5 Best Southeast Asia Hostels Review

Southeast Asia Hostels Overview For Budget Travelers

Alright, so you're planning a backpacking trip through Southeast Asia? Awesome! One of the biggest expenses you'll face is accommodation. But don't worry, Southeast Asia is a haven for budget travelers, and hostels are your best friend. They offer a cheap place to crash, a social atmosphere, and often, valuable travel tips from fellow adventurers. This isn't just about saving money; it's about community, shared experiences, and sometimes, finding your travel tribe. Let's dive into the top 5 hostels that will make your trip unforgettable without emptying your wallet.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Hostel

Before we get into the specific hostels, let's quickly touch on what makes a good hostel. These are the things I look for:

• Location: Is it central? Close to public transport? Near the attractions you want to see?
• Atmosphere: Is it a party hostel? A chill one? A mix of both?
• Cleanliness: Let's be honest, nobody wants to sleep in a dirty room.
• Amenities: Free Wi-Fi is a must. Breakfast is a bonus. Laundry facilities are super helpful.
• Price: Obviously, you're on a budget. But don't just go for the cheapest option. Sometimes, paying a little more gets you a lot more.
• Reviews: Check Hostelworld, Booking.com, and other sites for recent reviews.

#1: The Mad Monkey Hostel, Phnom Penh, Cambodia - Best Party Hostel in Cambodia

If you're looking for a party, Mad Monkey is the place to be. They're a chain of hostels throughout Southeast Asia, and the Phnom Penh location is particularly known for its lively atmosphere. Expect rooftop bars, pool parties, and nightly events.

Mad Monkey Phnom Penh Features and Amenities

• Dorms and Private Rooms: Offers both dorms (mixed and female-only) and private rooms.
• Rooftop Bar: A major draw. Great views, cheap drinks, and a constant party vibe.
• Swimming Pool: Perfect for cooling off during the day.
• Restaurant: Serves decent food at reasonable prices.
• Travel Desk: Can help you book tours and transportation.
• Social Events: Daily events like pub crawls, beer pong tournaments, and themed nights.

Mad Monkey Phnom Penh Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Amazing social atmosphere.
• Great rooftop bar and pool.
• Helpful travel desk.

Cons:

• Can be noisy, especially at night.
• Not the cleanest hostel.
• Not ideal if you're looking for a quiet place to stay.

Mad Monkey Phnom Penh Pricing and Availability

Dorms typically range from $8-$15 per night. Private rooms are more expensive, usually around $30-$50 per night. Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Mad Monkey Phnom Penh: Who Is It For?

This hostel is perfect for solo travelers and backpackers who want to party and meet new people. If you're looking for a quiet, relaxing experience, this isn't the place for you.

#2: Lub d Bangkok Siam, Thailand - Best Overall Hostel in Bangkok

Lub d is another popular chain, and their Siam Square location in Bangkok is consistently ranked as one of the best hostels in the city. It's clean, modern, and well-located.

Lub d Bangkok Siam Features and Amenities

• Modern Design: Clean and stylish interiors.
• Dorms and Private Rooms: Offers a variety of dorm options, including female-only, and well-appointed private rooms.
• Social Area: Comfortable common area for relaxing and meeting other travelers.
• Laundry Facilities: Coin-operated washing machines and dryers.
• Travel Information: Helpful staff and plenty of information about Bangkok.
• Security: Key card access and lockers.

Lub d Bangkok Siam Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Excellent location near Siam Square.
• Clean and modern facilities.
• Good security.

Cons:

• Can be a bit pricey compared to other hostels.
• Less of a party atmosphere than Mad Monkey.

Lub d Bangkok Siam Pricing and Availability

Dorms range from $15-$25 per night. Private rooms are around $50-$80 per night. Book well in advance, especially during peak season.

Lub d Bangkok Siam: Who Is It For?

This hostel is great for travelers who want a comfortable, clean, and well-located base in Bangkok. It's suitable for both solo travelers and couples.

