Each hostel is different. Most offer basic dorm-like accommodations with community showers and bathrooms. The Internet Guide to Hosteling includes the Worldwide Hostel Guide, which is perhaps the largest database of hostels available. Because hostels are often run by different organizations, finding one where you want to stay can be difficult if you do not know their affiliation. The Worldwide Hostel Guide eliminates the need to know that information and lists almost all hostels, both in the United States and around the world.
Rail travel is by far the most popular form of transportation.
Eurail passes allow unlimited travel in 17 European countries. Passes are much less expensive for travelers under the age of 26. The Eurobus is a newer form of travel in Europe. Both Eurail and Eurobus passes must be purchased before leaving the United States. Traveling to and in Europe is expensive no matter how old the traveler is, but students have many discount opportunities to choose from.