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Best Backpacker Hostels in Sydney

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Best Backpacker Hostels in Sydney

Summer House Kings Cross

Summer House Backpackers Kings Cross

Rating: 8.3 over more than 1,100 reviews
💲 Prices: from €26

What do guests say?

Guests love Summer House Kings Cross for its welcoming staff, clean rooms, and vibrant social atmosphere. The hostel’s central location, close to Kings Cross Station and the Opera House, along with daily events like pancake breakfasts and BBQs, makes it ideal for backpackers.
Pros:
  • Great social atmosphere, ideal for backpackers
  • Friendly and helpful staff
  • Daily events like pancake breakfasts and BBQs
  • Central location near Kings Cross Station and attractions
  • Clean and spacious rooms
  • Chill vibe with a mix of long-term and short-term travellers
  • Organised travel desk for planning trips
Cons:
  • Can get crowded during events
  • Noise from social areas may not suit guests looking for a quiet stay
  • No air conditioning in some rooms

Secret Garden Backpackers Sydney

Secret Garden Backpackers Sydney

Rating: 8.3 over more than 800 reviews
💲 Prices: from €26

What do guests say?

Guests love Secret Garden Backpackers for its friendly staff, welcoming atmosphere, and social events like free food nights. The beautiful garden and communal areas make it easy to meet people, while the hostel is kept clean and well-maintained, offering a relaxed vibe.
Pros:
  • Friendly and welcoming staff
  • Ideal for backpackers with regular social events
  • Clean rooms and communal areas
  • Beautiful garden for socialising
  • Located near Central Railway Station
  • Free food nights and activities
  • Spacious kitchen with plenty of utilities
  • Easy to meet fellow travellers
Cons:
  • Some rooms have poor ventilation
  • Slightly outside main tourist attractions
  • Rooms can be small

The Original Backpackers Hostel

The Original Backpackers Hostel

Rating: 8.6 over more than 1,300 reviews
💲 Prices: from €24

What do guests say?

Guests love The Original Backpackers Hostel for its welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and cosy social spaces. The calm location, cleanliness, and community vibe make it feel like a home-away-from-home, with many travellers extending their stay due to the great experience.
Pros:
  • Ideal for backpackers with a welcoming and social atmosphere
  • Friendly, helpful staff that make guests feel at home
  • Well-equipped kitchen and sunny courtyard for socialising
  • Clean rooms and communal areas
  • Great location near Kings Cross Station
  • Free fast Wi-Fi throughout the hostel
  • Games room and sports equipment available
Cons:
  • Some dorm rooms may feel a bit cramped for long stays
  • Lack of air conditioning in some areas
  • Limited storage space in dorm rooms

Nate's Place Backpackers

Nates Place Backpacker

Rating: 9.1 over more than 200 reviews
💲 Prices: from €29

What do guests say?

Guests love Nate’s Place Backpackers for its friendly staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and great social events like the Friday BBQ. Its convenient location near King’s Cross Station and the CBD makes it ideal for exploring Sydney, especially for backpackers.
Pros:
  • Friendly and accommodating staff
  • Clean, newly renovated rooms
  • Daily social events (e.g. Friday BBQ)
  • Great atmosphere for meeting fellow backpackers
  • Excellent location near King’s Cross Station and CBD
  • Free Wi-Fi included
  • Rooftop with Harbour Bridge views
  • Ideal for budget-conscious travellers
Cons:
  • Small common areas
  • Limited kitchen space
  • Can get crowded during peak times

Bondi Beach Backpackers

Bondi Beach Backpackers

Rating: 8.7 over more than 1,100 reviews
💲 Prices: from €33

What do guests say?

