A hostel is a lower-priced inn of sorts that offers basic, shared accommodations. Typically, a hostel features a large room with separate beds, a shared bathroom, and a communal kitchen. Some hostels have private rooms, but the lower-cost ones generally offer bunk beds.

A hostel is a form of low-cost, short-term shared sociable lodging where guests can rent a bed, usually a bunk bed in a dormitory sleeping 4–20 people, with shared use of a lounge and usually a kitchen. Rooms can be mixed or single-sex and have private or shared bathrooms. Private rooms may also be available.

Hostels are hospitality businesses that have shared rooms and spaces. The meaning of a hostel is that you only pay for your bed, and share the rest of the room's space with other people you don't know. Due to this "co-habitation" set-up, the prices for this type of stay are much more affordable.

Because each dorm features multiple beds and there's usually less privacy and fewer amenities, hostels cost less money than hotels. The more beds per room, the lower the cost. Most hostels feature shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen and a common area where you can work, hang out and meet other travelers.