Always carry insect repellent, sunscreen and a bottle of water.
Make sure you have your own wine/bottle opener! Sometimes you can get them as key rings.
A sarong has many uses – a tablecloth during a picnic, a wrap to avoid sunburn or a belt. You can even pin it to your bunk bed like a curtain to give you a little more privacy.
There's usually a free food shelf in most hostels. Check it out first thing in the morning! When people leave they don't want to be carrying extra food. Refrigerators in hostels usually get cleaned out once a week, so get in there while the goings good.
Always wear a pair of cheap, plastic flip-flops while showering.
Don't be one of those people who has a rucksack full of plastic bags. Invest in a nice little wash bag for yourself and your bits and bobs. Being woken by a rustling plastic bag - no backpacker will thank you for disturbing their sleep!
Libraries are also one of the best places to spend a rainy day. You can brush up on your next destination in the travel section.
Check out the Tourist Information Centre to find out what's on for free. Many cities have free admissions or cheaper ticket days to galleries, museums and cinemas.
