10 More Things To Look For When Backpacking In Sydney

Maze Backpackers - Monday, March 07, 2011

Before you come to Sydney on your backpacking holiday, you will find many backpackers online by just searching “backpackers Sydney”, but how do you know which ones are good and which are not. Here is a guide to find the best backpacker for you.

Price. Price ranges can vary and you should look for a location that will offer you group discounts or a discount on price if you stay longer.

Network. A good backpackers will be a part of a network, sometimes these networks offer 10% discount on their room rates and this is a good way to see if they have minimum standards.

Languages. Australia is a multicultural society. There should be someone that can help you or at least point you in the right direction if English is not your first language. You will be surprised that there are already many people from your country living and working in Australia.

Tours and tips. Sydney hostels should be offering you discounts if you are booking through them, and at least guarantee that you are being put in the hands of professionals. They should have experience and know where the best places for you to go and see. They should also be able to give you a range of options based on what you are looking for. Australia is very open minded country -- don't be afraid to ask.

Travel arrangements. You should expect to find out more than local knowledge if your hostel is any good. They should be able to give you advice and help you with travel arrangements to your next destination.

Internal activities. Activities in the hostel keep it lively and make it easier to meet people staying with you. Backpacking at fun hostels can really change the way you feel about travelling on a budget. Good and popular points attract the most visitors and this will be a good source of travelling information for you. Go with the crowd and find like minded people.

Photos. Sounds a little strange, but photos of the fun that people had before you is a good way to know where you are about to stay before you go.

Medical. Someone in the hostel should have knowledge of first aid and their should be the appropriate first aid kits. They are not there to play hospital but if something happens you should know that you will be taken care of.

Free services. Free Wifi for guests is an absolute must, and look for accommodation that has other free services such as kitchen and laundry that you can use at little cost. See what is included in your deal.

24 hour. Security and services are very important. With a large volume of traffic it is important that the location has everything on watch and there is someone to speak to in case of an incident.

Level of care and friendliness. You are on holiday and if people treat you better and you feel happy to meet them, that is where you should stay. Good service with a friendly and helpful attitude is a must. All service does not have to be about getting an extra buck out of you.

Generally speaking, Sydney hostels (and the rest of Australia) are very good, but the fact remains that some are much more popular than others. Some are the quiet type and others are more for people looking to party and socialise. Do some research and make sure you are getting what you paid for.