Would you pay extra for a lower bed?

[Luka]

Just wondering. I have never seen it, but would it be profitable for albergues to ask 1 or 2 euros more for a lower bed? And would you pay for that? The question came to mind because I always fear to be assigned to an upper bed. Which (of course) happens in about half of the cases ;-)

I have to go to the toilet once or twice a night and I struggle with climbing down. Maybe it is just my clumsiness or it is because I prefer to only wear a nightgown and want to come down without flashing... For the pilgrims feeling I definitely prefer staying in albergues, but I would without any doubt pay 1 or 2 euros more to be sure to get a lower bed.

Or would it spoil the pilgrims experience of all being equal?

 

[RJM]

I sympathize with what you are saying. As an older male, bigger guy, getting up and down those bunks can be a chore as they have small, or no ladders. Sometimes the ladder rungs are small diameter and kind of painful to step on. Sometimes I just grab the top bunk and step up on it using the edge of the lower for assistance. Works, but a bit invasive to whomever is on the lower. Also once when I jumped all 100 kilos of me to the top bunk I guess the bunk rattling, initially tilting and the springs sagging downwards frightened the small Asian female pilgrim in the lower bunk because she let out a sort of shriek and egressed quickly. We were both laughing as I apologized.
Still, I probably would not pay extra for a lower. I do think it does somewhat spoil to some degree pilgrims being equal in an albergue setting. Dormitory rooms, that is.

 

[Antonius Vaessen]

I believe it could indeed spoil the experience. If you really have problems with sleeping in an upper bed it would be nicer to ask fellow pilgrims to change beds. For many people it won't make that much difference.( including myself) I myself prefer also a lower bed but that depends also also on the heightdifference between the beds. I cannot count the times I hit the upper bed with my head. Certainly when there are only a few chairs I prefer an upper bed.

 

[Leibniz]

I prefer a lower bed too but I like the “lottery” aspect of it, and if another pilgrim asked to swap because they couldn’t manage the upper bunk I would oblige.

I think in some cases the hospitaleros “gauge” us as we arrive and thus assign us a lower or upper bunk.

In Manjarín (where there are no bunks but two different floors) I was given a bed downstairs while all the “young people” were sent up a steep ladder to the top level. I was slightly perplexed as I feel very young but it turned out I was lucky because it rained torrentially that night and the roof had so many holes that there wasn’t a dry pillow or sleeping bag upstairs.

I told the kids a bit or water never harmed anyone (no, I didn’t really).

 

[Luka]

If you really have problems with sleeping in an upper bed it would be nicer to ask fellow pilgrims to change beds.

If I wouldn't be injured, highly pregnant or over 70 years old, I would never dare to ask for a swap. Because almost everyone prefers lower beds. And it is not so nice either to have to say 'no, sorry' or to give up your lower bed to someone who would just feel more comfortable in a lower bed, but not really need it.

I have only once asked for a lower bed. To one of my fellow Dutch hospitaleros in Roncesvalles. I had limped down the Pyrenees with tendonitis. But no, the upper beds were for older people and I should accept the bed that was assigned to me. That night I woke up several times because of the pain and the next day I had to bus to Pamplona where I stayed for six days to recover. And yes, in a lower bed

 

[Luka]

Ah wait, I remember one more time I asked for a different bed... That was on the Norte in the albergue of Guemes. They have bunks of three beds high and they gave me the highest bed. As having fear of heights I had no idea how to climb out of that bed. When I told them they gave me a bed on the 'second floor'.

 

[Luka]

I prefer a lower bed too but I like the “lottery” aspect of it, and if another pilgrim asked to swap because they couldn’t manage the upper bunk I would oblige.

I think in some cases the hospitaleros “gauge” us as we arrive and thus assign us a lower or upper bunk.

I somehow agree with the lottery aspect. And you appreciate a lower bed more when you get it just because you won the lottery ;-)

Would be interesting to hear from hospitaleros here how they divide the lower and upper beds. Randomly, or do you look at the persons physical state and age? And what do you do with pilgrims who ask for a lower bed? I would guess that happens quite often.

