How to make the most of Hostel life: Tips for first timers

I still remember the nervous flutter in my stomach as I stepped out of the taxi and into the narrow lanes of South Delhi. It was my first solo trip, my first time in India—and most importantly, my first time staying in a hostel.

The name AmigosIndia had popped up during a frantic late-night search for “best backpacker hostels in Delhi.” The reviews raved about its vibe, the walking tours, and most importantly, the people. I had no idea what to expect, but from the moment I walked in, I knew I was in for something different.

At the reception, a barefoot traveler with a guitar slung over his shoulder was chatting with a girl about their favorite street food stalls. Someone handed me a glass of chai and smiled, “Welcome home.”

That’s how it began.

The Dorm Diaries

Sharing a room with seven strangers sounded chaotic, but oddly enough, it worked. My bunk was cozy, there were lockers for our stuff, and earplugs (which I now carry everywhere) solved the occasional snoring symphony. My dorm mates included a Spanish photographer, a girl from Manali escaping city life, and two friends on a gap year from Germany. Within a few hours, we weren’t strangers anymore.

I quickly learned that packing light and smart was key. My quick-dry towel, flip-flops, and padlock became my best friends. I also picked up on the unspoken hostel etiquette: keep your stuff tidy, don’t hog the bathroom, and try not to be that person rustling plastic bags at 2 a.m.

Where Strangers Become Friends

What surprised me most was how easy it was to connect. One evening, I joined a free walking tour hosted by the AmigosIndia team. As we wandered through forgotten Mughal tombs and hidden bazaars, conversations flowed. The hostel had this magical way of making everyone feel included. We shared stories, laughed over spicy momos, and ended the night with a rooftop jam session under fairy lights.

That night, I realized something: hostel life is less about where you sleep and more about who you meet.

The Community Vibe

AmigosIndia didn’t feel like a business—it felt like a home run by people who genuinely cared. The staff remembered your name, joined you for meals, and always had the best local tips. They encouraged us to try everything—from catching sunrise at Lodhi Garden to joining a group heading to Kasol for their upcoming retreat (which I’m definitely signing up for!).

There was always something happening—community dinners, movie nights, impromptu dance-offs. You could join in or just sit quietly with a book. No pressure. Just vibes.

Lessons Learned

By the end of my stay, I had picked up more than travel tips. I’d learned to go with the flow, to embrace spontaneity, and to say yes more often. I left with a longer contact list, a few inside jokes, and an invite to visit three countries I’d never been to.

So, to anyone nervous about their first hostel stay—do it. Take the leap. Especially if you’re coming to India, AmigosIndia is a beautiful place to start. You might arrive with a backpack, but you’ll leave with stories, friendships, and maybe even a new version of yourself.