Hostels

What is the best/cheapest way to book hostels?

Online V. inperson?
In advanced or on the go?
Pros and Cons of different booking methods?

Plus, what is typically the best method of payment when staying in hostels?

Any posts would be greatly appreciated.

Don't wait for them to nemail you. They're too busy with people in person.

Pay in cash. Use atm and don't gamble on credit card abuse. Atms give best exchange rate.

Money belt!!!!!
Never carry more cash on you, than you can afford to lose.
All guidebooks have chapters on travel security. They all say money belt orsoething like it.

Many Europeans carry an over the shoulder and head to other shoulder.. get it? Zip purse. And keep it zipped.

And now for a differing opinion.

I don't ever pay in cash (unless they don't accept credit cards). I only use cc's. There is no reason to worry about credit card fraud as long as you check your cc bill each month when it arrives. If abuse occurs and you notify your cc company you have zero liability. If you use your cc to pay you have recourse if something goes wrong. You can dispute the charge and get your money back. Try that after having paid with cash and you'll get nowhere. Also, if you use your cc it will reduce the amount of cash you need to carry and / or withdrawal from the ATM.

The best way to book depends upon your travel style, where you are and when. If you're traveling to a popular destination during peak season you'll need to make advance reservations, typically over the Internet. If you prefer not to plan things out to much and you're able to wait until you arrive, it allows you to preview the property and your room to make sure it's satisfactory. Also, if they are hurting for business you can generally bargain more effectively as a walk-in who could easily turn around and walk out.

Of course, these are just generalities and specific situations may differ.

Good luck.

It rather depends on where you're going.
If Asia or Africa, there is no need to book in advance, you can almost always just find a place to stay when you arrive (festivals and especially busy times apart).
For peace of mind, I like to book in advance for the 1st night after my flight (and get the hotel to pick me up at the airport too), but other than that, I think it is better to see the room before deciding whether or not to stay.
Many of the cheapest places don't have a website or use hostelbookers, etc - and also many of these won't take a credit card, so have some local currency with you.

Many hostels in E.Europe will accept a booking without any advance payment. This saves a bit on losing deposits if you cant get there.

lake, I like your way.

I've always respected and enjoyed your posts as well Mr gawk. Slightly different perspectives always allows the OP to get different viewpoints and learn more.

Safe travels.

WoW! thanks. Support your local expat.

stay curious. go slow and get more for your money and growth.

I usually look for accommodation on arrival unless traveling within Europe or landing in a big city in South America. I might have browsed online before arriving, but pay cash when there- many times I was on my way to a place I had found online and ended up staying in a better/cheaper place because of a tout's suggestion or info I get on the way.

Federico
www.maitravelsite.com</a>

I just taked to an old black guy, here in South Austin. I'm on vacation.

I said I think this economic craziness, we're having might do us more good than harm in the long run. We'll get things back in perspective. People helping people. Like "the humanity" in Spain.

He said, yeah. I tell my kids, "If I had a banty rooster. And you had three hens. We'd never run outta eggs."

I love it! It would make a great letterhead.

I normally book in advance if I'm going somewhere that I know will be busy, or if I am arriving late at night or early in the morning after a long flight and I know I won't be in a fit state to wander around looking for accommodation. Or if I'm going somewhere I've been before and want to stay in specific accommodation.

Otherwise I'd rather see a room before I agree to take it. You can always check the online price, and haggle once you're seen the room and decided you like it.

I almost always pay in cash overseas. On a long trip I might not be able to access my credit card bill every month, or be able to contact my bank without a lot of hassle and expense.

depends where and when you are; for instance in New Zealand you've not much chance of rocking up to a hostel in Queenstown or Wanaka and finding any space, whereas other places always have room. Some take credit cards, some don't; many prefer cash payment but take a credit card number to hold the booking in case you don't turn up.

Would it be wise to book ahead for W. Europe this October?

Western Europe is a big area. Are we talking Munich during Octoberfest or central Spain?

With the exception of peak demand places and times, in my opinion the answer lies within you and your travel style.

Some folks are very comfortable allowing their plans to evolve as they go, make decisions on the fly and feel comfortable allowing for maximum flexibility, even if it involves some sacrifice.

Others are only comfortable if things are all buttoned up and decided before they take off. They will gladly trade certainty for flexibility. You know yourself and your travel preferences. Act accordingly.

Good luck.

Laketraveller, I am planning on staying in Madrid, Bilbao, Paris, Normandy, Berlin, Munich and London. I think I will try and find a balance between planning ahead and flying by the seat of my pants.