Brisbane might fly under the radar compared to its flashier Aussie neighbours, but that’s exactly what makes it a sweet spot for backpackers. It’s got that easy-going, sun-soaked vibe I’m obsessed with – scratching an itch that Sydney and Melbourne just can’t reach.
The city’s packed with budget-friendly finds – think quirky markets, live music spots, and green spaces perfect for a lazy afternoon. Plus, with beaches, rainforests, and islands just a short trip away, Brisbane has the perfect blend of city buzz and nature escapes that backpackers keep coming back for.
But here’s the thing. Brisbane’s a big place, but the hostel scene isn’t as sprawling as you’d expect. Finding the right hostel for you can feel like a bit of a mission.
Don’t worry, that’s where I come in. I’ve done LOTS of research both in the field and online so that you don’t have to (you’re welcome). My ultimate guide to the best hostels in Brisbane will have you down under in no time.
Are you ready? Grab a beer for the road and let’s get this hostel hunt started.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Brisbane
- Best Overall Hostel in Brisbane – YHA Brisbane City
- Best Hostel in Brisbane for Solo Travelers – City Backpackers HQ
- Best Cheap Hostel in Brisbane – Somewhere to Stay Backpackers
- Best Party Hostel in Brisbane – Bunk Brisbane
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Brisbane – Brisbane Quarters
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The 5 Best Hostels in Brisbane
Here it is – the crème de la crème of Brisbane’s hostels, neatly split into travel niches just for you. Picking a place has never been easier, so you can get out exploring the city ASAP.
1. YHA Brisbane City – Best Overall Hostel in Brisbane
- Dorm (mixed): From $32/night
- Private Room: From $90/night
- Address: 392 Upper Roma Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane
If you’re hunting for one of the coolest spots to crash in Brisbane, YHA has you covered. This place nails the chill vibes with a killer bar and a patio terrace that’s perfect for kicking back before a night out. The swimming pool is ideal for cooling off after a day of exploring Brissie’s best bits.
They’ve got some epic activities too – don’t miss the Aboriginal boomerang painting with Glen, it’s a proper experience! Plus, the rooftop bar is a solid spot to meet fellow travellers. Weekly BBQ nights and walking tours around the city? Sorted. Location-wise, you’re just a ten-minute stroll from the museums, and a little further to Fortitude Valley for your nightlife fix.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Social Vibes
- Big and Comfy Dorms
- Daily Events Held
The kitchen’s big, organised, and an absolute lifesaver when you’re dodging hangry backpackers during dinner rush. Seriously, no one wants to fight for a hob. The dorms are basic but have all the essentials: massive lockers for your gear and, most importantly, AC to save you from melting in the Aussie summer heat.
In true laid-back Aussie fashion, YHA is the go-to for party people looking for good vibes, good times, and a super welcoming crew. The team knows their stuff and are always happy to help with your travel plans.
2. City Backpackers HQ – Best Hostel in Brisbane for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $30/night
- Private Room: From $90/night
- Address: 380 Upper Roma Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane
City HQ is an ideal youth hostel in Brisbane for travellers who want to party but equally want to crash in their own pad. City HQ has their own super cool bar called The Fatt Wombat; here you’ll find backpackers from across Brisbane piling in to make the most of cheap beer and an on-point party vibe. If you hit the Fatt Wombat hard and don’t fancy straying far, make the most of City Backpacker HQ’s movie lounge.
City Backpackers HQ is exactly that, it’s located right in the centre of Brisbane City within walking distance of Queen Street Mall. However you’re super close to the Brisbane River and just across the water from South Bank, so it’s a pretty chill Brisbane hostel too. There are even movie nights at City HQ if you’re looking to have a quiet one.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Incredible Location in South Bank
- Movie Lounge
- Rooftop Hangout
The private rooms are a full-on treat here! With comfy beds, river views and your own private space, they’re definitely worth the slightly more expensive price.
