
Best Backpacker Hostels in Sydney
Summer House Kings Cross is the perfect hostel for backpackers seeking an affordable, social stay in Sydney. Located near Kings Cross Station, it offers daily events like free pancake breakfasts, BBQ nights, and trivia, making it easy to meet fellow travellers. Backpackers can enjoy large security lockers, free high-speed Wi-Fi, and a rooftop for relaxing. The on-site travel desk helps plan trips to the Blue Mountains, East Coast, and beyond, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.
The Original Backpackers Hostel is perfect for backpackers in Sydney, offering a lively and social atmosphere just 200 metres from Kings Cross Station. With a well-equipped kitchen, sunny courtyard, and chill-out lounge with Netflix, it’s ideal for meeting fellow travellers. Dorms range from 4 to 10 beds, all with privacy curtains, lockers, and fridges. Plus, free fast Wi-Fi, games rooms, and sports equipment make it a great choice for budget-conscious adventurers.
Bondi Beach Backpackers is the perfect spot for backpackers looking to stay near Sydney’s famous Bondi Beach. Just seconds from the beach and surrounded by vibrant bars and cafés, it offers air-conditioned dorms and private rooms, plus free surfboards, bodyboards, and snorkels. The hostel supports travellers with job assistance, travel advice, and essentials like free tea, coffee, pasta, and sunscreen, creating a fun, social, and affordable backpacker experience.
Best Backpacker Hostels in Sydney
⭐ 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.
Summer House Kings Cross is one of the best hostels in Sydney for backpackers, offering an ideal balance of affordability, comfort, and social atmosphere. Situated just a short walk from Kings Cross Station and Hyde Park, this hostel is perfect for travellers who want to be close to the city’s vibrant nightlife while enjoying a quieter street for relaxation.
Backpackers will love the hostel’s social vibe, with daily events like free pancake breakfasts, BBQ nights, trivia, and movie nights, all designed to help you meet fellow travellers. The rooftop area is an excellent spot to unwind after a day of exploring. With large security lockers, surfboard hire, and travel discounts, Summer House ensures backpackers have everything they need for a fun and hassle-free stay.
The on-site travel desk is a valuable resource for planning adventures beyond Sydney, with experts on hand to organise trips to the Blue Mountains, the East Coast, or even New Zealand and Fiji. With free high-speed Wi-Fi and a friendly team managing the hostel, Summer House Kings Cross provides a warm and inviting “home away from home” for backpackers eager to make the most of their Sydney experience.
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
⭐ 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.
Secret Garden Backpackers is an excellent choice for backpackers in Sydney, offering affordable accommodation and a social, vibrant atmosphere. Located just a short walk from Central Railway Station and close to Sydney’s major attractions like the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, it’s perfect for travellers looking to explore the city.
Backpackers will appreciate the free Wi-Fi, large individual lockers, and comfortable beds with private power sockets in each room. The hostel’s communal areas, including a kitchen, laundry, and TV room, make it easy to connect with fellow travellers. Secret Garden Backpackers organises regular social events, such as musical bingo and karaoke nights, as well as free pancakes on Sundays, helping guests bond and make the most of their stay.
With its proximity to the lively Surry Hills area, filled with restaurants and bars, and the convenience of being just 10 minutes from Central Station, Secret Garden Backpackers is an ideal base for budget-conscious travellers. Whether you’re relaxing in the garden, taking a swim in nearby Prince Alfred Park, or heading on a weekend day trip organised by the hostel, it offers a perfect balance of fun, comfort, and convenience for backpackers.
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
⭐ 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.
The Original Backpackers Hostel is an excellent choice for backpackers seeking a vibrant, social, and well-located stay in Sydney. Set in a charming building just 200 metres from Kings Cross train station, the hostel offers easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, including a 30-minute walk to the Opera House through the stunning Royal Botanic Gardens.
This hostel caters perfectly to the needs of backpackers with its well-equipped, modern kitchen, large sunny courtyard, and communal TV lounge with Netflix. It also provides plenty of opportunities to meet fellow travellers in its social spaces, including a games room with a PlayStation 4, board games, and sports equipment available for use. The free, fast Wi-Fi extends throughout the hostel, ensuring you can stay connected from the comfort of your room.
Accommodation options include private twin and double rooms with fridges and kettles, as well as dorms ranging from 4 to 10 beds, all equipped with privacy curtains, storage lockers, and fridges. Whether you’re looking to chill in the courtyard, cook in the kitchen, or explore nearby sights, The Original Backpackers Hostel is ideal for budget-conscious travellers who want both comfort and community.
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
⭐ 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.
Nate’s Place Backpackers is an ideal choice for backpackers seeking a vibrant and social hostel experience in Sydney. Fully renovated in 2023, the hostel offers modern facilities with a fantastic rooftop boasting views of the Harbour Bridge. Located in Darlinghurst, it’s just a short walk from the lively Kings Cross nightlife district, where you’ll find the best pubs, clubs, and restaurants Sydney has to offer.
The hostel’s friendly staff and laid-back atmosphere make it easy to meet fellow travellers, with plenty of organised social events, including the Friday Rooftop BBQ Party and Sunday Morning Pancakes, adding to the fun. Backpackers can enjoy free high-speed Wi-Fi, travel discounts, and large security lockers, ensuring both comfort and convenience during their stay.
With a prime location near city attractions like Darling Harbour, Hyde Park, and Westfield Tower, as well as being just two stops away from Bondi Beach, Nate’s Place is perfectly situated for exploring Sydney. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a vibrant social scene, this hostel offers an excellent balance of everything a backpacker could want for an unforgettable stay in the heart of Sydney.
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
⭐ 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.
Bondi Beach Backpackers is an ideal choice for backpackers seeking a fun, relaxed, and affordable stay near Sydney’s iconic Bondi Beach. Located just seconds from the sand, this hostel offers a welcoming environment for travellers who want to experience both the beach and the city. With its clean, air-conditioned rooms available in various sizes, from mixed and female dorms to private family rooms, there’s something for everyone.
Guests can take advantage of free surfboards, bodyboards, snorkels, and other equipment, making it easy to enjoy Bondi’s outdoor lifestyle. The hostel’s proximity to cool bars, cafés, and transport links to the city and airport enhances its appeal for those looking to explore Sydney.
Daily events and friendly staff ensure a social atmosphere, while free essentials like tea, coffee, pasta, and sunscreen are provided to keep your stay affordable. Whether you’re here for a short visit or an extended stay, Bondi Beach Backpackers combines fun, practicality, and convenience, making it one of the best choices for backpackers in Sydney.
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.