In any foreign country, though, it is important, I feel, to be careful and take precautions. These precautions include a waist belt, both at night and during the day, and bringing a lock for the storage room and luggage. Even though she loved the interesting people brought together by hostels and the lower cost, lack of privacy was the number one concern for senior Lisa Bate in her European hostel experiences. For this reason, Bate said she took ear plugs and a sleeping mask. Along with privacy, another concern of those hostelling is the noise.
Roommates get up to go to the bathroom or have the music in their headsets playing too loudly.
Even though the custom is to be as quiet as possible, there will always be noise. Most travelers find they get used to these noises after their first few days, according to The Internet Guide to Hostelling. The website also suggests that a quick tap or whisper will make most snorers turn over and quiet down. Besides common courtesy, hostels expect visitors to respect their rules. Upon check-in, ask what rules apply to guests.