Those who really want to get to know Brisbane will love the location. You’re in the heart of the city, close to all of the main attractions. South Bank City Beach and the weekend markets are just a short stroll away! If you don’t feel like going out, simply head up to the rooftop and socialise – it’s the best spot to make new friends with other people backpacking the East Coast!
3. Somewhere to Stay Backpackers – Best Cheap Hostel in Brisbane
- Dorm (mixed): From $28/night
- Private Room: From $66/night
- Address: 47 Brighton Road, 4101 Brisbane
Smack bang in Brisbane’s buzzing West End, Somewhere to Stay Backpackers is surrounded by cheap eats, cool bars, and all the caffeine-fuelled cafes you could want. Plus, you’re just a short stroll from City Beach at South Bank and the CBD, so you’ll be right in the middle of the action.
This hostel’s got it all: a lush garden, outdoor pool, and chilled verandas. The kitchen setup is a dream for keeping your food budget low because let’s face it, backpacking in Australia ain’t cheap. But for what you pay here, the value’s off the charts.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Central Location
- Daily Events Held
- Decent Kitchen
The crew at Somewhere have nailed the vibes, making you feel right at home the second you toss your backpack in your dorm. There’s something happening every night – BBQ Mondays, Paint n Sip, free pizza nights, BBQs, Mario Kart tournaments, and more.
Now, the dorms are pretty basic, but for this price, who’s complaining? The beds have curtains, which is basically luxury in backpacker terms, and the bathrooms are cleaned daily. Heads up though as there’s no AC in the rooms. If you can’t handle the heat, summer might be a bit rough. But if you’re cool with that, you’ll save a chunk of cash staying here.
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View on Osprey View on REI4. Bunk Brisbane – Best Party Hostel in Brisbane
- Dorm (mixed): From $32/night
- Private Room: From $97/night
- Address: 11-21 Gipps St, Fortitude Valley, Fortitude Valley, 4006 Brisbane
The best party hostel in the city is Bunk Brisbane, hands down! Offering guests a bright and modern hostel building complete with an outdoor swimming pool and their own bar you’ll be rocking from dusk ’til dawn at Bunk! That said, you can still get a decent night’s sleep if you don’t fancy hitting it hard. Bunk was voted the best hostel in Australia in 2016 and they’ve kept up the good work.
Bunk is also in a great location within walking distance of Brisbane CBD, so you can be over at Queen Street Mall and Fortitude Valley in no time. There’s also air conditioning so you can chill in the cool large lounge room or sun yourself in the outdoor communal areas.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free and super fast Wifi
- Dorms only available for international passport holders
- Travel desk
Bunk has been the most popular hostel in Brisbane for three consecutive years, so you’ll definitely be in for a treat. Note that you can only get into a dorm bedroom if you’re an international backpacker. Australian travellers only get the private room option.
To meet like-minded travellers, simply head out to the beer garden, grab a drink and socialise. Bunk Brisbane is known for its super friendly and welcoming atmosphere, so you’ll be able to make friends in no time!
5. Brisbane Quarters – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Brisbane
- Dorm (mixed): From $43/night
- Private Room: From $84/night
- Address: 413 Upper Edward Street, Spring Hill, 4000 Brisbane
Brisbane Quarters is a hostel to simply fall in love with. Perfect for digital nomads, you can enjoy high-speed wifi all day and get your work done. When you finally close your laptop, the value of the hostel really gets to shine. Jump in the pool, get a sweat on in the fitness area or socialise with other like-minded travellers – the entertainment options are endless.
This hostel is another in Brisbane’s city centre, so you’ll be able to reach most of the spots in your Brisbane itinerary on foot. If you’re not 100% sure where to start your adventure in the city, head to the reception and the friendly staff will provide you with insider information and top tips.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free High-Speed Free WiFi
- Library
- Fitness area
You can make new pals by staying in one of the dorm or pod-style rooms at this Brisbane hostel. If you’re looking for a bit more privacy, opt for a private room with an ensuite bathroom. It might be a bit more expensive, but definitely worth it!
