I was interviewed recently about staying in college dorms as an alternative to hotels, but I had to say that I'd pick a hostel any day over a college dorm, rooms in which can be rented by the night during summers as budget lodging. The US college dorm scene can be kinda way on the calm side in the off season (though European campuses host tons o' international students in summer months), but perhaps I haven't been in the right place -- have you? Let us know in the comments below.

Hostels range from party palaces to superiorly spiffy flashpacker digs -- pick one near a train station to start your trip, then keep your ear to the ground in the hostel's kitchen, lounge or bar to find out where the gang's headed next. Learn more about hostels:

• All About Hostels
• Top Frequently Asked Questions About Hostels
• Find Hostels by Country
• Hostel Photos

Related: Backpacking Europe Tips | Student Travel 101 | Hostel Discount Cards