Austin is so much more than just the capital of the lone star state. This city not only encompasses all things Texan but is also known as the center for live music in the United States.
While traveling through the United States, Texas is sure to catch your attention with its vibrant western culture and cowboy lifestyle. When you get tired of the country life, Austin will flip the tables on you, flaunting off its lively nightlife, world-famous live music, and small-time charm while staying in the big city
People don’t travel to the United States to save money, so don’t expect it to be any different in Austin. Despite not being a backpacker-friendly destination, the places available still offer a true hostel experience in the city!
With very few hostels, picking a place to base yourself out of when exploring and partying your way through Austin can be a hassle.
You can now rest easy! We made this guide so that YOU can find that one perfect hostel in no other than Austin, Texas!
Get your spurs and cowboy boots on and get ready to boot-scoot into the center of the lone star state!
So peep our guide to the top hostels in Austin below!
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The Best Hostels in Austin
For you country bumpkins or hippie hipsters, Austin is a true mix of authentic Texan culture and modern youth trends. Other than its rich history and vibrant culture, Austin also is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the whole country!
Despite Austin being known as the Hippie Haven by the more conservative Texans, Austin still has not embraced itself as a true backpacker destination. The few overpriced hostels are sure to deter many travelers from putting the live music capital on their itineraries. Therefore, deciding where to stay in Austin can be painful.
Don’t miss out on a trip of a lifetime just because it is hard to find a cheap bed! We have put together the best places to stay in Austin to suit a backpacker’s lifestyle here! Now you can worry less about hostels and pay more attention to experiencing the true Texan culture!
Firehouse Hostel
At Firehouse Hostel you are literally staying in a piece of American history! The hostel is located in the oldest firehouse which was built all the way back in 1885.
Today, the hostel has its own speakeasy-style cocktail bar, shared kitchen, and spacious lounges. With the hostel’s chill vibe and open atmosphere, Firehouse is the best place to just hang out and meet other backpackers. The bar, lounges, and welcoming staff make Firehouse the best hostel in Austin for solo travelers!
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
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 Budget Stays in Austin
Not found the hostel for you yet? Well unfortunately you’re out of luck! The Austin hostel scene isn’t exactly buzzing—that’s why I’ve sorted you out and listed some of my favorite budget stays for ya as well!
Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown-Convention Center
The Hilton Garden Inn, just steps from the buzz of Sixth Street, is a comfortable and convenient three-star gem. With 254 spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, a lively in-house bar, and a fantastic on-site restaurant, it’s got everything you need for a laid-back stay. Plus, some of Austin’s top attractions are practically on your doorstep.
The 18th-floor bar serves up awesome views alongside your drink of choice, and the location puts you right in the mix of the city’s highlights. It’s not the swankiest of hotels but if you’re on a budget, it’s a solid pick.
Hilton Austin
The Hilton Austin knows how to spoil its guests with rooftop pool vibes, sweeping city views, a fitness centre, and a lineup of on-site dining that hits all the right notes. Smack bang in central Austin, it’s perfectly placed for soaking up the city’s culture by day and diving into the Rainey Street nightlife by night.
Rooms are stylish and comfy, with some offering skyline views to go with your morning coffee—or whatever cure you need. From Texas-inspired plates at Cannon + Belle to creative tacos at Austin Taco Project, this place is Austin down to a T.
Hyatt Regency Austin
The Hyatt Regency Austin serves up waterfront views and laid-back luxury right on Ladybird Lake. Spacious rooms come with modern comforts and dazzling views, making it an ideal crash pad after a night exploring Rainey Street.
The outdoor pool, sundeck, and 24-hour fitness centre keep things breezy, whether you’re detoxing or re-toxing. The staff are attentive and friendly, ensuring your stay is as seamless as possible. With city lights twinkling in the background and a vibe that screams chill, it’s the perfect spot to recover from one too many cocktails—or get ready to do it all over again.
