Thailand is arguably the best backpacking destination in the world. The OG, an off-the-beaten-track adventure for young explorers keen to expand their horizons and earn their rightful travel badges. Thailand sits high on the bucket list of every intrepid wanderer.
Being so well set up for travellers means that there are a hell of a lot of choices in Thailand for everything. Figuring out where to start and where to go can be a struggle.
But we, backpackers, know that the biggest and most important decision, that can literally make or break your trip is…… which hostel you’re going to stay at!
Don’t you worry, fellow globe trotter – that is exactly why I’ve created this ultimate guide to the 20 BEST hostels in Thailand. So wipe that bead of sweat from your forehead, there is no need to stress…
Whether you’re a city slicker bound for Bangkok or you’re an old soul hippy eager to hitchhike to Pai, Thailand is ready and waiting for you with some insane hostels.
So, let’s find the perfect hostel for you in Thailand.
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
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Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Thailand
- Best Overall Hostel in Thailand – Lub d Phuket Patong – Phuket
- Best Hostel in Thailand for Solo Travelers – Stamps Backpackers – Chiang Mai
- Best Cheap Hostel in Thailand – Revolution Hostel, Pai
- Best Party Hostel in Thailand – Mad Monkey Bangkok
- Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Thailand – Luk Hostel, Bangkok
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
The 5 Best Hostels in Thailand
Need help deciding where to stay in Thailand for your upcoming trip? These are without a doubt the BEST hostels in Thailand. Whether you’re heading north, south or central… I’ve got ya covered with the creme de la creme of hostels in Thailand.
Let’s dive into the ultimate hostels in Thailand to transform your backpacking trip from decent to fucking legendary.
1. Lub d Phuket Patong – Phuket – Best Overall Hostel in Thailand
- Dorm (mixed): From $16/night
- Private Room: From $44/night
- Address: 5/5 Sawatdirak Road, Kathu, Phuket, 83150 Patong Beach, Thailand
Lud d Phuket Patong is without a doubt one of the best hostels to stay for anyone travelling in Thailand. This classy, shiny, magical and unicorn of a hostel is not to be missed if you’re heading to Phuket.
The swimming pool is perhaps the most exciting feature of the hostel, but then again the bar and cafe are pretty damn cool too. The beach is also only a 3-minute walk away. So you can pop to the beach for a dip and then head back to the hostel for another… not a bad life, eh.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Swimming pool
- Daily social events
- Social vibes
- Great Location (close to the beach)
- Coworking space
So, I’ve covered those who want to socialise, and those who want to chill by the beach but you know who else this hostel welcomes? Digital nomads! Lud d Pukhet Patong also provides a co-working space for those who like to mix business with pleasure.
From pub crawls to games night, this hostel has loads of activities for you to part-take in. The dorms are clean and comfy… honestly, I couldn’t ask for more when it comes to a hostel in Thailand.
2. Stamps Backpackers – Chiang Mai – Best Hostel in Thailand for Solo Travelers
- Dorm (mixed): From $12/night
- Address: 1, 11 Chaiyapoom Rd, Tambon Si Phum, Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai 50300, Thailand
Stamps Backpackers is the best hostel if you’re solo travelling in Thailand and you’re down to meet fellow travellers. Thailand is an exceptionally easy country for solo travellers and Stamps Backpackers is a prime example of this. This warm and welcoming hostel is busy and buzzing all year round.
I love that Stamps Backpackers makes it easy for you to get involved, socialise and meet new people without the pressure of it being a full-blown party hostel. Thank you, Stamps <3
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Awesome social events
- On-site bar
- Comfy rooms
- Great location
The bar and cafe are a good starting point if you’re looking to get chatting. In all fairness though, the open and homely hostel dorms themselves are as good of a place as any to strike up a conversation. As a guest, you’ll have access to your own security locker.
