How to Survive in a PG/Hostel (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Maggi)

Moving into a PG or hostel sounds exciting — new friends, freedom, and no nagging parents. But real talk? It’s a daily rollercoaster of shared bathrooms, mystery food, Wi-Fi tantrums, and the eternal question: “Who took my shampoo?”

Whether you’re a student or working professional, here’s your ultimate survival guide to hostel life — from chaos to calm.

1. Hygiene First, Always


Shared spaces can go from livable to questionable really fast.

  • Always wear flip-flops in the bathroom
  • Carry a personal towel, bucket, and toiletries
  • Wipe down shared surfaces regularly
  • Use air fresheners and keep your bedding clean

📍 Need help setting room rules or common space etiquette? 

2. Food Hacks = Life Hacks

Let’s be honest — not every meal is edible. You’ll need food backups.

  • Store dry snacks (in non-shareable boxes)

     

  • Keep ready-to-make items like poha, noodles, or soup

     

  • Have a mini routine for tea/coffee time — it helps break the stress

     

  • Don’t forget a dishwashing schedule if your PG doesn’t include it.

3. Wi-Fi Won’t Save You — But You Can Save Yourself

Wi-Fi issues are as common as chai breaks.

  • Always have a hotspot plan ready

     

  • Sit closer to the router or know the ‘strong signal’ zone in your PG

     

  • Download important files beforehand

     

  • Avoid fights over online gaming during work/study hours

🧍‍♀️ 4. Flat Social Life 101: Know When to Mingle and When to Mute


Living with 5+ strangers can get loud, weird, and occasionally amazing.

  • Be friendly but set healthy boundaries 
  • Attend common celebrations or events (cake = connection) 
  • Respect privacy and expect yours to be respected 
  • Know when to lock your door and recharge solo 

5. Structure Saves Sanity

  1. No matter how tempting late-night reels or naps are, routine helps.
    • Wake up on time
    • Schedule your work/study hours
    • Take breaks, walks, and 10-minute resets
    • Don’t let chores pile up — your future self will thank you

6. Essentials Checklist for PG Life

Here’s your must-have starter kit:
  • Extension board 
  • Bucket & mug 
  • Lock & key 
  • Earplugs & eye mask 
  • First aid basics 
  • Extra bedsheet & pillowcase 
  • A printed list of emergency contacts and room rules

Final Thought:

Hostel or PG life teaches you more than textbooks ever can. From sharing space to solving fights over the fan switch, it’s where you learn independence, resilience, and a lot of life hacks.

Embrace the chaos. Build memories. And yes — hide your snacks.

💬 Got a PG survival story?

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 Tag us on Instagram or share it at @Flathomie using #PGSurvivalStories.

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