Leaving for Central America in 5 days.
How early can you check into a hostel? I'd really like not to have to lug my big backpack around wherever I'm going, and want to know if I can set up shop in the hostel at like midday, or even the morning sometimes.
2nd question: do you guys usually book the hostel online beforehand (not super long, just the day before) or buy your bed at the desk? Same for buses.
>>1273129
Every hostel I've been to allows one to drop off luggage in a secured area there before your room is ready.
As for your second question, I've booked weeks in advance, and the night before, but never in-person at the desk. Of course, if they have a bed available that would be fine, but there are no guarantees.