RULES OF TRAVEL

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Book directly with hostels is the best thing a budget traveller can do when securing accommodations. I've always gone this route. But I'm old fashioned like that. For example, I still use travel agencies every now and again. The transaction is more personable and, to put it in a sense, I feel more "taken care of" by the travel agent and a telephone call to the Front Desk than I do by a "click here" button.

"Support the amazing people who make your trip unforgettable, not the corporations who drain your travel fund"

As explained on the poster, for every reservation made: 

1. the customary 10% deposit credit card users agree to is a commission which the hostel never receives AND
2. the booking fee is an additional payment for step you could - and would - easily do on your own. In other words, it's bogus.

This PSA came courtesy of Chicago Getaway Hostel. It was posted on several locations throughout the building. 

(Read about my stay at Chicago Getaway)