Headed to Edmonton, eh? ‘Course ya’re. As North America’s northernmost metropolitan area, you’re in for a great time, no matter what the season. Yes, even during those frigid winter months, Edmonton is bustling with lots to do and see. Definitely consider braving the cold to experience the ice castles, you won’t regret it.
When deciding where to stay, there are many options. From chain and boutique hotels to B&Bs and homestays, Edmonton has something for everyone and every budget. However, there’s no need to spend all your hard-earned money on the pricer places. Seriously, Edmonton has places to stay that give top quality at a fraction of the cost, and my places we mean our go-to backpacker accommodation: hostels!
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Edmonton
- Best Overall Hostel in Edmonton – HI Edmonton
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What to Expect from Hostels in Edmonton
We know you love hostels and they’re especially useful when backpacking Canada. We do too. That’s why we’re here. Despite only having one hostel, it’s a pretty sick one and ranks as one of the best hostels in Canada tbf.
Edmonton is a great place to visit in Canada with heaps to see and do, it’s the perfect base for exploring the north of the country. In fact, when it comes to the winter season it’s home to some of the most incredible experiences in Alberta.
The reality is, though, that Edmonton is home to only one hostel. It’s awesome, yeah, but we know the importance of having various options to choose from when you’re considering where to stay in Edmonton. That’s why we’ve rounded out the best hostels in Edmonton with other places that have the feel of a hostel. Here, you’ll find guesthouses, B&Bs and even a budget hotel and some awesome Edmonton ecolodges too. Each offers a hostel-like feel in one way or another, including and most importantly, the price.
The cost to stay in Edmonton ranges depending on the place. Sure, you can choose to spend the night at a traditional hotel for $60-$200 a night. But seriously, WHY? Instead, guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, as well as homestays are considerably less – around the $30-50 mark. The best prices, however, are definitely going to be found at a hostel where the rates start at about $20.
Here’s a heads-up: Some places to stay in Edmonton require a damage deposit when you check in (not included in the rate of your stay). This isn’t unheard of and you’ll definitely get your money back (if you don’t trash the place!). But it’s a good idea to check the fine print when booking because some deposits can be requested in cash (CAD) and others can be quite hefty.
High-speed WiFi is commonplace in Edmonton no matter where you’re staying (phew – I mean it’s the 21st century, right?!). Towels and linens are also typically included, which is an added plus so you don’t have to fill your backpack with them!
The differences from place to place are in what they offer. Choose one that helps keep your costs low with the use of a kitchen or shared bathroom as the cost of living in Canada can be quite high. Or pick one that has a sauna where you can relax after a day of epic Canadian hiking in the area. Either way, the choice is yours.
Many places to stay are located downtown which is really convenient, especially if you’re not planning to use a car while others are located in quiet neighbourhoods, throughout the city.
Getting around Edmonton is pretty easy if you have a car. But parking may be a bit more of a hassle. Check out the places that have parking on-site for free or for a small fee. Sometimes, paying a few bucks to secure a spot is so much better than trying to find a place to park or worse, getting a ticket! If you’re leaving the car behind, hop on Edmonton’s light rail (LTR) or bus system. For a small fee, you can get around town easily.
Another option is to use one of the electric scooters around town. Either Bird Scooters or Lime Scooters make it easy to zip around just download their apps and go. Ridesharing apps, like Uber, are also alive and well in the area.
Edmonton International Airport is about 30km south of downtown. To get to or from there you can arrange to take the Skyshuttle, taxi, or bus.
Best Hostels in Edmonton
Now that you know generally what to expect from hostels and places to stay in Edmonton, let’s get into more detail for each one on our list. Edmonton might only have one ‘proper’ hostel but it’s actually pretty good and is probably one of the best hostels in Canada tbf, but let’s check out all the options on the table!
Want to save money on accommodation?
We got you. For reals.
HI Edmonton – Best Overall Hostel in Edmonton
Hosteling International gets hostelling right. They know what travellers need and want. HI Edmonton is a perfect example of that. With Edmonton being one of the best places to visit in Canada, you’ll be glad to know there is a hostel and it’s a pretty sick one!
Here’s why they’ve got your back:
Room options: You pick between bunking it up in a dorm or closing the door to your own private room. If you’re a travelling couple that wants to keep costs down in a dorm but still snuggle at night, ask for a double bunk bed. Not many places offer that!
Looking to keep to your budget by cooking your own meals? The large communal kitchen is waiting for you to cook up a storm alongside your fellow guests!
Worried about your stuff? The lockers and luggage storage has got you covered. HI also includes linens and towels, so you don’t need to stuff those into your backpack for this trip.
Hoping to clean your duds during your stay in Edmonton? There’s no need to seek out a laundromat, HI has it all set up for guests to use, so you’ll be looking your best in no time and ready for the next adventure!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- The Vibe
- Pool Table
- Book Exchange
HI Edmonton has everything on paper that makes a hostel great. But the real value is in the things that you can’t see. The vibe is where it’s at. The feeling of the place is that no matter who you are, you’re welcome. Stop, chat, and enjoy the company of other travellers. The spaces at HI are designed to help you meet and mingle.
Strike up a conversation with other guests who are cooking with you side by side, or invite someone to a game of pool. Chances are you’ll be greeted with a smile, engaged with a story, and gain with a new friend. It’s exactly why you stay in a hostel!
The hostel is not only a great value place to stay but it’s also ideally located right in the heart of downtown, it’s within walking distance of public transport as well as places like the Garneau Theatre.
