#Visitor review
Whenever possible, you should check visitor’s review. They’re the best source of information_no matter what the website or advertised text says about the hostel, you can easily notice a crappy or bad hostel by the negative reviews. Websites like TripAdvisor and HosteWorld have many real customer reviews so you should visit these sites before you choose. Do not get every complain too seriously (bad things sometimes occur, and some people are never happy).
#Bathrooms
A backpacker might have a day or 2 on train and airports travel before arriving at a hostel. Then each day you will have to walk a lot, more often in dusty and hot streets. Because of this, taking a bath is imperative for your sanity (double the importance for girls). So decent bathrooms are one-of-the most imperative thing in a hostel.
#Location
A good hostel location should be easily reached and accessible from the rail/bus station or airport depending on_where your arrive and from_where you leave. A hostel that is too far located or hard to find can waste much of your money and time.
#Food
Many hostels provide free pasta, free breakfast etc. The advantage of this simply depends on your destination (if visiting a country with low prices and standards, you might safely avoid this as a selection criterion as you will be able to access tasty meals for cheap anywhere).If visiting an expensive country, free breakfast happens to be an important bonus.
#Owners
Family owned hostels are highly preferred to budget hotels or hostel chains. Hostels that are owned by small family have better atmosphere & usually treat their visitors with a-lot-more attention. The best choice is to get a hostel that is owned by experienced backpacker (as they know how best to serve you and what you require during your stay).
#Check-in/check-out times
In most scenarios check-in & check-out are around 12.00 o’clock. It is often an advantage if_you can check-in earlier.
#Baggage storage and lockers
If you’ve to arrive prior check-in or leave after check out time it is always advisable to leave your luggage in the hostel so as you can enjoy some quality time outside without carrying heavy back pack.
#Internet connection
Always prefer hostels that have free internet installed and preferably have a central room with computers(unless you bring a tablet or a laptop with you).
#Book in advance
There is something cool about staying in-the-hostel you wanted to. There is something extremely uncomfortable about not staying in-the-hostel you wanted to. To ensure you do not find out how exactly un-cool it’s, make sure you book a hostel in advance.