 

[Deleted member 73526]

If I have a lower bunk and you ask nicely, or I see that you need it, it's yours.

 

[Deleted member 73526]

If I wouldn't be injured, highly pregnant or over 70 years old, I would never dare to ask for a swap. Because almost everyone prefers lower beds.

This is interesting. We could do a camino version of Dr. Milgram's subway experiment:

'Excuse Me. May I Have Your Seat?' (Published 2004)

Two New York Times reporters do unscientific re-enactment of Dr Stanley Milgram's experiment of 30 years ago in which he sent graduate students into crowded New York City subway cars to ask riders to give up their seats; 68 percent of riders asked by Milgram's students gave up their seats; Times...

www.nytimes.com

68% of NY subway riders gave up their seats to healthy-looking individuals. How generous are pilgrims compared with NY subway riders?

 

[Luka]

This is interesting. We could do a camino version of Dr. Milgram's subway experiment:

'Excuse Me. May I Have Your Seat?' (Published 2004)

Two New York Times reporters do unscientific re-enactment of Dr Stanley Milgram's experiment of 30 years ago in which he sent graduate students into crowded New York City subway cars to ask riders to give up their seats; 68 percent of riders asked by Milgram's students gave up their seats; Times...

www.nytimes.com

68% of NY subway riders gave up their seats to healthy-looking individuals. How generous are pilgrims compared with NY subway riders?

This is interesting indeed! I am sure I would feel the same strong reluctance as the students had shown to ask a fellow pilgrim if I could get his or her bed. That is actually why I slept in an upper bed while injured in Roncesvalles....

 

[trecile]

That was on the Norte in the albergue of Guemes. They have bunks of three beds high

I guess that I was lucky. When I was there last summer I was on a dorm with all single beds - no bunks.

 

[gersevink]

I guess that I was lucky. When I was there last summer I was on a dorm with all single beds - no bunks.

L mijn ervaring als oudere 65+ is dat wij in de meeste gevallen het onderste bed toebedeeld krijgen, waarschijnlijk uit eerbied!?

 

[Antomuchacho]

I deffo prefer a lower bunk!! Years ago when i was in a hostel in amsterdam a guy fell off the top bunk and was taken to hospital that always stayed with me tho only with top bunks with no side safety rails of course!! Which there is plenty of on the camino! Ime sure the guy who fell off was drunk but it still sticks in my mind!! So yes, if no safety rail/ lower bunk please even for normal fare +50%

 

[peregrina2000]

This is interesting. We could do a camino version of Dr. Milgram's subway experiment:

'Excuse Me. May I Have Your Seat?' (Published 2004)

Two New York Times reporters do unscientific re-enactment of Dr Stanley Milgram's experiment of 30 years ago in which he sent graduate students into crowded New York City subway cars to ask riders to give up their seats; 68 percent of riders asked by Milgram's students gave up their seats; Times...

www.nytimes.com

68% of NY subway riders gave up their seats to healthy-looking individuals. How generous are pilgrims compared with NY subway riders?

One of the things I love most about this forum is how people bring in such interesting related information! Really interesting.

BTW, though I have never asked anyone on a New York subway for a seat, on various occasions I have been staring in confusion at the totally confusing map. In every instance, in less than a minute, someone has come up to ask if I needed help. And in one case, when the line I was hoping to take had been closed for an emergency, a young hipster walked me over to the different line and jotted down instructions. New Yorkers, IMO, get an undeserved bad rap.

But back to your topic, Luka, , I have gotten used to being on the top bunk, especially since I learned the absolutely essential rule that you descend from the top bunk facing the bed, NOT facing the outside.

 

[Leibniz]

My top tip is to keep a pair of SOMETHING (shoes, sandals, flip flops, whatever) with me on the top bunk. Those ladder rungs are too painful on bare feet especially after a few days on the Camino!

