Welcome to Summer House Backpackers!

Kings Cross, Sydney

Frequently Asked Questions


My question is not listed.

Not a problem, just send us an email, call us on (02) 9358 4327 or visit the Contact page to fill out a email form.

How do I get to the hostel from the airport?

There are various shuttle bus companies that service the Kings Cross area including Sydney Shuttles and AirBus. These typically cost between $14 – $20; however they usually don’t run after 7 pm. This will take you right to our front door.

Is breakfast provided?

No, breakfast is not included, however, every Sunday we offer a special pancake breakfast between 9am -11am.

Should I bring my own linen?

No, we provide clean linen for you and will have your bed fully prepared for you when you arrive. Sleeping bags are prohibited due to Australian health regulations. We do not provide towels however they are available to hire from reception.

Can I park my car at Summer House Backpackers?

Unfortunately we do not provide car parking for guests. As we are located in a busy part of the city, long term car parking options are scarce. There is a security car park is located a 5 minute walk away.

I want to work while in Sydney, how do I apply for a Tax File Number (TFN)?

We recommend that you register for a tax-file number before arriving in Australia so you can hit the ground running. You will need to provide a postal address so feel free to use ours: 153 Forbes Street, Woolloomooloo, NSW, Australia, 2011. All the information on applying for a TFN is provided here.

I’m arriving late at night, how do I check in?

Checking in late is no problem. When you arrive at the hostel just call us on 9358 4327 and our friendly night manager will check you in to your room. Please note that we will hold on to your passport overnight and return it the following morning following payment.

I’m arriving at the hostel early, can I check in before 2 pm?

Our check in time is at 2 pm, however if you arrive early we will gladly store your luggage for free and allow you to use all of our facilities including showers, bathrooms, Wi-Fi, computers and all communal areas and kitchen. Out of respect to our sleeping guests, we typically do not allow access to the rooms before 12 o’clock unless the entire room is vacant. The time between check in and check out is used to clean all the rooms and prepare the beds for new guests.

It’s my first time staying in a hostel. What should I expect?

Staying in a backpacker hostel is great fun and an easy way to meet new friends. The rooms are all shared dorms equipped with bunk beds. All of our guests are similar-minded international travellers aged between 18 and 35, hoping to enjoy the beautiful city of Sydney without spending a fortune.

What activities does the hostel organise to meet new people?

We have a dedicated entertainment manager who organises daily events to bring everyone in the hostel together. These include great nights out with free entry and drink, free BBQs, day trips to the Blue Mountains, whale watching, movie nights and heaps more! Make sure you check out the events board near reception to see what’s on.

How far is Summer House Backpackers from the city centre?

We are located just a 15 minute walk or 3 minute train journey to the city centre. We are also a 15 minute walk to Sydney Harbour and a 5 minute train journey to Bondi Junction and a 20 minute bus ride to Bondi Beach.