How to make a reservation

Have questions about how to make a reservation? We'll help you get it answered fast.

Do I need to have the same name on the credit card as I do on the booking?

No. The name on the credit card can be different from the name on the reservation. Please remember though, in the event of a no-show, the hostel will charge the credit card used for the total of the first night's accommodation.
 
I have a debit card, but I can’t seem to make the booking.

Some hostels will not accept debit cards. In these instances, you won't see a debit card listed when you’re ready to select your method of payment. 

The price on my confirmation email is different from the amount on my credit card statement.

Though we allow you to view and charge for your deposit and booking fee in US Dollars (US$), Euros (€) or in Great British Pounds (GBP£), the final balance due will always be in the local currency of the property booked. Because exchange rates are subject to fluctuation, we cannot guarantee the exchange rate on the day that you book to be the same rate when the charge appears on your card. 

What credit and debit cards do you accept?

We accept Visa and MasterCard.

Is EuropeanHostels a secure site?

Absolutely. Our site is secured by GoDaddy.com, a leader in Internet security. All information is encrypted online and transferred securely directly to the hostel. For any further security concerns or questions, please email us.
 
What if the hostel I want to book does not offer online booking?

If the hostel you would like to book does not offer online booking, simply contact the property directly by phone, fax or email.

How do I make a booking?

You need a valid credit card or debit card to book online. We accept Visa and MasterCard credit cards. Your credit card will be charged for a 10% deposit (down payment) and a booking fee (US $2.00). Once you have selected your destination, preferred hostel, number of people and number of nights, you will be prompted for your credit card details in order to confirm the booking. You will receive an on-screen confirmation of your reservation which you should print and bring to the hostel. The balance to be paid upon arrival at the hostel will be clearly displayed on your booking confirmation. It will always be in the local currency of the hostel. 

In addition, you can check your bookings anytime anywhere by logging on to EuropeanHostels.com and clicking the “my account” tab. Even while traveling, you can log in to your account and print out confirmation details or check booking details.
 
Do I need a credit card to reserve a room?

Yes, you do. You must have a valid credit or debit card to book. We accept Visa and MasterCard. Please check hostel details to see if they accept credit cards on arrival. Most hostels will accept debit cards unless otherwise specified.

Can you give me contact details before I book?

We do not provide contact information for hostels before you book with them. You will receive complete directions to the hostel including up-to-date contact information, a current email address and telephone number, when you receive a booking confirmation.

What is the maximum number of people I can book for?

You can book for up to 10 people in any one reservation. For more than 10 people, please view the group bookings question and answer below.

Can I make a group booking?

Yes, most hostels, especially the Hostels International affiliates, welcome groups and therefore allow you to book online for between 9-20 people. You may be charged a 10% deposit (down payment) at the time of the booking. As with all other bookings, the remainder of your bill is paid directly to the hostel. We advise you read the terms and conditions carefully before you book. If your group is larger than 20 people, you must check directly with the hostel. Check details and booking information on EuropeanHostels.com first. Make sure you ask the hostel about group rates, discounts and availability.

I am traveling with young children. Should I book a bed for them?

Yes, we suggest that you book for children. Any specific conditions related to children will be clearly displayed within the hostel results. Some hostels are especially child-friendly, so be sure to read user reviews to find these gems.

What is the 10% deposit for and is it refundable upon my arrival?

When you book online, we take a 10% deposit (down payment) for your reservation plus a US $2.00 booking fee. This amount will not be refunded to you upon arrival at the hostel. The remaining 90% of your balance, as shown on your booking confirmation, is due when you check in at the hostel. All charges from our site will be shown in US dollars.

Can I pay with cash on arrival?

Maybe. It depends on the individual property’s policy if you can pay in cash. Methods of payment and whether you can pay with cash, by check or with a credit card, should all be clearly displayed within hostel details.

I get an error message while waiting for my confirmation.

There may be a few reasons why your credit card transaction will not go through. There may not be sufficient funds to cover the transaction being booked. You may not have filled out all information fields requested. Please look closely at the error messages that appear on the booking page to see if you can correct them. If, however, you are receiving a specific online error message, copy and paste it into an email and send it to us.