 

[Luka]

My top tip is to keep a pair of SOMETHING (shoes, sandals, flip flops, whatever) with me on the top bunk. Those ladder rungs are too painful on bare feet especially after a few days on the Camino!

That is the first thing I look at when entering a dorm. The type of ladder. And yes, most of the time you need something firm underneath your feet to climb up or down without hurting your feet.

I have always thought that if I would ever start an albergue I would probably design some type of pods instead of bunks. My next camino I am going to rest my feet here only because of the beds: http://www.alberguelafinca.es/el-albergue.php

 

[Luka]

L mijn ervaring als oudere 65+ is dat wij in de meeste gevallen het onderste bed toebedeeld krijgen, waarschijnlijk uit eerbied!?

My bad luck is that I am always estimated younger than I am in southern European countries... ;-)

 

[Luka]

But still, however I sympathize with the Camino camaraderie of lotteries and top bunk experiences, I wonder why no (private) albergue offers lower beds for a few more euros. I mean, there are loads of albergues that offer private rooms, or sometimes just dorms with less beds for a few more euros. Almost every 'normal' hostel does the latter. So why not monetize the privilige of a lower bed?

 

[Leibniz]

My next camino I am going to rest my feet here only because of the beds: http://www.alberguelafinca.es/el-albergue.php

Thanks for that! It looks lovely. I’ve made a note of it.

 

[trecile]

Years ago when i was in a hostel in amsterdam a guy fell off the top bunk and was taken to hospital that always stayed with me tho only with top bunks with no side safety rails of course!! Which there is plenty of on the camino! Ime sure the guy who fell off was drunk but it still sticks in my mind!!

I've never fallen off any bed, so I don't know why I would be more inclined to fall off a top bunk.

I have always thought that if I would ever start an albergue I would probably design some type of pods instead of bunks. My next camino I am going to rest my feet here only because of the beds: http://www.alberguelafinca.es/el-albergue.php

La Finca is the best! And the restaurant there is very good too. They also let you use the washing machine for free.

 

[Caligal]

I sympathize with what you are saying. As an older male, bigger guy, getting up and down those bunks can be a chore as they have small, or no ladders. Sometimes the ladder rungs are small diameter and kind of painful to step on. Sometimes I just grab the top bunk and step up on it using the edge of the lower for assistance. Works, but a bit invasive to whomever is on the lower. Also once when I jumped all 100 kilos of me to the top bunk I guess the bunk rattling, initially tilting and the springs sagging downwards frightened the small Asian female pilgrim in the lower bunk because she let out a sort of shriek and egressed quickly. We were both laughing as I apologized.
Still, I probably would not pay extra for a lower. I do think it does somewhat spoil to some degree pilgrims being equal in an albergue setting. Dormitory rooms, that is.

Too funny when I stayed at the “singing nun” albergue in Carrion i was in bottom bunk with a large man on top. Every time he moved the bunk moaned, groaned and squeaked and I thought” OMG is this how it ends, death by bunk bed!”

 

[ranthr]

After 15 years caminowalking I now avoid the topbunks and dobblebunks and snoring sounds by booking a single room and rather walk for a shorter time to deal with the cost.
As a diabetica I always felt I disturbed the rest by my needed doings during the night.
Not as social as staying in an albergue, but that is not a problem for me.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

but I would without any doubt pay 1 or 2 euros more to be sure to get a lower bed.

I would stop an hour earlier, but that is as far as I would go. In dozens of caminos, I have had an upper bunk only a couple of times (or a few times, if that is more than a couple of times).

 

[Albertagirl]

I think that having a lower bed is already, to some extent, monetized, as at La Finca or La Casa Magica, which are private albergues with no bunks. Experienced walkers will sometimes choose to stay in private albergues with single beds or in private rooms, even if they cost ten euros or more, compared to a five euro municipal.

 

[Luka]

I also recall a donativo run by nuns in Carrión de los Condes with single beds.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

I also recall a donativo run by nuns in Carrión de los Condes with single beds.

Most are bunks. I had one next to Typhoid Mary one trip. I caught a week-long virus. A single bed would not have helped if it had been next to her.

