answer:Yes. Have done both. Airfare is usually just regular coach tickets, just sold with a student discount (so choices may be a little limited). Hostels are a great alternative to hotels if you’re just looking for a place to crash. There are basically no frills, just a bed, access to bathroom and most likely a canteen or restaurant of sorts. Some places may charge extra for bedlinen or you can bring your own. Hostels are a great place to meet other young travellers as you’d often be sleeping in multi-sleeper rooms. Of course some characters may be more appealing than others. Also, you’d want a safe place to store your valuables, like passport and money.