I've stayed alone in over 45 hostels across 24 countries. Here are 10 big mistakes I see other travelers make.

Before I book a room, I take a moment to research the type of hostel I'm interested in.

Throughout my travels, I've found I can break most hostels into three categories: party hostels, social hostels, and ghost-town hostels (which I always avoid because they're too empty and isolated). These each offer varying levels of group activities, outings, and comfort. 

Failing to research a hostel thoroughly before booking can lead to a mismatch between expectations and reality. 

Although private rooms sometimes provide additional space, alone time, and personal bathrooms, there are drawbacks to consider. 

By opting for a secluded room, you're potentially isolating yourself and missing out on meeting new people. If your heart is still set on a private room, be sure to venture out to engage with other travelers in the shared social spaces.

I like bigger rooms — usually with eight to 12 beds — as there are more chances to make new friends.

I met one of my closest friends in an eight-bed dorm in Thailand.

The bottom bunk may seem like a confining choice, but it can make a significant difference in comfort.

On the bottom bunk, you can use the under-bed storage and avoid climbing a ladder. Plus, even if the hostel doesn't provide bunk curtains for privacy, it's easy enough to make one out of a towel or sheet when you're on the lower level. 

I've slept on a few top bunks that don't even have side barriers, so I always find them a little more questionable. I usually ask for the bottom bunk at the check-in desk or in a "special requests" entry on the reservation. 

Although it's tempting to choose a hostel solely based on price, try to consider the surrounding area and its suitability for your plans.

Things to consider include the relative safety of the area and its distance from attractions and restaurants.

Choosing a place outside of your planned route can lead to extra transportation costs and less time to explore.

Hostel reviews tell me what I need to know before my stay.

Instead of relying on overall ratings, I like to focus on recent reviews that provide current insights. Things to look out for include the hostel's cleanliness, atmosphere, staff friendliness, and available activities.

Most hostel etiquette seems like common sense — keeping your space clean, taking phone calls outside of the dorm. But you'd be surprised at how many people unknowingly disregard it. 

The most important rule, in my opinion, is staying quiet during quiet hours. Others include keeping lights off when others are sleeping and using headphones instead of playing audio out loud.

Most hostels have amazing activities and event boards available for guests. These exist for a reason — it's the best opportunity to meet new people and explore the local area.

The most common activity is a classic bar crawl. But don't worry, if you're a nondrinker like me, almost every hostel offers free tours and some form of activity like a local cooking class. 

Sometimes hostels have unexpected disruptions, such as lights being switched on in the night or lively groups returning from a wild night out. 

For those who value their sleep, packing a sleep mask and earplugs can ensure a more restful night no matter what antics occur in the room. I always pack them for my trips. 

In my experience, hostels are can be safe places with kind travelers — but I'll still never leave any belongings unattended. 

To protect my valuables, I bring a padlock and make use of the provided lockers in the dorms. In cases where I've felt the need to be extra cautious, I've also slept with my phone under my pillow.