 

[Antomuchacho]

I've never fallen off any bed, so I don't know why I would be more inclined to fall off a top bunk.

I havent fallen out of bed myself either ☺ thus far!! However the post itself and discussion presents all options as to why one would prefer a lower bed for many different reasons hence the discussion and replies!!

 

[Mark Barnes]

I pretty much have to use a lower bunk as I use a CPAP and am a big guy. This is why I, on most days, book rooms ahead specifying that I need a lower bunk near an outlet. It does restrict your freedom since booking ahead defines when and where you stop for the day no matter if you feel liking like walking on or you meet people you would like to walk with that are continuing on.

 

[naplesdon]

The neuropathy in my right foot makes it impossible for me to climb a ladder. I try to check in early and always ask for a bottom bunk. If that ends up being an issue I take the mattress from the top bunk and sleep on the floor.

 

[Albertagirl]

I once arrived at an albergue which had only one available bed, and that was an upper bunk. I was sixty-eight years old at the time and the girl who had pre-booked the lower bunk, claiming health issues. must have been about 20. The hospitalera refused to interfere and I simply kept my mouth shut and waited for the girl to argue herself reluctantly into the position that I needed the lower bunk more than she did. We got along well after that.

 

[Luka]

But 20-year-olds can have health issues as well, can't they? And I have on the other hand also met a very fit 68-year-old that preferred upper beds and jumped from them without using the ladder.

By trial and error I have learned not to judge people who take the elevator to the first floor anymore, because you don't know their story.

 

[Deleted member 67185]

Just wondering. I have never seen it, but would it be profitable for albergues to ask 1 or 2 euros more for a lower bed? And would you pay for that? The question came to mind because I always fear to be assigned to an upper bed. Which (of course) happens in about half of the cases ;-)

I have to go to the toilet once or twice a night and I struggle with climbing down. Maybe it is just my clumsiness or it is because I prefer to only wear a nightgown and want to come down without flashing... For the pilgrims feeling I definitely prefer staying in albergues, but I would without any doubt pay 1 or 2 euros more to be sure to get a lower bed.

Or would it spoil the pilgrims experience of all being equal?

Sadly, that doesn't really solve the nature of your specific need. If extra is charged for a lower, that presumes that if a young and healthy person is willing to pay, they get the bottom bunk, thereby still taking it away from those who really benefit from having the bottom bunk.

 

[Deleted member 3000]

The neuropathy in my right foot makes it impossible for me to climb a ladder. I try to check in early and always ask for a bottom bunk. If that ends up being an issue I take the mattress from the top bunk and sleep on the floor.

Proving that there are always strategies for obstacles. Even with a poster sized list of reasons why I prefer a lower, I will always make choices that do not require the sympathy of a millennial. When I become that self-pitying, I will stop walking.

 

[Antomuchacho]

Sadly, that doesn't really solve the nature of your specific need. If extra is charged for a lower, that presumes that if a young and healthy person is willing to pay, they get the bottom bunk, thereby still taking it away from those who really benefit from having the bottom bunk.

Thats a good point maybe the option of people just lifting the mattress from the top bunk and putting it on the floor would solve the issue if possible!! If there is room and not troubling others

 

[Albertagirl]

Proving that there are always strategies for obstacles. Even with a poster sized list of reasons why I prefer a lower, I will always make choices that do not require the sympathy of a millennial. When I become that self-pitying, I will stop walking.

I do not consider myself self-pitying and I did not attempt to argue her into anything. However, she had been informed that the best way to guarantee a lower bunk was to book in advance and claim a physical need. I am perfectly capable of sleeping out overnight and reasonably capable of climbing in and out of a top bunk (although I am likely to need to do so several times per night). But I preferred to see what would occur if I kept silent and let the young woman talk our situation out. I did not consider her to be a millennial, but a fellow pilgrim. We ended the evening with a long conversation about the meaning of our pilgrimages for two Protestant Christians walking a Catholic pilgrimage route.

