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World-renowned for its skiing, spectacular mountain views, friendly neighborhoods, and a wide array of restaurants and shops, Vail is a haven for people who like winter sports. And those who want some respite from the demands of working in the metropolis.
Vail Mountain has an area of more than 5,000 acres and is the third-largest ski mountain in North America. It is a veritable playground for those who want to have some fun in the snow. Adrenaline-pumping fun is never too far away.
Vail may be known for its luxurious accommodations but that doesn’t mean you have to be insanely wealthy to afford to vacation here. You just have to know where to look. One of the best ways to save money when in town is to stay in a hostel in Vail. We don’t want you to be overwhelmed with the options so we have taken the time to sort things out for you.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
Quick Answer: Best Hostels in Vail
- Best Overall Hostel in Vail – The Bunkhouse
What to Expect from Hostels in Vail
One thing that you can instantly tell about staying in Vail hostels is that they are more expensive than hostels in other destinations. This is partly because it is the most expensive ski destination in North America, but there are still many ways to save money and still have enough to enjoy the skiing and the resorts.
You can stay in hostels, and share a dorm with other travelers to cut down on expenses. You just might meet a lot of interesting characters, too. Hostels have that distinct log cabin feel with the wonderful breeze of mountain air. So, how much do hostels usually cost?
- Mixed or same-sex dorm – $60 to $80
- Private room – $180 to $300
Where can you find the best hostels in Vail? Hostelworld is where you can make bookings easily and quickly. Check out what other previous guests have to say first and of course, take a look at the photos to ensure you’ll have a pleasant time on your vacation.
Best Hostels in Vail
Raring to go to Vail and get your winter sports on? We’re with you! Here are some hostels and budget spots worth staying. Note, there is ONLY one true backpacker’s hostel in town but there are plenty of other budget-friendly stays to choose from while you’re there.
The Bunkhouse – Best Overall Hostel in Vail
If you love the outdoors and crave adventure, The Bunkhouse is the ideal hostel in Vail for you to stay. Situated between the slopes of Beaver Creek and Vail Mountains, The Bunkhouse is just a 10-minute drive from the most popular snowboarding and ski resorts in Colorado, a bonus for winter sports enthusiasts! You might just end up spending an extra week skiing and snowboarding!
You can prepare your meals in the community kitchen, and pair them with a complimentary coffee before you head out to enjoy all the exhilarating activities on the nearby mountains. During the warmer months, you can try hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking.
At night, unwind by trying the Colorado craft beer. If you’re not a beer person you can always have a glass of wine on the mountain deck and discuss the day’s events with fellow travelers. Share stories and make plans for the following day to take to the mountains.
Things only get better from there…
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Free WIFI
- Mountain view
- Free off-site parking
- Bar on the premises
This boutique hostel is unlike your standard hostel, and guests who have stayed here have been pleasantly surprised. Each bunk bed has its own USB and power outlet, so you never have to worry about your phone or other gadgets running out of power.
Situated in the heart of Minturn, the bunk beds offer a degree of privacy that most hostels don’t. Not only are they all handcrafted, but soundproofing materials were also used when crafting them.
Just keep in mind that the property is smoke-free and doesn’t accept guests who are younger than 18 years old. There is a bar on the premises so you can easily grab a drink or two when you want.
Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.
It looks exactly like a normal belt except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)
Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodations
Aside from hostels, other types of budget accommodations are available too. Here we have a few motels and Airbnbs for the same price as hostels!
Condo with Spectacular Views – Great Airbnb for Couples in Vail
This is the perfect accommodation for couples traveling in Vail. The condo comes with an outdoor seating area where you and your loved one can sit and enjoy your morning coffee or hot chocolate while admiring the panoramic views. Don’t forget to take some pictures to remember the special moment!
You’ll never have problems with where to go and what to do after a full day of skiing and snowboarding as the home is close to the downtown area with loads of restaurants and shops. You’ll have your pick of the best places to dine.
If you’re not into skiing and snowboarding, opt for biking or traversing the hiking trails. Who knows, you might just meet some interesting wildlife or meet new friends who are vacationing in the area.
