The word “hostel” doesn’t mean what it used to. Once synonymous with threadbare sheets and rows of squeaky bunk beds, hostels have stepped into a new era.
Across the globe, these next-generation hostels are rewriting the rules—pairing affordability with striking design, social energy with privacy, and increasingly, wellness with community.
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Walk into one of these hostels and the shift is obvious: privacy curtains, individual charging stations, en-suite bathrooms. Many next-gen hostels now boast rooftop pools, coworking spaces for digital nomads and restaurants serving far more than instant noodles.
Some have even jumped into the wellness game with yoga classes, massage services and meditation sessions—experiences once reserved for high-end resorts.
Eight Next-Gen Hostels Leading the Travel Evolution
The best part? You’re not paying resort prices for resort-quality experiences. Next-gen hostels have figured out how to give you more of what you actually want, whether that’s a decent night’s sleep, a place to work or just somewhere to hang out. Here are eight next-generation hostel brands leading the way.
1. Yeah Hostel — Barcelona, Spain
Located in Barcelona’s Eixample district, Yeah Hostel totally nails comfort and community. The hostel is a 10-minute walk from both La Sagrada Familia and La Pedrera, making its location unbeatable.
Yeah hosts group dinners that guests rave about, and the rooftop terrace with pool is one of the few you’ll find in central Barcelona. Privacy curtains and en-suite bathrooms are standard. Plus, there’s a dedicated coworking space for digital nomads and common areas for socializing.
2. Selina — Multiple Locations Worldwide
Selina reinvents what a hostel can be as “the world’s largest hospitality platform” for Millennial and Gen Z travelers. While global, the chain first made its mark in Central and South America, combining accommodation with coworking, recreation, wellness and local experiences.
What still sets Selina apart are their authentic experiences. Think rock climbing, urban walking tours, jungle treks, cooking classes, music workshops and surfing.
3. Outpost — Bali, Indonesia
Outpost cracks the code on next-generation hostels in one of the world’s top destinations for mindful travel. With two Bali locations offering shared dorms to private bungalows, you can pick how social or secluded you want to be.
Their rooftop coworking space features meeting rooms and video-call booths. Day passes are available if you need a desk, and the excellent coffee doesn’t hurt either. Yoga enthusiasts get discounted classes at the studio across the street. Outpost also organizes social events and connects guests with local drivers and guides for temple and beach adventures.
4. Generator Hostels — Multiple European Cities
Generator operates 16 properties across Europe and the United States, with recent European additions in Stockholm, Rome and Amsterdam. Their “design-led” approach features soaring ceiling heights, bold furnishings and Instagram-worthy spaces.
Each location collaborates with local artists and creators, giving every property its own reflection of the city’s character. Amenities go way past expectations—fitness centers, multiple dining options, event spaces and premium private rooms that rival boutique hotels while maintaining hostel prices.
5. Zostel — Multiple Locations in India
Zostel transforms backpacking across India by weaving local culture into modern amenities—private bathrooms, air conditioning and common areas for socializing or chilling solo.
Programming includes cultural experiences, adventure tours and wellness activities that immerse you in India’s diverse landscapes and cultures. It’s like having insider knowledge built right into your stay.
6. Mad Monkey Hostel — Southeast Asia
Mad Monkey has established their reputation across Southeast Asia by creating party-friendly environments without sacrificing comfort or cleanliness. Properties feature pool areas, bars and restaurants, organized activities and accommodations ranging from dorms to private rooms with hotel-level amenities.
Mad Monkey has clearly mastered the tricky balance between social atmosphere and personal space, securing the hostel as the go-to choice across Thailand, Cambodia and the Philippines for travelers who want both community and quality sleep.
7. The People — Multiple Locations in France
The People reimagines the youth hostel concept in France with “hybrid accommodation” that works for all ages and traveler types, not just backpackers. The focus is squarely on relaxation, with private rooms and shared dormitories designed for rest.
The eco-certified properties feature vegetable gardens, sustainable initiatives and communal kitchens, all housed in spotless, modern spaces in safe neighborhoods.
With locations in Paris (Nation and Bercy), Strasbourg, Marseille, Le Havre and Tours, The People successfully bridges the gap between hostels and boutique hotels.
8. Onefam — Multiple Locations Across Europe
Onefam promises “more than just a bed” across their 16 European hostels. They’ve created welcoming, homey accommodations that boast modern amenities with local charm.
You’ll find them in prime spots across Barcelona, Porto, Madrid, Seville, Prague, Budapest and London—landing in iconic neighborhoods like London’s Notting Hill or Porto’s historic Ribeira district.
Each hostel features shared lounges, communal spaces and accommodations that prioritize cleanliness while maintaining the social atmosphere that makes hostel travel special.
Snapshot Summary
Modern hostels are ditching cramped dorms for privacy curtains, rooftop pools and coworking spaces. These eight brands prove budget travel doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style. From Selina’s wellness-focused properties across Latin America to Generator’s design-forward European locations, today’s hostels offer everything from yoga classes to gourmet dining. Whether you’re seeking community vibes in Barcelona or mindful travel in Bali, these next-generation hostels deliver elevated experiences without the luxury price tag.
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