Ever dreamt of living the hostel life, meeting awesome travelers, and being at the heart of the legendary Ha Giang Loop? Well, here’s your golden ticket!
Volunteering at Bong Hostel isn’t just about checking in guests and restocking fridges—it’s about joining a wild, welcoming family that thrives on adventure, good vibes, and a whole lot of motorbiking madness.
If you’re reliable, trustworthy, friendly, and hardworking (oh, and did we mention smiley?), then you might just be our next superstar volunteer.
But before you throw your backpack over your shoulder and race to Ha Giang, let’s break down what you can expect when you volunteer at Bong Hostel.
So, if working a few chill hours a day in exchange for food, accommodation, and the adventure of a lifetime sounds like your vibe—read on!
What is Bong Hostel, and Why Volunteer Here?
Bong Hostel is THE spot for travelers taking on the Ha Giang Loop. It’s a lively, welcoming space where backpackers from around the world gather to gear up, swap stories, and make lifelong friends.
But what really makes Bong Hostel special? Well, I’m glad you asked!
Bong is more than just a hostel—it's a community. A place where everyone is family (a slightly chaotic, motorbike-loving family, but still).
And as a volunteer, you get to be right at the heart of it all. Plus, let’s be real—getting a free stay, free food, and getting to be part of the Ha Giang Loop is an absolute steal!
Related article: How to Explore North Vietnam on a Budget.
What Do Volunteers at Bong Hostel Do?
First things first—you won’t be scrubbing toilets or making beds (we leave that to the pros). Instead, your role will be:
Reception & Guest Check-ins: Helping guests get settled in, answering their questions, and making sure they’re prepped for their adventure.
Bike Lessons: If you’re comfortable on a motorbike, you can assist with morning bike training for self-riders.
T-Shirts & Social Media: Handing out the coveted Bong Hostel t-shirts to guests who tag us on Instagram or leave a review.
Food & Drink Orders: Helping with dinner service, clearing plates, and making sure everyone’s well-fed before and after their trip.
Vibes & Banter: Yep, this is an actual responsibility. You’ll be part of the Bong family, making guests feel at home and ensuring they have the best time possible.
The best part? Only 3-4 hours of work per day! The rest of your time is yours to explore, chill, or get ready for your own Ha Giang Loop adventure.
Related article: Exploring Ha Giang: Top Attractions You Can't Miss in Ha Giang City.
A Day in the Life of a Bong Hostel Volunteer
Volunteering here is more about being part of the Bong family than just clocking in hours. Your tasks will be light, flexible, and focused on keeping the hostel running smoothly.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll be doing:
Morning Shifts: Gearing Up for the Loop (8 AM – 12 PM)
8:00 am: Guests wake up, bleary-eyed but excited. You also help check in any late-night arrivals.
9:15 am: If you’re a bike pro, you might be teaching self-drivers the ropes at the morning bike lesson.
9:45 am: Time for the tour announcement—a crucial moment when guests get hyped up for their epic journey! But don’t worry, this is given by our seasoned pros!
10:00 am: The Ha Giang Loop crew roars off into the horizon.
10:15 am: You tidy up, restock the fridge, and maybe grab another coffee (or three).
Afternoon Shifts: Chilling and Check-Ins (12 PM – 4 PM)
12:30 pm: Lunch with the Bong family! Prepare yourself for Hong’s delicious cooking—we know you’re not ready for how good it is! P.S. We’re a mix of veggie and meat-eaters, so there’s no stress!
1:00 – 4:00 pm: Time to handle check-ins, restock t-shirts for returning guests, and answer any questions ("Yes, you really do need cash for the loop. No, there are no ATMs in the mountains!").
3:00 – 4:00 pm: The first groups start returning from the loop, dusty but grinning ear to ear (some may cry because they don’t want to leave, but don’t worry, it's normal—our Ha Giang Loop tours really are that good!). Now you’ll help with check-ins and hand out the free t-shirts to those who leave an honest review or tag us on Instagram.
Evening Shifts: The Madness Begins (4 PM – 8 PM)
4:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Assist with guest check-ins and update the hostel’s passport database. Take food and drink orders at the restaurant.
7:00 pm: Time for bus departures. You’ll assist guests heading off to their next destination. You’ll also check in our new guests and answer any questions they may have. Prepare those smiles; new day, same questions!
8:00 pm: Dinner with the Bong family! More laughs, more carbs, and maybe even a beer or two.
9:00 pm – Late: More guests arrive for the next day’s tour. You help with check-ins, get them hyped for the adventure, and share all the insider tips.