Guests love Bondi Beach Backpackers for its unbeatable location just minutes from Bondi Beach, welcoming staff, and helpful amenities like free pasta, rice, and surfboards. The social atmosphere, clean rooms, and friendly service make it a top choice for travellers.
Pros:
  • Perfect location just 2 minutes from Bondi Beach
  • Friendly and helpful staff, great for backpackers
  • Affordable rates with long-stay deals available
  • Free amenities like pasta, rice, surfboards, and job search help
  • Large kitchen and socialising areas
  • Great social vibe, ideal for meeting fellow travellers
Cons:
  • Some issues with air conditioning and room temperatures
  • Cleanliness could be improved in some areas

For travellers eager to uncover Sydney’s hidden gems, we invite you to explore our comprehensive guide: Best Hostels in Sydney. Whether you’re seeking hostels near the airport, a beachfront escape, city-centre lodging, youth hostels, or private rooms, Sydney has a variety of options to suit your preferences. Finding the right hostel can significantly enhance your stay, and our guide is designed to help you choose the ideal accommodation for your Sydney adventure.

What to Expect from Backpackers Hostels in Sydney?

Backpackers hostels in Sydney offer a vibrant, social atmosphere where travellers can meet like-minded adventurers from around the world. Expect affordable, no-frills accommodation with communal spaces like kitchens, lounges, and often a rooftop terrace. Many hostels organise regular events such as pub crawls, trivia nights, and group outings to help solo travellers connect. Rooms range from mixed dormitories to private options, with essentials like Wi-Fi, lockers, and sometimes free breakfast included. Proximity to key attractions, beaches, and nightlife is common, making them a convenient base for exploring the city.

Top Tips for Backpackers in Sydney

Sydney is a fantastic destination for backpackers, offering a mix of stunning beaches, iconic landmarks, and a lively social scene. Here are some top tips to make the most of your backpacking experience:

  • Book hostels in advance during peak seasons
  • Take advantage of free events and hostel-organised activities
  • Use public transport or walk to save money on sightseeing
  • Explore Sydney’s free attractions like Bondi Beach, the Royal Botanic Gardens, and The Rocks
  • Bring your own padlock for hostel lockers
  • Make the most of communal kitchens to save on food costs
  • Stay social and open to meeting new people – hostels are great for connecting with fellow travellers

Best Neighbourhoods for Backpackers in Sydney

Sydney has a variety of neighbourhoods that cater to backpackers, each with its own unique vibe. Here are some of the best areas to consider:

  • Kings Cross – Lively nightlife and budget-friendly hostels
  • Bondi Beach – Perfect for beach lovers, with a laid-back vibe and coastal walks
  • Surry Hills – Trendy cafes, bars, and a vibrant art scene
  • Darlinghurst – Close to nightlife and great for solo travellers looking to socialise
  • The Rocks – A historic area with stunning harbour views and easy access to iconic attractions
  • Sydney CBD – Central location with quick access to main attractions, transport, and shopping

FAQs for Backpackers in Sydney

Is it safe to stay in backpackers hostels in Sydney?

Yes, Sydney hostels are generally safe. Most hostels offer secure lockers, CCTV, and 24-hour reception. It’s always a good idea to bring your own padlock for additional security.

What are the average prices for backpackers hostels in Sydney?

Prices typically range from €20-€40 per night, depending on the location, season, and whether you choose a dormitory or private room.

Are there backpacker hostels near Sydney’s main attractions?

Yes, many hostels are located in key areas like Bondi Beach, Kings Cross, and Sydney CBD, providing easy access to popular spots like the Opera House, Harbour Bridge, and Bondi’s coastal walks.

Can I stay in a backpackers hostel long-term in Sydney?

Some hostels allow long-term stays and offer discounted rates for extended periods. It’s common for working holidaymakers to stay in hostels for several weeks or months.

Are there age restrictions for staying in backpacker hostels in Sydney?

Most hostels welcome guests over the age of 18, but some have age limits, often catering to travellers between 18-35 years old. Always check individual hostel policies.

Do Sydney backpackers hostels have organised social events?

Yes, many hostels organise regular social events such as pub crawls, BBQ nights, movie nights, and group walking tours to help travellers meet others and explore the city.

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