 

[Luka]

Sadly, that doesn't really solve the nature of your specific need. If extra is charged for a lower, that presumes that if a young and healthy person is willing to pay, they get the bottom bunk, thereby still taking it away from those who really benefit from having the bottom bunk.

Good point. But that is also the case when an exhausted or injured pilgrim arrives and the albergue is fully booked by pilgrims who made reservations or just arrived earlier. I would never suggest that municipal albergues let pilgrims pay more for a bottom bed. In these kind of albergues it would be best if they always have one or two emergency beds for emergency cases.

But actually I was just wondering why no private albergue does this. From a more commercial perspective. As the poll shows, there seems to be a market for it ;-)

 

[trecile]

I think that Albergue Jaques de Molay in Terradillos de los Templarios had two different types of dorms - standard with bunk beds, or for a couple of euro more dorms with all single beds.

 

[Deleted member 67185]

Good point. But that is also the case when an exhausted or injured pilgrim arrives and the albergue is fully booked by pilgrims who made reservations or just arrived earlier. I would never suggest that municipal albergues let pilgrims pay more for a bottom bed. In these kind of albergues it would be best if they always have one or two emergency beds for emergency cases.

But actually I was just wondering why no private albergue does this. From a more commercial perspective. As the poll shows, there seems to be a market for it ;-)

Probably because, thankfully, the albergues do not think like the airlines?

 

[Luka]

Probably because, thankfully, the albergues do not think like the airlines?

I will think of that the next time I'll have to sleep in a top bunk!

 

[alexwalker]

Just wondering. I have never seen it, but would it be profitable for albergues to ask 1 or 2 euros more for a lower bed? And would you pay for that? The question came to mind because I always fear to be assigned to an upper bed. Which (of course) happens in about half of the cases ;-)

I have to go to the toilet once or twice a night and I struggle with climbing down. Maybe it is just my clumsiness or it is because I prefer to only wear a nightgown and want to come down without flashing... For the pilgrims feeling I definitely prefer staying in albergues, but I would without any doubt pay 1 or 2 euros more to be sure to get a lower bed.

Or would it spoil the pilgrims experience of all being equal?

Albergues will give lower beds to old/needing people if you ask, and if necessary, swap some young folks up. Personally, when I arrive,I ask: Estoy jubilado. Puedo conseguir una cama abajo? (I am retired. Can I have a low bed/bunk?)

Edit: I may be old, yes, but more fit than many, at least some, youngsters. But I prefer a low bunk...

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Nothing to say really except when checking the What's New link I noticed recent posts both here in the Lower Bunks thread and in the Fear Of Heights thread.

 

[C clearly]

I just changed my vote, but am still re-thinking it. I would happily pay extra, because I can, but I would also volunteer to give it up if I saw someone else who seemed to have a greater need. (Usually my old age speaks for itself and I am given a lower bunk, but I could deal with an upper if necessary.) So, do I think albergues should ask for it? No. You have all talked me out of it.

 

[alexwalker]

If you have problems getting a low bunk, try this:

Tengo problemas con mi espalda (I have problems with my back). A winner, especially if you're old.

 

[ranthr]

Alexwalker, did you try this on Via de la Plata? Cannot remember anybody gave you a bed, it was always first come, first choice! And as a slow walker (old,yes) there was never a choice! I guess this is the situation on all caminos these days.

 

[NorthernLight]

Years ago, the first albergue on arrival in Ledigos had an option of a dorm room with bunks or a dorm room with just single beds. When I asked about a lower bunk, they simply put me in the non-bunk room, which was €5 more. I was grateful.

 

[VNwalking]

Probably because, thankfully, the albergues do not think like the airlines?

Best post of the day. Indeed, thankfully!
Albergues are in the business of service, not in the business of 'nickle and diming' pilgrims who come in with legitimate reasons for needing a lower bunk (i.e., age or injury - preference doesn't count).

Sadly, that doesn't really solve the nature of your specific need. If extra is charged for a lower, that presumes that if a young and healthy person is willing to pay, they get the bottom bunk, thereby still taking it away from those who really benefit from having the bottom bunk.