Orangewood Inn and Suites Midtown
Orangewood Inn and Suites Midtown is probably one of the nicer hotels you will find in this price range this close to central Austin. The rooms are astonishingly clean and smell aaaamazing. The staff are super friendly and there’s around the clock security too which makes things feel safe and secure.
One thing you can’t miss is the breakfast that Margarita makes in the morning. From fluffy eggs to golden waffles, her morning spread might just steal the show—and maybe even your heart.
Magical Tiny Home • Hyde Park
This place is on par with pricing of hostels in Austin. Considering you get your own tiny home, I’d call this place a steal. Equipped with a clean, well-stocked bathroom and kitchen, it has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
While it’s a bit removed from downtown, the location is quiet, and getting to the city centre is a breeze with public transport—just 15-20 minutes and you’re there. The surrounding area is peaceful with great restaurants, and Molly, the host, goes above and beyond, even letting guests store their luggage well after check out so you can keep exploring the city.
Brand new, Private Studio close to Downtown Austin
This is another great budget stay where not only do you get your own space but you’re own tiny house! The house is brand new, impeccably maintained, and has everything you need for a comfortable stay. The host is incredibly thoughtful and makes guests feel truly welcome. It’s tucked away in the backyard of the main house, so you’ve got your own entry and zero interruptions.
Getting to everything is a breeze, whether you’re walking or taking a quick drive. Expect a friendly host, one of the cleanest Airbnbs you can stumble across and a cozy end to the day of city adventures.
Motel 6 Austin South
If you are at the end of your trip, you might need to find someplace close to the airport.
Motel 6 is one of the closest places near the airport for a cheap price. This hotel’s rooms include a TV, desk, and access to the swimming pool. Other than being close to the airport there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from nearby.
Hostel Sua Casinha
Sua Casinha is one of the newest hostels in town, offering budget beds along with a laid-back atmosphere.
This hostel also has a backyard with a fire pit, hammocks, outdoor lounge. Other than Sua Casinha’s outdoor terrace, the hostel also has a shared kitchen, movie nights, and games for guests to use at their leisure.
Quality Inn & Suites Airport Austin
If you are looking to pay a few extra dollars for a more comfortable stay near the airport, you can’t go wrong with Quality Inn. On top of comfortable spacious rooms, the hotel offers tons of perks such as a pool, gym, dining room, and a free shuttle to the airport.
What to Pack for your Austin 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 our definitive Hostel Packing list for our top packing tips!
Why you should travel to Austin
Austin has a lot to offer backpackers from its live music, bars, and rich history. What the city lacks, however, is budget hostels for young travelers. The hostels that are available do dazzle guests with their artsy decor and even some with their history.
While not the cheapest place in town, Firehouse Hostel treats its guests with reasonable beds with a youthful atmosphere in one of Austin’s most historic buildings in town!
Get ready for some late nights exploring Austin’s vibrant music scene with a dash of local culture, making your Texan adventure a trip to remember for a lifetime!
FAQ about Hostels in Austin
Here are some questions backpackers ask about hostels in Austin.
How much does a hostel cost in Austin?
The average price of hostels in Austin starts from $24 – $40+ per night. Of course, the private rooms are on the higher end of the scale than the dorm beds.
What are the best hostels in Austin for couples?
Firehouse Hostel is an ideal hostel for couples in Austin. It’s clean, comfy, and in a great location.
What are the best hostels in Austin near the airport?
Firehouse Hostel is just a 16-minute drive from the airport. It has a great location and is close to the bus stops for all the major bus routes, including the airport.
Travel Safety Tips for Austin
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.
More Epic Hostels in USA and North America
Hopefully by now you’ve found the perfect hostel for your upcoming trip to Austin.
Planning an epic trip all across USA or even North America itself?
Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
For more cool hostel guides around North America, check out:
Over to you
By now I hope our epic guide to the best hostels in Austin has helped you choose the perfect hostel for your adventure!
If you think we’ve missed anything or have any further thoughts, hit us up in the comments!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Austin for a wealth of info!
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Austin covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Austin if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Austin before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for USA to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate USA backpacking guide.
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