Here are my tips to pick a good hostel [almost] every time.

Summary:

  1. Check out Hostelworld.com.
  2. Filter hostels to ones with above an 80% rating.
  3. Read the hostel description and reviews.
  4. Look for things you know will annoy you. E.g. too loud, too quiet, etc.
  5. Pick a price range that works for you.
  6. Look at location.