One Thailand travel tip I can give you when it comes to Stamps is to get in quick! This hostel sells out, especially in the high season. However, even if you miss out on a bed, the legends at Stamps will still let you join in on the fun. They are cool like that :))
3. Revolution Hostel, Pai – Best Cheap Hostel in Thailand
- Dorm (mixed): From $6/night
- Private Room: From $18/night
- Address: 76 Moo 3 Tambon Viengtai Maehongsorn, 58130 Pai, Thailand
When it comes to cheap hostels in Thailand, there are PLENTY to choose from. Most hostels are scored for less than $10 per night… yep, it’s no surprise that backpackers have been flocking to Thailand for years.
If you’re travelling to Thailand on a shoestring budget, even saving just a few bucks a night can make a world of difference… so on that note, let me introduce you to Revolution Hostel in Pai. These guys are incredible value for money but do not skim on the fun times offered.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Great bang for buck
- Lots of hostel dogs around
- Close to the walking street
- Plenty of tours and activities to join
Revolution Hostel prides itself on providing an action-packed, adventure of a time – but be warned, this is a party hostel guys! So if you’re down to sink a couple of buckets, make a few mates and potentially float down a river with a couple of hundred other backpackers… this hostel can be a hell of a lot of fun.
From pub crawls, pool parties, tubing trips, foam parties, and canyon tours – these guys are a ‘go hard, adventure hard’ kinda place.
However, if you’re after a more relaxed vibe or need an early night… this might not be the spot for you.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
View on Osprey View on REI4. Mad Monkey Bangkok – Best Party Hostel in Thailand
- Dorm (mixed): From $14/night
- Private Room: From $59/night
- Address: 55 Phra Sumen Road, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok, Thailand
For many backpackers, this won’t be your first introduction to Mad Monkey. These guys are pretty high up in the hostel kingdom. And when it comes to the BEST party hostel in Thailand, it’s tough to look beyond the epic nights out provided by the legendary team at Mad Monkey, Bangkok.
The on-site bar and pub crawls roll into a pretty wild night out. If you’ve touched down in Bangkok and are craving a few too many Chang’s… this is your place.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- EPIC pub crawls to the famous Khaosan Road
- Free welcome drink
- Swimming pool on-site
- Comfy beds
After a night out in Bangkok, the only way to semi-revive yourself is with a dive in the pool… and Mad Monkey provides a decent-sized pool of water to dive into. If you can’t seem to bring yourself out of bed (I feel ya, Khao San Road can have that impact)… the beds are surprisingly super comfy. Again, ideal for a hung-over day.
If you are up for exploring, you’re also in a banger of a location to get a dose of tourist attractions in during your stay.
5. Luk Hostel, Bangkok – Best Hostel for Digital Nomads in Thailand
- Dorm (mixed): From $10/night
- Private Room: From $24/night
- Address: 382, 384-386 Vanich 1 Rd, Chakkrawat, Samphanthawong, Bangkok
The best hostel in Thailand for digital nomads is Luk Hostel in Bangkok. Bangkok itself is a great place for nomads, but there is something special about Luk Hostel (maybe it’s the free egg sandwiches… I can’t be sure).
The hostel has been designed exclusively with digital nomads in mind. Offering super affordable accommodation and free access to coworking space, Luk Hostel is light years ahead of its time.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Coworking space
- Organised events: trips to the local food markets, FREE live Muay Thai fights, & more.
- Relax, chill vibes
- Rooftop bar
- FREE EGG SANDWICHES?!
Digital nomads, if you were unsure about staying in Bangkok consider your mind made up. You don’t want to miss out on the chance to connect with so many like-minded nomads in this mini-nomad paradise.
There is a social vibe but not a party feel here. The hostel organises trips to the local food markets, Muay Thai matches and more. You can shit done in the co-working space and then crash out with a casual beer. The nomad dream!
