Gladstone · Australia
Gladstone Backpackers
Bed bug reports
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Confirmed Hostelworld
This looks absolutely nothing like the photos. We’re pretty sure there were bedbugs. Found a lizard and a cockroach in the kitchen. Would not recommend or return
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Confirmed Hostelworld
Its dirty and the linen smelled really bad. We got bit a by bedbugs as well.. The showers were nice.
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Vibe Analysis
Gladstone Backpackers can feel like a small, social house in town, with a bar, pool area, cheap dinners, hostel activities, pizza nights, family meals, and the kind of setup that makes it easy to meet other travellers. Staff energy seems to matter a lot here: at its best, the place feels welcoming, relaxed, and homey rather than polished. The on-site bar is a real part of the stay, not a decorative extra. It can make the hostel fun for social nights, drinks, music, and low-key hanging out, but it also means noise and shared facilities can be part of the deal, especially around party nights. Animals are part of the house character too, including dogs and caged birds, with past animal setups also raising concerns. Rooms are basic, and some may be warm or without AC, though bed fans may be available. This is more of a scrappy stopover/social base than a spotless comfort pick.
Signals to check
- Cleanliness can be inconsistent, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, showers, and bins.
- Room security may be an issue, with missing locks, no lockers, or doors that do not feel secure.
- Some rooms can be hot, and AC may not be available in every room.
- The bar and social nights can mean late noise.
- Late check-in, deposits, laundry, breakfast, towels, and facility availability should be checked directly before booking.