The biggest perk of the hostel is definitely the air-conditioned rooms. Especially towards the summer months, you’ll really look forward to having a cool place to rest your head. Even the communal kitchen is equipped with an aircon unit! Make some delicious meals without breaking into a sweat – definitely a luxury in Australia!
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Hide Yo’ Money!More Epic Brisbane Hostels
So, now that I’ve talked about the best, let’s talk about the rest! (Of the best). These are some more picks from the top Brisbane hostels to rest your weary head at when exploring the city.
6. Summer House Brisbane
- Dorm (mixed): From $30/night
- Address: 350 Upper Roma Street, Brisbane CBD
The best place to stay for digital nomads in Brisbane is, of course, Summer House Brisbane. Summer House is a haven for digital nomads travelling the land down under offering free, super-fast and totally unlimited WiFi access. Their sunny rooftop terrace is the perfect spot to bosh out the workload before joining the Summer House crew for their evening activities; everything from movie nights to free Italian dinners. Summer House Brisbane is a top hostel in Brisbane, especially for digital nomads.
7. Roamer Brisbane
- Dorm (mixed): From $43/night
- Private Room: From $127/night
- Address: 466 George Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane
This ex-Selina spot has all the cushy perks you’d expect from the chain. Think cosy dorms with curtains for a bit of privacy, ensuite bathrooms, and fancy communal hangouts. The beds even come with storage underneath, so you can dump your gear without looking like that classic hostel mess (you know the one). The workroom’s a dream for digital nomads needing a quiet corner to smash out some emails or escape the kitchen chaos. They’ve got bachata and yoga classes going on too, which is a pretty solid way to meet other people backpacking Australia. It’s not the wildest social scene, but if you’re after some chill time to recharge, Roamer Brisbane’s your go-to.
8. LyLo Brisbane
- Dorm (mixed): From $50/night
- Private Room: From $155/night
- Address: 142 Constance St, Fortitude Valley, Fortitude Valley, 4006 Brisbane
Oh man, this place is cool. It’s more bar than hostel, with neon lights and hotel-level comfort that add a dash of luxe to your Brisbane stay. LyLo Brisbane proudly claims the title of the city’s first-ever pod accommodation, and they’re here to shake up the hostel game. You’ve got snug communal spaces, rooftop hangouts, and chilled co-working rooms scattered around, plus an open-air kitchen that’s pure bliss on those summer city nights. Oh, and the location is bang-on – right near the best bars, restaurants, and entertainment spots in town.
9. Breeze Lodge
- Dorm (mixed): From $30/night
- Address: 635 Main Street Kangaroo Point, Kangaroo Point, 4169 Brisbane
Breeze Lodge is seriously impressive. The guest kitchen is a dream – loads of space for everyone to cook at once and utensils that don’t look like they’ve been through a war. The rooms are super comfy, each bed with its own power point, light, and locker. The real star, though, is the rooftop terrace – perfect for chilling out with epic city views. And let’s not forget the two big lounge areas decked out with Netflix. Lazy days here are on another level. It’s not in the most buzzing part of town, but you’re right next to a 24-hour supermarket and well-connected to the city centre.
10. Chill Backpackers
- Dorm (mixed): From $32/night
- Private Room: From $112/night
- Address: 328 Upper Roma Street, Brisbane CBD, 4000 Brisbane
Chill Backpackers is an all-around good egg and a top hostel in Brisbane. Offering overlanding travellers use of their off-street parking for free, Chill Backpackers has been created with young travellers in mind. If you’ve got your working holiday visa but haven’t managed to find a job yet be sure to join Chill Backpacker’s job club to help hook you up with work. Chill is super chill, so super chill, in fact, you can BYOB and sip away with your dorm mates on the cosy roof terrace.