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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!More Epic Thailand Hostels
6. The Famous Pai Circus Hostel – Pai
- Dorm (mixed): From $6/night
- Private Room: From $12/night
- Address: 323 M.1 T.Mae Hee, Mae Hong Son, 58130 Pai, Thailand
The Famous Pai Circus Hostel is THE coolest hostel in Thailand. This badass hostel is like a big dysfunctional family. Sleep in and stay up late, party the night away and dabble with circus skills during the day – The Famous Pai Circus Hostel is non-stop fun.
There is an in-house cafe and a bar. The garden is massive and even has a swimming pool. Pai is the kind of place where you intend on staying a couple of nights and end up staying a month… or more. My advice, book two extra nights when you reserve your bed here.
7. Coco Khao Sok Hostel – Khao Sok
- Dorm (mixed): From $10/night
- Address: 389/1 Moo 6, Phanom, Surat Thani, 84250 Khao Sok, Thailand
Coco Khao Sok is a top hostel for budget-conscious backpackers trying to keep their travel budget in Thailand from blowing out. Offering super affordable accommodation in this off-the-beaten-track destination, Coco Khao Sok is a great find.
This is a simple hostel with a friendly and open atmosphere. There are plenty of spaces to enjoy with your new hostel buddies. The dorms are generous in size. Then there is the common room, the cafe, and the outdoor terrace too.
The room rates include access to the hostel’s WiFi and free information from the tours and travel desk. FYI – the bakery has some tasty AF treats!
8. P&T Hostel – Koh Samui
- Dorm (mixed): From $8/night
- Private Room: From $17/night
- Address: 73/46-47 Moo 4 Bang Rak, Bophut, Koh Samui, 84320 Bangrak Beach, Thailand
P&T Hostel in Koh Samui is a brilliant youth hostel in Thailand for money-savvy travellers. P&T Hostel offers affordable hostel dorms and private rooms too. Each dorm and private room has its own private ensuite bathroom so there are never any queues for the showers.
Although cheap P&T Hostel hasn’t compromised on their standards. The hostel is always super clean and the staff are friendly and welcoming. The late check-out service is a treat, especially if you’ve partied hard Samui-style the night before. All rooms have air conditioning too. Rejoice!
9. Sam’s House – Kanchanaburi
- Private Room: From $21/night
- Address: 14/2 Maenamkwae Rd. Tumbon Thamakham Amphur-Muang, 71000 Kanchanaburi, Thailand
Sam’s House is one of the best hostels in Kanchanaburi for couples and definitely one of the best hostels in Thailand as well. This gorgeous little hostel has more of a local guesthouse feel and will provide you and your lover with the most beautiful retreat.
The private rooms offer a comfortable double bed, private bathroom, and air conditioning. The rooms are generous in size, so you can both have the space you need.
The garden area is a cute space, ideal for catching up on the travel journal or simply sitting back and soaking up the rays. Kanchanaburi is famous for the Bridge Over the River Kwai.
10. Slow Life Sabaidee Pai Bed & Breakfast – Pai
- Private Room: From $18/night
- Address: 815 Moo.8 Viengtai T. Viengtai Pai Maehongson, 58130 Pai, Thailand
Slow Life Sabaidee Pai Bed & Breakfast is a fantastic hostel in Thailand for couples. Laid back, chilled out and welcoming beyond belief, you and your lover will fit right in at Slow Life Sabaidee.
When you’re travelling it is easy to rush from one thing to the next. Why not take the opportunity to have a few lazy days in Pai at Slow Life? It’s slow by name and by nature – it’s dreamy!
The swimming pool is a great place to spend a chilled-out afternoon. If you do want to get out and about just ask the staff about hiring motorcycles. It’s a great way to explore the incredible things to do in Pai!
11. Phangan Arena – Koh Phangan
- Dorm (mixed): From $5/night
- Private Room: From $21/night
- Address: 111 Moo 1 Bantai Koh Phangan, 84280 Baan Tai, Thailand
Phangan Arena is next level, people! This party palace is the only place to stay in Koh Phangan if you want to have a complete backpacker full-moon party experience. Things get freaky here on the full moon and won’t want to miss out!