Late Night Shifts: An Essential Wind Down (8 PM – 11 PM)
Finish any check-ins for guests arriving by night bus.
Keep the common area tidy and welcoming.
Update any last-minute admin tasks before winding down.
The best part? You only work around 3-4 hours a day, and shifts are super flexible… as in, we sit down each evening and talk it out; who wants to work when!
What You Get as a Volunteer at Bong Hostel
We’re not just asking you to work for free—we’re making sure you get the best experience possible:
Free dorm bed with fellow volunteers.
Three free meals a day (and as I said, the food is insert chef’s kiss).
Discounted Ha Giang Loop tour (if you stay long enough, we hook you up!).
Unreal friendships from all over the world.
A legendary Bong Hostel t-shirt (backpacker street cred included).
An experience you’ll never forget.
What Skills Can You Gain?
Volunteering at Bong Hostel isn’t just about lending a hand—it’s a chance to gain real-world skills that will serve you in future travels or even your career. Here’s what you can expect to learn:
Hospitality & Customer Service: Gain experience in hostel management, check-ins, and guest interaction.
Restaurant Service & Event Planning: Help organize hostel social events and take orders in the restaurant.
Teamwork & Leadership: Work closely with other volunteers and hostel staff to keep things running smoothly.
Motorbike Basics: Learn or improve your motorbiking skills by assisting with bike lessons.
What We Look for in a Volunteer
Let’s be honest, we’re welcoming you into our FAMILY, so we want the best of the best to help keep our community strong. Here’s what we’re looking for:
Reliability: We need people who show up, do their tasks properly, and don’t ghost us halfway through their stay.
Punctuality: Be on time for shifts—no one likes waiting, especially backpackers eager to start the Ha Giang Loop.
Trustworthiness: You’ll handle guest check-ins and payments, so honesty is key.
Fun-Loving & Outgoing: You’re the face of Bong! Bring the energy, share the love, and make guests feel at home.
Smiley & Friendly: A welcoming attitude goes a long way in making guests feel at home.
Hardworking & Adaptable: Hostel life is fast-paced. We need volunteers who can keep up!
What Past Volunteers Have to Say
Still on the fence? Check out what past volunteers have to say:
“Volunteering at Bong Hostel was the best decision ever! The free food was amazing, the people were incredible, and the Ha Giang Loop was the best thing I’ve ever done. 10/10.” – Jess, Canada.
“I came for two weeks and stayed for two months. It’s that kind of place. Volunteering here means you’re not just helping at a hostel—you’re part of a family. I'll never forget my Bong family." – Poppy, UK.
“Three hours of work a day in exchange for food, accommodation, and an adventure? Yes, please! Plus, the crew at Bong Hostel is like no other—genuinely some of the best people I’ve ever met.” – Will, Australia.
How to Apply to Volunteer at Bong Hostel
Applying to volunteer at Bong Hostel is easy, but we only accept applications through Workaway. If you’re keen follow this guide:
Step-by-Step Guide:
Sign up on Workaway (if you haven’t already).
Search for Bong Hostel and apply through the platform.
Include your WhatsApp number (with country code) so we can contact you.
Tell us why you want to volunteer, enthusiasm goes a long way!
If we think you’re a good fit, we’ll get in touch via WhatsApp and take it from there!
How Far in Advance Should You Apply?
It’s best to apply at least 1-2 months in advance, especially during the busy season (October to April). Short-notice applications are welcome, but availability is limited.
Practical Information for Volunteers
What to Pack for Volunteering at Bong Hostel
Comfortable clothes (pack hoodies and joggers for winter and light breathable fabrics for Ha Giang’s hot and sticky summers).
Sturdy shoes (for work and exploring the loop).
Power adapter (Vietnam uses Type A, C, and F plugs).
Basic toiletries (eco-friendly preferred).
Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!).
Rain jacket (Ha Giang weather can be unpredictable!).
Books, games, paints (for those lazy days between shifts).
Visa Requirements for Volunteering in Vietnam
Vietnamese visas typically do not allow paid work, but unpaid volunteering at hostels is generally accepted. Most travelers get a 30-day eVisa, but if you plan to stay longer, consider a 3-month visa.
Related article: Your Ticket to the Ha Giang Loop: Vietnam Visa Requirements 2025.
Final Thoughts: Is Volunteering at Bong Right for You?
If you love meeting new people, thrive in a lively environment, and want to be part of something truly special, then YES. Bong Hostel is calling your name.
We’re more than just a hostel; we’re a community, a family, and a front-row seat to the most legendary adventure in Vietnam.
So what are you waiting for? Apply now, pack your bags, and get ready to have the time of your life. See you in Ha Giang!
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