Last sociological interrogation has shown that third of our fellow citizens has preferred independent travel last year. Abroad very many and for a long time travel independently. Russians only should it study. Recently such independent tourists from Russia cease to be a rarity in streets of the European capitals. The trips deprived of the plan and the preliminary organisation, bring much more pleasure and impressions, than ready tours.  
The ticket, is a little money in a pocket — and forward. However stop, still the visa and residing!. Here again хостелы too can become very useful, after all residing becomes the basic article of expenses on each travel.
As it is known, hotels have the right to send invitations and to give visa support.  habitation in hostels – is the basis for reception of the tourist visa in some European countries, namely to Great Britain, France, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Italy. It is the cheapest way to receive the visa (except, unless, invitations from friends). Cost of the invitation from hostel— an order of 20-30 dollars.