Why choose a hostel in Bali?
Few destinations have the pull of Bali. The island draws travellers with its rice terraces, ancient temples, and a culture that feels present in everyday life. Tanah Lot, the centuries-old sea temple perched on a coastal rock, and the royal water palace of Tirta Gangga are two landmarks worth your time. Hostels in Bali put you close to all of it, often in the neighbourhoods where things are actually happening.
Hostels here suit solo travellers, backpackers, and anyone who wants more for their money. Shared dorms keep costs low, while private rooms offer comfort without the price tag of a hotel or private rental. Beyond price, hostels deliver something hotels rarely do: easy connections with other travellers. Common areas and social events mean you'll leave with tips, plans, and sometimes travel companions you didn't arrive with.
How to find the best hostel deals in Bali
Love how effortless it is to compare flights with us? The same smart search engine can track down deals on rooms and hostels too. Use these tips to find fantastic rates fast.
Book in advance
Book early to improve your chances of finding the right hostel at a price that works for you. This is even more important during busy travel periods like school holidays and major festive seasons.
…or bag a last-minute Bali hostel deal.
Things usually get more expensive in the lead-up to your stay. But in off-peak season, last-minute bargains can still pop up when hostels have vacant rooms to fill.
Flexible on dates? Say hello to better rates
If you can be flexible with your dates, compare different months or seasons to find the best deal. Weekdays are often easier on the wallet than weekends, so even a small tweak can save you money.
Where to base yourself in Bali
Kuta is where many travellers staying in hostels in Bali tend to start out. It sits close to the airport and gives you easy access to the beach, surf schools, and a wide range of cheap warungs serving local food. Nights here run late, with bars along the main strip drawing crowds well into the early hours. Scooter hire is cheap and gets you around easily. Ubud suits a slower pace. The town sits inland among rice terraces and is known for its arts scene, with galleries, craft markets, and traditional dance performances most evenings. Plenty of cafes serve simple, affordable meals. Getting between Ubud and the coast takes around an hour by scooter or hired driver. If you plan to split your time between beach days and culture, choosing one area first and exploring the other on a day trip works well.
Best hostels in Bali
Hostels on Skyscanner include ratings from travellers based on real guest reviews. They typically cover key factors like service, location, cleanliness, value for money, and facilities. It makes it easier to find the perfect stay for your trip, whether you're keeping an eye on costs or looking for a bit more comfort.
Best all-rounder hostels
Soni Backpacker House is a crowd-pleaser. From its cleanliness and rooms to its service, this stay ticks the boxes that matter most.
Hostel Karma by Seaom Villas also brings plenty to the table. Guests give it high ratings for its cleanliness, location and its rooms, so you can expect more than just a place to sleep.
Highest-rated hostels for cleanliness
If a clean, comfortable hostel is a priority, Soni Backpacker House won't disappoint. Guests rate it highly for cleanliness, with extras like air conditioning and Wi-Fi.
Well-presented rooms and neat shared spaces are also standard at Hostel Karma by Seaom Villas. Along with good ratings for cleanliness, it offers heating and a safe deposit box.
Hostels with the best customer service
Good hospitality goes a long way at Soni Backpacker House. This hostel in Bali is highly rated for its customer service and comes with an airport shuttle and air conditioning.
Travellers also often highlight the customer service at Hostel Karma by Seaom Villas in their reviews. Tour services and Wi-Fi are some amenities available here.
Centrally located hostels
A handy location is a big part of the appeal at Hostel Karma by Seaom Villas. With Wi-Fi, parking and plenty more, you'll have all you need to feel at home.
Or check out Jero di Bisma Hostel. This well-located stay offers a laundry and a 24-hour front desk.