Guests of the condo are entitled to a 10% discount at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, Glenwood Adventure Company, and Iron Mountain Hot Springs when they purchase online tickets. The discount code will be sent via email a week before your arrival.
Private Room with Views of Vail Valley – Airbnb with a Pool/Jacuzzi in Vail
Located on Chamonix Lane, this private room comes with its own bathroom. However, the loft space includes a living area, kitchenette, dining area, workout area, and ski storage that are shared with other guests.
The property is on a bus route making getting from one place to another quick and easy. Guests can walk from the property to the grocery store, bars, and restaurants. Save money by collecting supplies at the grocery store, and cooking in the main kitchen.
If you don’t fancy cooking on vacation, you never have to worry about what you can grab for dinner as plenty of choices are nearby. After a sumptuous meal, grab a nightcap at one of the bars.
What better way to unwind after a day full of activities than by soaking your tired muscles in the hot tub? Just keep in mind that the hot tub is shared with other guests. If the tub is occupied, you can enjoy a movie night with the 10×10-foot projector in the main living area.
Creekside Mountain Townhouse – Airbnb for Large Groups in Vail
If you’re traveling with friends and family, this is the best spot. There are plenty of amenities to make your stay as pleasant as it can be. It’s nearby a free Vail shuttle, and just a few minutes away from hiking trails so you can spend your time enjoying outdoor activities.
The fully-equipped kitchen allows you to prepare and enjoy home-cooked meals, and save money at the same time. Free WIFI is available throughout the premises to show off your wonderful vacation photos and make your friends at home envious of the good time you’re having.
After a day full of fun and activity, head to the Ptarmigan complex just across the way and take a dip in the pool or the hot tub that’s open all year round.
Minturn Inn – Best Hotel for Solo Travelers in Vail
The location of this property is what guests love the most. This charming bed and breakfast is on Main Street in the historic town of Minturn. You’ll find yourself so close to Vail, but without paying the expensive central prices.
Built on a historic 1915 homestead, the property has the unique ambiance of an old cabin in the mountains. Guests can choose from the buffet or ala carte breakfasts that are already included in the price.
Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and free private parking is available for guests with cars. Within close proximity are skiing and hiking locations, so there’s no reason to get bored. The terrace is available for guests to use, and you can sip your morning coffee while admiring the majestic views.
What to Pack for Your Vail Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Vail Hostels FAQ
How much do hostels in Vail cost?
Hostels in Vail are more costly compared to other areas. Dorms cost from $60 to $80 and private rooms cost $180 to $300.
What are the best hostels in Vail for couples?
Condo with Spectacular Views is the ideal accommodation in Vail for couples. There are a lot of activities that you can do within the area like snowboarding, biking, hiking and more. But the best part is the additional 10% discount that you’ll get from the affiliate partner of the condo.
What is the best hostel in Vail near the airport?
Since Vail is located in the mountainous area of Colorado, the nearest airport is quite a distance. However, if you are looking for the best hostel in the area, it’s without a doubt The Bunkhouse.
Travel Safety Tips for Vail
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Hostels in Vail
Vail is a beautiful place to be throughout the year. With the distinction of having one of the best alpine resorts in the world, the area is still able to retain its intimate, small-town feel where everybody knows everybody.
Aside from hiking in the summer and skiing during winter, Vail offers other bountiful cultural and recreational opportunities. You’ll have plenty to talk about and memories to cherish when you finally go home.
If you still have a hard time deciding where to stay, pick The Bunkhouse. It has a warm and cozy feel with a bar on the premises, and they even have complimentary coffee for guests. It’s the best hostel in Vail.
Photo: @amandaadraper
- Not sure what to do once you arrive? We’ve got all the best places to visit in Colorado covered.
- Skip the dorm and find a super cool Airbnb in Colorado if you’re feeling fancy!
- Check out the best places to stay in Vail before you arrive.
- Remember to grab yourself an international sim card for the USA to avoid any issues.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
- Get ready for your next destination with our ultimate USA backpacking guide.
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