The swimming pool is open til late and most nights turn into a pool party. The tunes are pumping night and day, and the bar is rocking from early until… well… early – it’s open 24/7. There are two football pitches and a basketball court too. This hostel really is an arena. You’ll never want to leave!
Full moon or no full moon, Phangan Arena is a winner.
12. Niras Bankroc Cultural Hostel – Bangkok
- Dorm (mixed): From $14/night
- Private Room: From $37/night
- Address: 204-206 Mahachai Road, Sumranrat, Phra-Nakorn, Phra Nakhon, 10200 Bangkok, Thailand
Niras Bankroc Cultural Hostel is a fantastic Thailand backpackers hostel with private rooms. Offering travellers an authentic Thai experience, guests are invited to join regular events like the Thai Tea Workshop and other cultural immersion experiences.
The private rooms offer air conditioning and access to WiFi. The decor is super stylish and more like what you’d expect to find in a boutique hotel than a backpackers hostel. Niras Bankroc Cultural Hostel is within walking distance of must-visit landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Pho.
Talking about location, another digital nomad heaven I highly recommend is Here Hostel. Just a 10-minute walk from the Khao San Road, there’s a lot to see out there.
13. Borbaboom Poshtel – Phuket
- Dorm (mixed): From $14/night
- Private Room: From $35/night
- Address: 73/1-2 Ratsada Road Amphoe Muang Phuket, Phuket, Thailand 83000, 83000 Phuket Town, Thailand
Borbaboom Posthtel is very posh indeed. This super chic hostel is perfect for all you flashpackers who want a private room and a Thailand backpackers hostel experience. You can have your cake and eat it too… all while chilling by the swimming pool!
Set in a great location to stay in Phuket you’ll be close to both the beaches and Phuket Old Town. Get ready to go shopping! There is so much to explore in Phuket and the helpful team at the tours and travel desk will be more than happy to help you design an itinerary that suits you and your VIP needs.
14. Baan Heart Thai – Chiang Mai
- Dorm (mixed): From $10/night
- Address: 1/8 – 1/9 Chaiyapoom Soi1, Si phum, Chang Moi, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
Baan Heart Thai Hostel in Chiang Mai is one of the best budget hostels in Thailand. If you’re on a really tight budget this is a great option as breakfast is included in your room rate. We all know you can’t turn down a free feed when you’re travelling on a shoestring.
Baan Heart Thai is also really close to the local food markets and the wonderful staff at the tours and travel desk will be more than happy to point you in the direction. Baan Heart Thai is not a party hostel. If you’re keen on an authentic and affordable backpacker experience, book now.
15. ROOM@Vipa – Bangkok
- Private Room: From $19/night
- Address: Vibhawadee 44 Ladyao Chatujak, Chatuchak, 10900 Bangkok, Thailand
ROOM@Vipa in Bangkok is a highly recommended hostel in Thailand for couples. With private rooms available for reasonable rates throughout the year, if you’re landing in Thailand after a long flight, opting for a private room is a great shout.
The hostel offers a FREE breakfast, FREE WiFi and FREE toiletries included in the private bathrooms (yay for free things!) There is a hotel-like feel to the private rooms but a solid hostel vibe to the rest of the place. The bar and cafe are great spots for meeting fellow travellers in Bangkok.
16. The Memory at On On Hotel – Phuket
- Private Room: From $42/night
- Address: 19 Phang-Nga Road, Talad Yai, Muang, Phuket , 83000 Phuket Town, Thailand
The Memory at On On Hotel in Phuket is the coolest hostel in Phuket for couples. This new hostel has great facilities and a great sociable vibe. For couples keen to mingle but also want the option to retreat to a private room, The Memory at On On Hotel is perfect.
The staff are super helpful and can help you arrange everything from island hopping day trips to airport transfers and more at the in-house tours and travel desk. Set in the heart of Phuket Old Town the romantic night markets and backpacker bars are right on your doorstep.
