Do your research before you book a private room at a hostel! For, the assumption that private hostel rooms are cheaper than hotels is NOT true. If you are willing to share a hotel room, your travel can be much cheaper. However, in many cases, upgrading to a private hostel room can be the same price - or more - as a hotel room. This is especially true if you are traveling solo, since hostels will charge your room based on a double occupancy.