11. Gonow Family Backpacker
- Dorm (mixed): From $21/night
- Address: 145-147 Vulture Street , West End, 4101 Brisbane
Gonow has a classic Brisbane backpackers hostel vibe. They’re always pretty busy and this helps create a great hostel vibe. Gonow offers backpackers a basic breakfast each morning of toast with jam or chocolate spread and a cup of coffee. It’s not much but it certainly helps save a few dollars if you’re exploring Oz on a super shoe-string budget.
Since this is a budget hostel, you shouldn’t expect high-end luxury. The beds are super comfy and you’ll be provided with linen – they’re basic but do the job! Located roughly 25 minutes from the city centre in South Bank you’ll still be able to walk to all of the famous attractions and the Brisbane River. If you want to give your feet a rest, hop on the public transport instead!
12. Kookaburra Inn
Kookaburra Inn is a delightful departure from your usual hostel experience, leaning more towards the cosy charm of an inn. It’s ideal for couples or travel duos who want to kick back and take it slow in Brisbane. The vibe here is all about relaxation, and the team are absolute legends – they’re super welcoming and genuinely go out of their way to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
You’ll get to enjoy the perks of free WiFi and air conditioning, ensuring that your stay is both connected and cool. The Inn is tucked away as a hidden gem for those seeking a more laid-back and intimate escape. If you’re looking for a place to unwind and feel right at home, Kookaburra Inn is where you’ll want to be.
13. Nomads Brisbane
Nomads is one of the coolest Brisbane hostels and boasts a rooftop terrace complete with dozens of comfy sun loungers. Their Down Under Bar is the best place to hook up with travel buddies or even meet new nomads to explore with. What also makes this place stand out amongst the other Brisbane hostels is the location right in the middle of Brisbane city centre, so ideal for hitting places like Queen Street Mall.
Note that this is definitely not a party hostel, but more like a place to relax and chill before heading out to explore the city. While there are great nightlife options pretty much just around the corner at Fortitude Valley, you’re guaranteed to have a peaceful and quiet night at Nomads. If you’re looking for a Brisbane hostel that covers pretty much all bases, this is the one!
14. Bowen Terrace
One of the best places for solo travellers in Brisbane is Bowen Terrace. Whether you travel solo because you like your own space or you travel solo to meet and mingle, Bowen Terrace has the perfect setup for all solo travellers in Australia. The poolside and garden area is the ideal place to make new travel buddies and of an evening be sure to club together to whip up a mega BBQ! The Bowen team are really welcoming and are happy to help their guests. As a top hostel in Brisbane, they’ll even keep your big bag in storage for you if you opt into one of their island tours. Bowen Terrace is a little further from Brisbane City centre but it’s in a chilled area by the Brisbane River. They can even help you get to and from Brisbane Airport with their transfers.
15. Base Brisbane Uptown
Base Uptown is a great youth hostel in Brisbane for travellers seeking a mix of partying and exploring. Base has its own bar on site called The Guilty Rouge, good name! Base guests get 20% off at the bar and they run group events most nights, the team at reception will keep you up to date with what’s going on. Base is just a ten-minute walk from the South Bank area and its awesome park, restaurants, bars and coffee shops. This means you can check in, dump your bags and be on the beach in less than half an hour of arriving! Base Brisbane Uptown is perfect for solo travellers keen to make new travel buddies.
16. Manly Harbour Backpackers
Manly Harbour is a cracking budget hostel in Brisbane with free breakfast, free WiFi, laundry facilities and free parking – plus dorm rooms that don’t break the bank. It’s the only hostel in Brisbane right by the bay, so you’re always just a few steps from the ocean. If you’re planning to stick around Brisbane for a while on your Aussie gap year, this place feels like a proper home away from home. Don’t forget to have a natter with the super friendly staff about extending your stay and finding ways to earn your keep.
17. Joe’s Place
Joe’s Place is the epitome of “cheap and cheerful.” As a top pick for budget travellers in Brisbane, it delivers wallet-friendly accommodation for those keeping a close eye on their spending. Just 550m from Roma Street Station, it’s a breeze to connect to the rest of Brisbane. Managed by City Backpackers HQ, if you happen to find the reception empty on arrival, just pop next door and they’ll sort you out.