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It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodations in Edmonton
Days Inn Downtown Edmonton
Yes, Days Inn Downtown Edmonton is a hotel, and probably one that you’ve heard of but the rates were so good that we just had to include it on our list. Located in Downtown Edmonton, you’re right at the heart of things. Once you get here you can literally leave your car and walk to just about anywhere, if you’re looking for somewhere to stay in Edmonton on a budget but don’t fancy the hostel, this is a great shout.
Looking for good eats? Some of the best restaurants are right outside the door. Want to have a night out on the town? There’s no need to hail a cab ‘cause you’re where all the action is. Looking to get your culture on? Put on your walking shoes and just head on out. So many of the major places to see in town are just a short walk away. If your destination is a bit further, hop on the LTR (light rail) which has a stop just around the block.
At the Days Inn, you can stay in the lap of luxury with a super comfy bed, cable TV, and the icing on the cake? Your own, private bathroom. Seriously, what’s better than coming back from a day out exploring Edmonton to your own space including the bathroom?! Shower when you want. Pee when you want. No waiting in line to use the facilities!
Quaint & Cosy Accommodation
A Sauna! That’s freaking right yo!! Quaint & Cosy Accommodation is a small bed and breakfast that has a sauna. Hold up, let’s repeat that: it has a bloody sauna. I mean, what better way to relax after a day of hiking or a night touring the pubs!
Let’s just say that for the record this B&B is a great place to stay in Edmonton, even without this added gem. The location is great, the rooms are ideal (private single or double), and the price is just right. But then you add this whole sauna thing in the mix and you’ve smashed it out of the park for a grand slam! Perfect for soothing those muscles after exploring some of the epic Canadian hiking nearby.
So, what’s the catch? Nothing really. The only two things to note are that the bathroom is shared – not that big of a deal. Then there isn’t a kitchen to use. Again, not that big of an issue especially since there is a fridge, microwave, kettle and coffee maker to use so you can make some snacks and keep hydrated at least.
So, you’re pretty much set to keep things cool, warm things up, and get your caffeine fix when you need it. What more could you ask for? Nothing. But they give you a sauna anyway!
The Dewberry Homestay B&B
What more could you want than a cosy place to stay, rates that can’t be beaten, and a free breakfast? Nothing really let’s be honest! Dewberry Homestay is the perfect place to lay your head at night in Edmonton and fill your belly in the morning before heading out for a day of adventure. Some of the best spots to visit in the region are super close by.
Located in the quiet neighbourhood of Elmwood, you can’t help but relax once you retire to your digs. Although it feels like you’re miles away from any cares of the world, not to worry, the hustle and bustle of Edmonton is just a short drive away. It’s probably best to have your own ride when staying here, but there’s onsite free parking, so no worries man!
Dewberry offers a single or double room for rates that are perfect for your travel budget. Sharing the bathroom is really not a huge deal, especially since you’re getting such a cosy stay at the rates like this. Not to mention the perk of free breakfast. That’s always a winner and helps save you even more money!
Cozy Guest Suite
This Cosy Guest Suite is a gem. Hey, let’s count the so many reasons to love it, why the hell not:
1. Separate entrance so you’ll have the place all to yourself.
2. Private bathroom, no sharing here!
3. A full kitchen so you can cook up your own meals and stick to your travel budget. There’s also a dishwasher to help you easily clean up after you have your fill. Now, that I am a fan of! You’ve kinda got Edmonton Airbnb vibes at this place without actually being an Airbnb.
4. It’s pet friendly and there’s a dog park just down the block which will make your pup super happy!
5. Free WiFi and smart tv make it super easy to stay connected and relax by watching your fav shows.
6. It’s located in the Ebbers neighbourhood where it’s super quiet and serene. The free parking makes driving mega convenient. If you’re looking to use public transport, a short walk will get you to the bus stop (2 mins away) or to the LTR light rail (8 mins walk).
7. The price is just right, even for a backpackers budget!
What to Pack for your Edmonton 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!
FAQ about Hostels in Edmonton
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Edmonton.
How much do hostels in Edmonton cost?
Rates at hostels in Edmonton start at about $20. Homestays, Guesthouses and B&Bs run from $30 to $50 typically.
What are the best hostels in Edmonton for couples?
HI Edmonton offers both double bunk bed to snuggle with your partner while keeping it cheap and private rooms if you want some peace and quiet.
What is the best hostel in Edmonton near the airport?
Edmonton International Airport is located 30km south of downtown. So, nearly all places to stay are only a short drive away. The Dewberry Homestay B&B is physically closest, bringing the trip down to only 15km door to door.
Travel Safety Tips for Edmonton
Thankfully Canada is super safe, but it’s always best to be covered when it comes to insurance as you just never know, especially if you’re heading into the mountains.
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.
Final Thoughts on Hostels in Edmonton
There you have it – the best hostels in Edmonton. Okay, yes, it’s really the best hostel in Edmonton and a whole bunch of other places that are a great deal for your money, like guest houses, B&Bs, homestays, and even a traditional hotel.
You can’t go wrong with HI Edmonton. It checks all the boxes on a great place to stay at truly affordable prices. That’s why we had to name it the best overall hostel in Edmonton.
But the truth is, any of the places on our best hostels of Edmonton list will give a great stay at prices that won’t spoil your travel budget.
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Canada for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the beautiful places in Canada covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Edmonton if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Edmonton before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Canada to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
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