Exactly. I vote a resounding no. It just amounts to a penalty for legitimate need, and the spaces may not be available anyway.

My bad luck is that I am always estimated younger than I am in southern European countries

The hospis have to look at your passport when they sign you in. They will know how old you are.

The kind of twenty-something people who arrive early at an albergue and who thus feel entitled (and attached) to a lower bunk are generally oblivious. They'll only understand how that affects other people when they finally get to a more advanced age and have to deal with being on the receiving end of the entitlement.

 

[celinehenriette]

Am I the only one who acually prefers the top bunk? I like to have a view, to be able to sit up without bumping my head all the time (I am kind of stupid with the remembering thing sometimes) and to not have anyone above me. It's a lot lighter too up there.

I would pay more for the top bunk..clearly, I never had to. Now I understand why I had so many friends on the camino...

 

[blueskywa]

Ah wait, I remember one more time I asked for a different bed... That was on the Norte in the albergue of Guemes. They have bunks of three beds high and they gave me the highest bed. As having fear of heights I had no idea how to climb out of that bed. When I told them they gave me a bed on the 'second floor'.

Oh yes!! I was horrified when I saw those 3 bunks. Luckily I got a low one and the young lads were happy up there

 

[Deleted member 67185]

Am I the only one who acually prefers the top bunk?

So you're the one!

 

[Mugatu]

This question reminds of situation I had at the municipal in Ocebreiro ,and how monetized the Camino can be...

I started the day out of Villafranca to Ocebreiro via Dragonte, sufficed to say when I got there, I was a bit tired and was mulling over the idea that I deserved a reward. So after checking in at the municipal, getting my bunk and saw the “lay of the land”; I decided to book a private room at Meson Anton. As I went to the desk I saw pilgrims that were trying to get beds and I offered them mine as all I did was look at the bed and the covers were still unopened. The person at the desk promptly said no and said they had to pay, and wanted my unopened covers back. All I could think in my head was “Well Buen Camino to you to ...” you can fill in the rest with whatever colorful language you please.

 

[C clearly]

The person at the desk promptly said no and said they had to pay,

I wonder if that might be a policy to prevent people from buying up all the beds to save them for their friends who arrive later. (Effectively the beds would cost twice as much, which would be a definite disincentive.)

 

[Vacajoe]

First off, I LOVE the top bunk because I’m less likely to get “lighthoused” by all the zero-dark thirty pilgrims using their headlights to pack their bags in the dark! But most importantly, you forgot to ask about a MIDDLE bunk...yes, they DO exist!!!!

 

[Leibniz]

Am I the only one who acually prefers the top bunk? I like to have a view, to be able to sit up without bumping my head all the time (I am kind of stupid with the remembering thing sometimes) and to not have anyone above me. It's a lot lighter too up there.

I would pay more for the top bunk..clearly, I never had to. Now I understand why I had so many friends on the camino...

I was like that too as I kid. Couldn’t understand why anyone would want the low bunk. I agree with all your reasons, but oh boy those ladder rungs...

 

[domigee]

The neuropathy in my right foot makes it impossible for me to climb a ladder. I try to check in early and always ask for a bottom bunk. If that ends up being an issue I take the mattress from the top bunk and sleep on the floor.

I have done the same thing. Once on the Via Francigena,I was allocated the last bed, it was a top bunk but no bed guard on either side and it was not against a wall. It was also very wobbly! I don’t normally mind a top bunk but this one was a ‘no, no!’. Better safe than sorry

 

[Mark T17]

I'll take the top bunk everytime! My fear of heights is nothing compared to my fear of bed bugs dropping in my mouth and all over me during the night !

 

[martin1ws]

Alexwalker, did you try this on Via de la Plata? Cannot remember anybody gave you a bed, it was always first come, first choice! And as a slow walker (old,yes) there was never a choice! I guess this is the situation on all caminos these days.