18. Banana Bender Backpackers
Banana Bender Backpackers is a tried and tested Brisbane backpackers hostel, loved by globe-trotters for the last 20 years. Banana Bender is ideal for travellers looking to spend more than just a few days in Brisbane, perhaps it’s the homely feel to the place or the cheap-as-chips dorm rates that make people never want to leave! Banana Bender can be found just outside Brisbane’s CBD meaning the cost of eating out or doing a weekly food shop is just a tad cheaper than in the heart of the city.
19. Big Bird
Big Bird is a basic but welcoming youth hostel in Brisbane offering guests comfortable dorms and clean bathrooms. Big Bird is a laid-back and friendly budget hostel and guests are permitted to drink their own booze in the common areas like the outdoor terrace or guest kitchen. The staff are always on hand to help if they can and are a great source of local knowledge especially when it comes to finding jobs. Although the Big Bird crew are up for a good time they have a quiet time policy after 11 pm. Fair enough really!
20. Yellow Submarine
Yellow Submarine is one of the best budget hostels in Brisbane located just a 5-minute walk from ‘Backpacker Central’. Yellow Submarine is basic and you do get what you pay for. That said, with free WiFi, a guest kitchen and a swimming pool, Yellow Submarine has all the facilities you could ask for in a Brisbane backpackers hostel, including those all-important laundry facilities. From the dorm windows, you can see brilliant views of Brisbane’s cityscape. For those balmy Australian evenings be sure to make the most of Yellow Submarine’s guest BBQ in their sun-trapped patio area.
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Brisbane
Unfortunately, things can go wrong when you least expect it. This is why good travel insurance is essential before you head on your trip to Brisbane.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
FAQs About Hostels in Brisbane
Here are some questions backpackers ask about Brisbane hostels.
What to Pack for your Brisbane Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
How much does a hostel cost in Brisbane?
In Brisbane, the cost of a dorm bed varies based on the room type. On average, you can expect to pay between $13-16 USD per night for a dorm bed, whether it’s mixed or female-only. If you’re leaning towards a private room, the Brisbane cost typically ranges from $42-47 USD per night.
What are the best Brisbane hostels with private rooms?
City Backpackers HQ is a solid choice for a hostel with some suuuuper cosy private rooms – perfect for couples in the city. They have all the great amenities you’d expect from a hostel but you’ll have your own private space to retreat to after a day of exploring. The best of both worlds baby!
What is the best Brisbane hostel near the airport?
Chill Backpackers, is 16km (about 20 minutes if the traffic gods are kind) to Brisbane Airport. As the name suggests it has everything you need to kick back and chill – which is crucial before a long travel day. It’s the perfect spot to recharge.
Final Thoughts on Brisbane’s Hostels
So, there you have it – the best hostels in Brisbane, all sorted for your next stop. Whether you’re after laid-back vibes, rooftop views, or a bed that doesn’t break the bank, you’ll find a hostel for you in this list.
Brisbane often gets overlooked on the East Coast backpacker trail and I think that’s a damn shame. With its easy-going vibe, constant sunshine, and the perfect mix of city life and outdoor escapes, Brisbane is a total hidden gem. Plus, with the Gold Coast just down the road, you get the best of both worlds – city buzz midweek and some of the best beaches Australia has to offer by the weekend. Perfect for backpackers on work holiday visas looking for that work-life balance, Aussie style.
If you’re still undecided on where to stay then YHA Brisbane City would be my top choice. It’s got a good location, cool amenities, and an even cooler crowd. You’ll fit right in here.
And hey, if you discover any hidden gems or must-try spots along the way, drop me a comment – I’m always looking for the best new spot in Brissy. Catchya later!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Australia for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Brisbane covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Brisbane if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Brisbane before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Sunshine Coast backpacking guide.
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