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THE ADVENTURER'S GUIDE TO EARLY RETIREMENT
A COMMON SENSE APPROACH
BILLY AND AKAISHA KADERLI

Traveling far from home? Try Hostelling.

When overseas, there are many ways to cut costs and add to the variety of one's travel experience. Using the hostel system is one such way.

Recently, while on a 36 day trip through New Zealand, my husband and I utilized this very efficient, very affordable means of accommodation.

We began by purchasing a YHA card for $35 NZ (although there are several memberships available, BBH and VIP for example) and with this purchase, received a booklet of the locations, prices, phone numbers and descriptions of hostels all over the two island nation. This proved most useful.

CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND

VIEW FROM AUCKLAND CITY YHA

As we planned our trip, there was no need to worry about if  a hostel was located in the city of our destination, it was more the question of which one to choose.

No two hostels are alike. some are in old Victorian houses, or converted chapels, or prisons or farm houses. Some are in modern day hotel like facilities. This variety alone becomes a memorable part of the travel experience.

There are no curfews at YHA hostels and most have 24 hour access to facilities. Although no chores as such are expected of anyone staying in a hostel, you will be expected to tidy up after yourself in kitchens, bathrooms and common areas.

At one time bringing your own sleeping bag to use as your bed linen was customary. These days sheets and sometimes towels are given for use as part of the price of your room.

It is best to book ahead if you want to stay at a favored hostel or if it is during high season, especially if you want a twin or double room. Dorm rooms are more easily available, and believe me, they can be a highlight to a trip if you are open to meeting new people and having lively discussions.

If you go out for the day or if check out times are earlier than your scheduled departure, there are lockers available for hire at a nominal fee.

Kitchens are self catering with quite a variety of cooking utensils, pots, pans, plates and glasses. Normally, several refrigerators are also available for you to place your food. A designated food bag with your name labeled right on it is recommended and saves confusion and potential problems.

DUSKY LODGE YHA...KAIKOURA, NZ

BOOK AHEAD IN BUSY TIMES.

In peak seasons, it's wise to book up to a week ahead if you want to book at a favorite hostel site, or if you want a double or twin room.

SPLIT UP DUTIES.

If traveling with a friend, one can get luggage off the buses and taxis, while the other gets a jump on hostel check in, or ticket lines to ferries, etc. This way you can avoid the rush to get to the desk and your backpacks are safe and sound.

CHECK OUT THE KITCHEN AND BATHROOMS

Upon arrival at the hostel, it is wise to check this out right away. This way you know what your options with cooking utensils are, and come meal time there will be no surprises or disappointments in equipment. Knowing the number of showers and their locations allows you to plan ahead for the early morning leave times, and you won't have to stand in line to use the facilities.

FRIENDLY HOSTEL OWNERS

TYPICAL KITCHEN

BRING A MARKING PEN, LABELS AND A SEPARATE FOOD BAG.

You will need to mark your food items clearly at hostels. Some provide labels, some don't. Marking pens often don't work, or cannot be located. Having a designated and labeled food bag puts you ahead, and you will always recognize which bag has your food.

BE FLEXIBLE.

Opportunities appear all the time as well as new people. Who knows, you might just meet some interesting characters...we did.