My brother once told me that if you want to make friends at a hostel, show up with a case of beer, sit in the common area, and wait for people to walk by. Although making friends at a hostel doesn't require alcohol, that might be the fastest way to make friends at a hostel.
Since my brother gave me that piece of advice, I've done a lot of hosteling. I've learned that there's something to be gleaned from his advice, but also that making friends at a hostel is easier than it might seem, especially to someone who is less familiar with the world of hostels. In fact, some of the most genuine connections I've seen unfold have happened over the simplest interactions, or when someone is outgoing enough to sit down at a table full of strangers and begin shaking hands and introducing themselves.
There are a lot of ways to make connections in hostels, and here are some of the quickest ways to make friends in a hostel.
Be Yourself
Again, it doesn't require being the most social person in the room to make friends quickly in a hostel. But if there's one thing that stands out and makes making friends easy, it's being yourself. People can spot disingenuous behavior pretty easily, and part of what makes hostels special is that they welcome everyone, so there's no reason to be anybody but yourself. Bringing people together from all walks of life is what makes hostels so unique, in that they can effortlessly become a melting pot of culture by just being inclusive.
Join Events
In terms of making connections and building friendships in hostels, one of the best ways to meet people is to take part in activities or events that are hosted by the hostel. Most hostels host activities or will suggest local meetups for their guests, giving you plenty of access to new experiences and opportunities to easily meet other travelers. The open nature of the events makes it easy to make friends, since everyone there is likely looking for the same experience, and that's to socialize and connect with other people. Even if the event or activity isn't something you're particularly interested in or enthusiastic about, simply showing up and participating can mean a lot more in the long run than what you might get out of the single event.
Chat up the Staff
Like the guests, hostel volunteers and staff are typically interested in meeting new people. They're likely to be social, outgoing, and interesting, and they can also be some of the most knowledgeable people about the local area or region. Becoming friends with the staff can not only help you get insider tips or knowledge on some of the best things to do in the area, but it can also be a unique way to connect with someone who is not just passing through the hostel. Especially if you plan to stay at a hostel for more than a night or two, becoming friendly with the staff is one of the best things you can do during your stay, and it should come easily since it's part of their job to be friendly and a good host.
Talk to Your Bunkmates
Sparking up a conversation with a complete stranger can be an intimidating or awkward proposition for some people. But in hostels, it's so normal that it's almost expected. Shared spaces are one of the best places to meet people, but countless connections occur inside dorm rooms, when two travelers are first unpacking their bags or getting ready for bed. Making conversation with the people in your room is not only a way to enhance the social experience, but it also makes the atmosphere more relaxed and comfortable for everyone when people know each other by first name.
Join Hostel Group Chats
Not every hostel will have a group chat, but if the one you're staying at does, make sure to join it. By joining a group chat at a hostel, you can quickly find out what's going on at the hostel and be up to date on their events or activities. Not only can you stay in the loop, but you can also easily join in when someone puts out an invitation to do something like take a hike, hit up a happy hour, rent a car, share a ride to the airport, or go surfing. Group chats at hostels are some of the easiest, and most effortless ways to make friends at a hostel.
