers!
Each of these hostels felt like a mini home on the road — safe, social, and full of people who were just as excited to explore as I was.
Whether you’re after sunrise views, city-center convenience, or laid-back beach vibes, there’s something here for every solo female traveler.
Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers Staying in Hostels
Safety is one of the biggest concerns for solo female travelers — and for good reason. But here’s the truth: most hostels are safe, especially when you know what to look for and trust your instincts.
Here are some of my tried-and-true travel tips for staying safe (and stress-free) while enjoying everything hostels have to offer.
1. Bring a lock (and use it!)
Most hostels offer lockers, but they don’t always provide a lock. I always carry a small combination lock in my bag. It gives me peace of mind knowing my valuables are secured, especially in a shared room.
2. Choose the bed that makes you feel safe
I usually go for a bottom bunk near the wall if I can — it feels a bit more tucked away.
If something about the room doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to ask to switch beds — or even dorms. You’re never “being difficult” for wanting to feel comfortable.
3. Don’t overshare with strangers
Meeting people is part of the hostel experience, but you don’t have to share every detail of your travel plans with someone you just met. I keep it vague until I’ve gotten a better sense of the person.
If you’re ever feeling unsure, remove yourself from the situation. Head to a common area, check in with a friend, or talk to hostel staff. You can always ask to move rooms if you need to.
4. Save important numbers and know the local emergency info
It’s a good idea to save the local emergency number in your phone ahead of time. I also try to keep a screenshot of my hostel’s address and phone number — just in case I need it quickly.
Honestly, I’m still trying to get better at this, but it makes a difference when things don’t go according to plan.
5. Keep someone in the loop
Let a friend or family member know where you’re staying. Drop them your hostel name, address, and check-in dates. I usually send a quick “made it!” message when I arrive — plus the occasional photo from a bunk bed window.
6. Trust your gut
This is the big one. If something doesn’t feel right — whether it’s the location, the energy of the room, or a fellow guest — it’s okay to make a change. Your safety matters more than anything.
How to Meet People Without Going to a Party Hostel
One of the best parts of solo travel? You’re never really alone — especially if you stay somewhere social. But here’s the thing: you don’t have to party hard to make friends on the road.
In fact, some of my most meaningful travel connections happened over breakfast, not beers.
If you’re looking for low-key ways to meet people at a hostel, here are a few that have worked for me time and time again.
1. Hang out in the common areas
This one might sound obvious, but I can’t count how many spontaneous conversations I’ve had just by sitting in the lounge or kitchen with a cup of tea and my journal.
Even if you’re not actively trying to strike up a conversation, just being around other travelers makes it easier to chat when the moment feels right.
Bonus tip: put your phone away. It signals you’re open to connection, and sometimes that’s all it takes.
2. Join the hostel’s social events
Even at quiet hostels, you’ll often find group dinners, movie nights, walking tours, or casual happy hours.
These kinds of events are ideal for solo travelers. There’s a shared activity to break the ice, but zero pressure to “perform” or keep up with a party crowd.
3. Start small conversations
If you’re in a dorm or kitchen, a simple “Hey, where are you from?” goes a long way. I used to feel awkward making the first move, but honestly — everyone’s in the same boat.
Solo travelers are usually open to connection. You just have to be brave for ten seconds.
4. Sign up for a group day tour
If your hostel offers or recommends local tours, take advantage. A cooking class, a hike, or a bike ride can be a great way to meet people with similar interests — especially if the vibe at your hostel is quieter.
You can always ask fellow hostel guests if they want to join too.
5. Don’t stress if you don’t click right away
Some hostels are full of instant best friends. Others are quieter or attract more couples. That’s okay.
It doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong. Sometimes the connections come in the next city — or on your very last night.
Solo travel is full of these unexpected moments. Be open, be kind, and don’t force it.
FAQs: Staying in Hostels as a Solo Female Traveler
Are hostels safe for solo female travelers?
Yes — most hostels are completely safe, especially when you choose well-reviewed places and trust your instincts. Look for hostels with good ratings, lockers for your stuff, and reviews from other solo female travelers.
I’ve stayed in dozens of hostels around the world and rarely felt unsafe. That said, if something feels off, you’re never stuck. You can always switch rooms or even leave early.
Should I stay in a female-only dorm?
Female-only dorms can be great if they make you feel more comfortable — especially on your first solo trip. They tend to be a little quieter, and some women just prefer the dynamic.
That said, you definitely don’t have to. I’ve had some of my best hostel experiences and made great friends in mixed dorms. Go with what feels right for you in the moment.
What if I don’t want to party?
You’re not alone — lots of solo travelers feel the same way. Not every hostel is a party hostel, and many actually lean toward chill, community-focused vibes.
Look for hostels with common spaces, group dinners, or walking tours instead of bar crawls. Reading reviews carefully will help you find that social-but-not-wild energy.
What’s better for solo female travelers: hotel, hostel, or Airbnb?
It depends on your travel style. Hostels are usually the best for meeting people and saving money. Hotels offer more privacy, and Airbnb is great if you need your own space or a break from dorm life.
For solo female travelers, I usually recommend hostels with good reviews and a friendly vibe — especially if it’s your first trip. You get connection, safety, and flexibility all in one place.
How do I find hostels that are social but not chaotic?
Start by reading reviews on Hostelworld or Booking.com. Look for comments like “easy to meet people,” “laid-back vibe,” or “felt safe as a solo traveler.” Avoid listings that mention bar crawls or late-night noise unless that’s your thing.
You can also check Instagram or Facebook to get a feel for the hostel’s community and activities before you book.
Is Airbnb safer than a hostel for women traveling alone?
Not necessarily — both can be safe if you do your homework. With Airbnb, you’ll want to choose Superhosts, check recent reviews, and make sure the location works well for a solo traveler.
Personally, I often feel safer in hostels. There’s usually staff on-site, a sense of community, and the opportunity to meet other travelers if something goes wrong or I just need help.
How do I deal with sharing a room with strangers?
It can feel weird at first, but you get used to it quickly. I recommend packing earplugs, an eye mask, and a travel lock for your locker.
Most dormmates are respectful, and you might even make friends with the person in the bunk next to you. And if it’s not working out, you can usually switch rooms or upgrade to a private.
What if I don’t meet anyone?
It happens — but less often than you’d think. Hostels are naturally social spaces, and even small interactions in the kitchen or dorm can turn into a day trip buddy or a new friend.
And remember: it’s okay to have solo moments, too. That’s part of the magic of traveling on your own — you get to do it on your terms.
Final Thoughts: Your Perfect Hostel Is Out There
At the end of the day, the best hostels for solo female travelers aren’t about luxury or Instagrammable views (though those are nice). They’re about how a place makes you feel — safe, welcomed, and part of something, even if just for a night.
Whether you’re staying in a cozy mixed dorm, a quiet female-only room, or a beachside bungalow with strangers who become friends, your hostel experience can shape your entire trip.
Trust your gut. Read the reviews. Follow the energy that feels right for you.
Solo travel is full of moments that stretch you, surprise you, and connect you with people you never expected. And a great hostel? It’s often where that magic begins.
If you’re still not sure where to start, I’d love to help. You can download my free Solo Female Travel Guide for extra safety tips, packing lists, and destination ideas — or check out my custom travel planning services to get a personalized hostel rec (and so much more).
You’ve got this. Your solo adventure is waiting.