17. Aforetime Beach House – Koh Samui
- Dorm (mixed): From $11/night
- Private Room: From $21/night
- Address: 35, 84140 Taling Ngam Beach, Thailand
Aforetime Beach House is the best hostel in Thailand with private rooms if you are heading to Koh Samui. The traditional guesthouse offers gorgeous private rooms and a real sense of community. The house has just four rooms available and as such is an intimate affair. Ideal for travellers who want to keep themselves to themselves for a bit.
Whatever your Koh Samui itinerary, this is a great spot to crash. The beach is only a stone’s throw away and the staff can help you arrange all your tours and activities from the desk in-house. They are really approachable so don’t be afraid to ask for some help!
18. KoHabitat Samui – Koh Samui
- Dorm (mixed): From $9/night
- Address: 120/29 Moo 1 Bophut, Koh Samui, Surat Thani, 84320 Bophut , Thailand
The best hostel in Thailand for digital nomads is KoHabitat in Koh Samui. Offering super affordable accommodation and free access to coworking space, KoHabitiat Samui is light years ahead of its time.
Digital nomads if you were unsure about staying in Koh Samui consider your mind made up. You don’t want to miss out on the chance to connect with so many like-minded nomads.
There is a sociable vibe but not a party feel here. You can get your work done in peace and then crash out with a casual beer. Perfect!
19. Diff Hostel – Bangkok
- Dorm (mixed): From $15/night
- Private Room: From $52/night
- Address: 236/41 Soi Senakit, Phayathai Road, Thung Phayathai, Ratchathewi, Ratchathewi, 10400 Bangkok, Thailand
This gem of a hostel provides backpackers travelling in Bangkok with the perfect introduction to the land of smiles. Offering everything from a free breakfast to a games room and everything in between. Diff Hostel sets the standards high and delivers every single time.
Each and every dorm bed has its own reading light, USB charging port and universal electricity socket too. The dorms are cosy but offer enough space for everyone to feel comfortable. There is air conditioning throughout the hostel which is essential for travellers arriving in the east for the first time.
20. Baan Baan Hostel – Phuket
- Dorm (mixed): From $10/night
- Private Room: From $28/night
- Address: 41, 43 Chakrabongse Rd, Banglumphoo, Phra Nakhon, Bangkok 10200, Thailand
One of the best cheap hostels in Thailand is Baan Baan Hostel in Phuket. Not a party hostel by any stretch, Baan Baan Hostel provides broke backpackers with a clean and comfortable place to stay. Offering a self-catering kitchen, free WiFi and a free breakfast too, Baan Baan Hostel meets all the essential criteria.
‘Baan’ means house in Thai and ‘baan baan’ means to relax. This super homely and ultra-relaxed hostel is ideal for travellers on a shoestring in Thailand. If you’re looking to explore the best places in Phuket, which crash in a cheaper accom…. here’s your spot. Value for money is through the roof!
Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting Thailand
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 Thailand.
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 Thailand
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Thailand.
What to Pack for your Thailand 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!
Final Thoughts on Thailand’s Hostels
By now I hope my epic guide to the best hostels in Thailand has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure! As you’ve seen, there is absolutely no shortage of hotels to choose from in Thailand. Being the OG backpacker hub, the road has been well paved and there are a crazy amount of hostels to pick from.
This narrowed-down list will hopefully have helped you to decide which hostel is best for YOU and YOUR needs. If you’re still unsure, I’d go with my top overall pick: Lub d Phuket Patong – Phuket. If you need a refresher on why it is the best… well, it’s a three-minute walk from the beach, there’s a swimming pool on-site, they have EPIC social events, there’s a co-working space… need I go on?
Anyway, wherever you end up, I hope you have the adventure of a lifetime, make some wild memories and meet some fucking cool people.
If you think I’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit up the comments!
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Thailand for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Thailand covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Thailand if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Thailand before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for Thailand to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate Southeast Asia backpacking guide.
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