Is this really true? Of course it is always first come, first choice if noone asks...
but if you ask politely and have a need I would think you can change to a lower bed very often (but I haven't tried it because I do not need it).

Sometimes hospitaleras asked me if a top bed would be okay... and of course I said yes. If a pilgrim would have asked me I would have answered the same, even if I had the "first come, first choice" for the lower bed.

 

[Luka]

Albergues will give lower beds to old/needing people if you ask, and if necessary, swap some young folks up. Personally, when I arrive,I ask: Estoy jubilado. Puedo conseguir una cama abajo? (I am retired. Can I have a low bed/bunk?)

Edit: I may be old, yes, but more fit than many, at least some, youngsters. But I prefer a low bunk...

But that makes no difference with the story of the 20-year-old @Albertagirl told about, does it? You ask for a lower bed while you don't really need it.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

But most importantly, you forgot to ask about a MIDDLE bunk...yes, they DO exist!!!!

The ones that have no advantages of the upper or lower bunks and the disadvantages of each. Maybe the albergues should discount those bunks.

 

[Arctic_Alex]

If I wouldn't be injured, highly pregnant or over 70 years old, I would never dare to ask for a swap. Because almost everyone prefers lower beds. (...)

I disagree here. Not sure how it is on the Camino as this April will be my first ever ... but I myself and most people I know very strongly prefer upper beds in shared accommodation! For the added peace and privacy, for not having other peoples' feet in your nose while they climb up ... just to name a few advantages.

In any case if you ask "Hey, anyone who prefers an upper bed? I would swap mine for a lower." ... no one would feel pressed or annoyed, but people like me and my lot would happily agree to swap with you. What can you lose by asking?

 

[KJFSophie]

Too funny when I stayed at the “singing nun” albergue in Carrion i was in bottom bunk with a large man on top. Every time he moved the bunk moaned, groaned and squeaked and I thought” OMG is this how it ends, death by bunk bed!”

LOL!!! I had the same experience ! I didn't sleep all night thinking I was going to my death by being smashed. In the very same alburgue in Carrion, there was a couple in the bunk set next to me. The young woman would climb to the top bunk with her young man and 'engage' ...it was in no way a covert mission as the springs were squeaking and the entire bunk was shaking...yet they carried on in Carrion.

 

[Paladina]

No, I would not pay extra for a lower bunk, but I would happily surrender it to someone who (a) is evidently disabled (b) weighs a great deal more than I (c) has overindulged at dinner (d) has a weak bladder (e) cannot be separated from electronic gadgetry.

 

[dfox]

Just wondering. I have never seen it, but would it be profitable for albergues to ask 1 or 2 euros more for a lower bed? And would you pay for that? The question came to mind because I always fear to be assigned to an upper bed. Which (of course) happens in about half of the cases ;-)

I have to go to the toilet once or twice a night and I struggle with climbing down. Maybe it is just my clumsiness or it is because I prefer to only wear a nightgown and want to come down without flashing... For the pilgrims feeling I definitely prefer staying in albergues, but I would without any doubt pay 1 or 2 euros more to be sure to get a lower bed.

Or would it spoil the pilgrims experience of all being equal?

I think most albergue would not accept this idea for it would cause administrative and customer care issues.

 

[LTfit]

As I haven't seen a reaction from a Hospitalera I thought that I would chime I here. I have volunteered in Grañón, El Burgo Ranero, Zamora, Nájera and in Ponferrada twice and in my experience we try to accommodate "older" or injured pilgrims but...sometimes this is not possible, especially if late in the day.

I usually assign beds alternating upper and lower as they arrive but have on occasion asked a young pilgrim to switch when it seemed appropriate and/or have opened a new room so that a pilgrim could have a lower bunk (in Ponferrada).

What griped me was when a young, fit pilgrim asked me to open up a new room in another section of the albergue because "there is too little space in the room for his things". We are talking about a room with two bunks and two chairs for personal items! I told him no and that the hall way could be used . That said, most pilgrims are considerate and don't complain.

