Vancouver · Canada
Vancouver Backpacker House
Bed bug reports
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Confirmed Google Maps
I got bedbug bites and just found one bug in my apartment room, ever since staying at this place. I think they need to do some pest control. And I agree, cash price is 8% lower than credit card purchase here is a big sign of tax evasion, but that's the business of Canada Revenue Agency.
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Confirmed Google Maps
Pretty scetch, but very cheap. No roaches or bed bugs and clean sheets. Also pretty close to metro. Land lord is kinda iffy and borderline tax evasion, forced us to pay in cash. Other tenants were pretty chill, but there seems to be a group of them that hang around the main building. They were pretty chill but expect abunch of people outside smoking. Also apparently lists rooms on air bnb even though that's kinda not legal. Also no towels
HostelPunk native reviews
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Vibe Analysis
Vancouver Backpacker House is more like a bare-bones shared house in Burnaby than a classic social hostel. The useful bits are practical: access to SkyTrain, Metrotown, Walmart, and a quieter residential area, with a lower-cost bed when Vancouver availability is tight. Self check-in is the operating system here. There is usually no front desk or onsite staff, with access and payment handled remotely through text or WhatsApp. That can work if you are comfortable with codes and phone admin, but arrival can feel awkward or stressful. The building and rooms are basic, old, and inconsistent. Cleanliness, kitchen gear, bathrooms, bedding, heat, noise, security, and room setup may be unreliable. Treat it as a last-resort crash pad for flexible travelers who need Burnaby access more than hostel atmosphere.
Signals to check
- Payment can involve e-transfer, PayPal, deposits, card fees, or extra charges; confirm the full total and refund rules before arrival.
- No onsite reception is normal here, and check-in may depend on phone data and remote code instructions.
- Cleanliness and maintenance can be rough, including kitchens, bathrooms, bedding, windows, heat, and room smells.
- This is not a strong fit for solo women, light sleepers, or anyone wanting a classic social hostel setup.