What is the Difference Between a Coliving Space and a Hostel?

When it comes to modern travel backpacking and communal living, the terms "coliving space" and "hostel" often get intertwined and sometimes even used interchangeably. Yes, they are VERY similar but there are some unique characteristics to both.

 

What is the Difference Between a Coliving Space and a Hostel?

Coliving Spaces

What is coliving space?

A coliving space is an accommodation where individuals rent furnished rooms and share common areas, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among residents.

Coliving spaces have emerged as a popular option for Digital Nomads, remote workers, and individuals seeking a sense of community while maintaining a flexible lifestyle.

What do coliving spaces offer?

Community Focus:

One of the defining features of coliving spaces is their emphasis on fostering a sense of community. Residents often engage in shared activities, could collaborate on projects, and form lasting connections with like-minded individuals.

Comfort and Privacy:

Unlike traditional hostels, coliving spaces often prioritize comfort and privacy. Residents typically have their own private or semi-private rooms, with shared common areas such as kitchens, lounges, and workspaces. You may also find a lot of little nooks and crannies for Digital Nomads to post up to get some work done.

Amenities and Services:

Coliving spaces are known for their extensive amenities and services tailored more to the needs of remote workers and digital nomads. These may include high-speed internet, coworking spaces, office equipment, fitness facilities, and regular community events.

Long-term Stays:

While some coliving spaces offer short-term accommodations, the majority cater to individuals looking for more extended stays. Longer stays help build a community of folks that aren't so transient. You may find minimum stay lengths that could range from a few weeks to several months.

Coliving MUST HAVE accessories: portable wifi hotspot, cable organiser pouch, a travel towel, and a universal plug adopter.

Hostels

What is a hostel?

A hostel is an accommodation offering economical lodging typically characterized by dormitory-style rooms and shared facilities.

Hostels have long been a staple of budget travel, providing affordable accommodation options for travel backpackers, solo travelers, and even groups. 

What do hostels offer?

Affordability:

Hostels are renowned for their budget-friendly accommodation options, making them ideal for Travel Backpackers looking to stretch their funds while exploring new destinations.

Traditionally, hostels were for Budget Backpackers. However, with the rise of Digital Nomads and Flash Packers looking for flexible and social accomodations, hostel prices have only been increasing. Not to mention AI-powered pricing software as well. However, they are still the most ecnomical accomodation options; especailly for last minute reservations.

Shared Sleeping Spaces:

Unlike coliving spaces, where privacy is often prioritized, hostels typically offer shared dormitory-style rooms, where guests share sleeping quarters with other guests. 

Social Atmosphere:

Hostel common areas are known for their vibrant and social atmosphere, where travelers from all walks of life come together to socialize. Even though many Digital Nomads stay at hostels, often the common areas at hostels aren't exactly prioritized for remote work.

Short-term Stays:

While some hostels may accommodate long-term guests, they primarily cater to short-term stays, with guests often staying for a few nights or a week at most. There may even be a cap for how many nights you can stay at a hostel.

Diverse Clientele:

Hostels attract a diverse clientele, where you can find all types of Travel Backpackers who are all seeking a sociable environment and a flexible accommodation. This diversity adds to the richness of the hostel experience.

• A Digital Nomad may look for a hostel that is dedicated to remote workers and have legitimate work space and high speed internet.
• A Backpacker Volunteer may reach out to a hostel to volunteer working for them or teach a class. In fact, most people that you will come across working at a hostel, are volunteers.
• A Flash Packer may be interested in hostels that are equipped with nice amenities and common areas. They may search for hostels with private rooms or social events.
• A Budget Packer may look for hostels that are the most economical with just a safe space to rest at night.

Hostel MUST HAVE accessories: travel essentials set, a travel towel, travel flip flops, a travel water bottle.

FULL Hostel Packing List

Is a Coliving Space or a Hostel Right for You?

Coliving Spaces are ideal for those who are working remotely. Slower travelers who seek privacy but also community. Coliving spaces could be more economical if you are traveling with a companion. Coliving spaces prioritize comfort and longer-term stays, catering to remote workers seeking a supportive environment for both work and play.

Hostels are ideal for all types of solo Travel Backpackers who need something very short term, usually just a few nights. They are great for reliable, economical, and flexible accommodation while they hop around. Perfect for last minute reservations and socializing. Even though many hostels offer private rooms, the majority of their guests will stay in dormitory-style rooms.

 

Now check out our Ultimate Guide for Travel Backpacking! Collaborating with a select group of backpacking bloggers and industry professionals, we've compiled a diverse range of knowledge, essential hacks, and insider tips to meet you wherever you are on your backpacking journey.