#3: Hanoi Backpackers' Hostel, Vietnam - Best Social Hostel in Hanoi

Hanoi Backpackers' Hostel is a legendary hostel in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter. It's known for its lively atmosphere, cheap beer, and helpful staff.

Hanoi Backpackers' Hostel Features and Amenities

• Central Location: Right in the heart of the Old Quarter.
• Dorms and Private Rooms: Offers a range of dorms, from small to large, and basic private rooms.
• Bar and Restaurant: Serves cheap drinks and Vietnamese food.
• Tour Booking: Can help you book tours to Ha Long Bay, Sapa, and other destinations.
• Free Beer Hour: A great way to meet other travelers.

Hanoi Backpackers' Hostel Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Amazing location.
• Very social atmosphere.
• Cheap drinks.

Cons:

• Can be noisy.
• Basic facilities.

Hanoi Backpackers' Hostel Pricing and Availability

Dorms are very affordable, ranging from $5-$10 per night. Private rooms are around $20-$30 per night. Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Hanoi Backpackers' Hostel: Who Is It For?

This hostel is perfect for budget travelers who want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hanoi's Old Quarter and meet other backpackers.

#4: Spacepod@com, Singapore - Best Capsule Hostel in Singapore

Singapore can be expensive, but Spacepod@com offers a unique and affordable accommodation option: capsule beds. It's a great way to save money without sacrificing comfort and privacy.

Spacepod@com Features and Amenities

• Capsule Beds: Each capsule has its own light, fan, and power outlet.
• Shared Bathrooms: Clean and well-maintained.
• Common Area: A small area for relaxing and socializing.
• Free Wi-Fi: Essential for staying connected.
• Lockers: For storing your belongings.

Spacepod@com Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Affordable for Singapore.
• Private and comfortable capsules.
• Clean facilities.

Cons:

• Limited social interaction.
• Can feel a bit cramped.

Spacepod@com Pricing and Availability

Capsules range from $25-$40 per night. Book well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly.

Spacepod@com: Who Is It For?

This hostel is ideal for solo travelers who want an affordable and private place to stay in Singapore.

#5: Reggae Mansion Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - Best Themed Hostel in Kuala Lumpur

Reggae Mansion is a themed hostel in Kuala Lumpur that's known for its unique design and lively atmosphere. It's a fun and social place to stay.

Reggae Mansion Features and Amenities

• Reggae Theme: Decorated with reggae-inspired art and music.
• Dorms and Private Rooms: Offers a variety of dorms and private rooms.
• Rooftop Bar: A great place to enjoy a drink and meet other travelers.
• Movie Room: For relaxing and watching films.
• Travel Desk: Can help you book tours and transportation.

Reggae Mansion Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unique and fun atmosphere.
• Good location near Bukit Bintang.
• Social rooftop bar.

Cons:

• Can be noisy at night.
• Not the cleanest hostel.

Reggae Mansion Pricing and Availability

Dorms range from $10-$20 per night. Private rooms are around $30-$50 per night. Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Reggae Mansion: Who Is It For?

This hostel is great for travelers who want a fun and social place to stay in Kuala Lumpur. If you're a fan of reggae music, you'll love it!

Comparing Hostel Types and Key Features

Let's break down the hostel types and compare their key features:

Hostel Product Recommendations For Southeast Asia Travel

Beyond the hostels themselves, here are some products I always recommend to fellow travelers heading to Southeast Asia:

• Travel Backpack: Osprey Farpoint 40 (Great for carry-on) - $160
• Travel Adapter: Universal Travel Adapter (With USB ports) - $25
• Quick-Drying Towel: Microfiber Travel Towel - $15
• Headlamp: Black Diamond Spot 350 (Essential for dorms and trekking) - $40
• Portable Charger: Anker PowerCore 10000 (Keeps your devices charged) - $30

Choosing The Right Hostel For Your Southeast Asia Trip

Ultimately, the best hostel for you depends on your travel style, budget, and preferences. Do your research, read reviews, and don't be afraid to try different places. Happy travels!