Are hostel breakfasts worth it?

Only if they are included in the price. If they charge 10 euros for a 'continental' breakfast, skip it and visit a local bakery instead for half the price.

How do I avoid 'hidden' costs?

Look out for mandatory city taxes (common in Italy and Germany) which are often not included in the online booking price and must be paid in cash upon arrival.

Finding Cheap Hostels in Europe

To secure the cheapest rates, use hostel-specific aggregators like Hostelworld to compare prices, then check the hostel’s direct website to avoid booking fees. Book at least 3 weeks in advance for high season and filter by 'price' while prioritizing highly-rated properties with over 8.0 scores to ensure safety.

Use the Right Aggregators. Start by searching Hostelworld.com or Hostelbookers.com to identify properties. These sites give you the best overview of location, photos, and verified reviews.
Cross-Reference Direct Sites. Once you find a hostel you like, Google its name and check its own website. Many hostels offer a 5-10% discount for direct bookings because they don't have to pay aggregator commission fees.
Filter by 'Total Cost' and Reviews. When sorting, look for hostels with a rating of 8.0 or higher. A cheap hostel that is dirty or unsafe isn't a deal. Check for 'bed linen included' in the fine print, as some European hostels charge an extra 3-5 euros for sheets.
Understand Dorm Sizes. The larger the dorm, the cheaper the bed. A 16-bed dorm will almost always be cheaper than a 4-bed dorm. If you are a light sleeper, pay the extra 5 euros for a smaller dorm or a pod-style bed.

Are hostel breakfasts worth it?: Only if they are included in the price. If they charge 10 euros for a 'continental' breakfast, skip it and visit a local bakery instead for half the price.
How do I avoid 'hidden' costs?: Look out for mandatory city taxes (common in Italy and Germany) which are often not included in the online booking price and must be paid in cash upon arrival.