I personally would not pay more for a lower bunk but I am wondering if people would pay more for a single bed in a dormitory.

 

[GraemeHall]

I think that Albergue Jaques de Molay in Terradillos de los Templarios had two different types of dorms - standard with bunk beds, or for a couple of euro more dorms with all single beds.

Yes indeed. I stayed at this one, and decided to splurge the additional 2€. The albergue was quite busy, but I was the only person to "upgrade" and had that entire dormitory to myself (there were about a dozen single beds).

 

[Luka]

In any case if you ask "Hey, anyone who prefers an upper bed? I would swap mine for a lower." ... no one would feel pressed or annoyed, but people like me and my lot would happily agree to swap with you. What can you lose by asking?

You are right, that would be a good way to ask for a swap! But I am sure that if you would do that, you would get several offers

 

[Via2010]

Unless I suffer from an injury I prefer an upper bed. I feel more secure sleeping there.

I know that other pilgrims prefer the bed at the bottom. It is not only a question of health or age.

I can remember that at Mansilla de las Mulas the hospitalero opened a new dormitory for us as he did not like the idea of my dad (then 72) sleeping in an upper bed because some younger pilgrims had arrived earlier and occupied all the beds at the bottom. And I learnt that most pilgrims who do reservations explicitly ask for a bed at the bottom. I do not think that the problem this may present to some older or not so healthy pilgrims could be solved by charging an extra fee.

 

[RJM]

LOL!!! I had the same experience ! I didn't sleep all night thinking I was going to my death by being smashed. In the very same alburgue in Carrion, there was a couple in the bunk set next to me. The young woman would climb to the top bunk with her young man and 'engage' ...it was in no way a covert mission as the springs were squeaking and the entire bunk was shaking...yet they carried on in Carrion.

Many of those bunk bed setups are questionable at times for the weight of just one adult pilgrim, let alone two adult pilgrims engaged in physical activity. There were several times I saw couples pair up on one bunk bed. Sometimes they just slept, sometimes they did not.

 

[Leibniz]

But how are they not just too tired?

 

[Albertagirl]

On my second camino, the church albergue in Granon was closed, so I went on to the municipal at Redecilla del Camino. There were several dormitories and the first was almost full, all the lower beds filled. In a large room, there were only a couple of mobile step ladders to use to get into or out of an upper bunk. When the hospitalera brought me into the room, I just looked around in dismay, not approaching any of the bunks or making any attempt to take a step ladder to climb up. It seemed to me that I could get up, but how would I get down, when the ladder had been moved on? The hospitalera decided to open a second dormitory, so that I could have a bottom bunk.
In some albergues, hospitaleros assign bunks according to how they perceive the needs of the pilgrims. I had a bottom bunk at Najera, but late in the evening, after I had gone to bed, an older man was assigned the lower bunk which was up against my own. During the night, parts of his upper body found their way into my bunk.
Moral of the story: hospitaleros will do their best to provide a safe and comfortable bed to all pilgrims, but we just have to accept what we get in the circumstances and retain our sense of humour. I never did get introduced to the gentleman with whom I (partially) shared my bed. I shall be a hospitalera in Najera in September, and I shall do my best for all the pilgrims.

 

[RJM]

But how are they not just too tired?

Youth overrides fatigue I suppose.
I know when I was in my twenties walking the Camino would have not been very difficult at all, especially the daily recovery time after walking. Two hour nap and fresh and froggy again.

 

[tominrm]

I'd love to pay a little extra for the lower bunker bed, but it would be injustice for young people if all upper
beds are taken and forced to pay extra for remaining lower bunk beds. I have hard time going back to sleep after climbing down and go back up.

 

[caminoresearcher]

Here’s the problem with the idea of charging extra for a lower bunk-right now: there is an honor system in which hospitaleros, and sometimes pilgrims themselves, offer the low bunks to those in the most need-those with injuries or of advanced age. Making this just another commoditized part of the journey could result in ill will, entitlement, and a general loss of pilgrim-ness, in a sense. The albergue is a service, designed to offer pilgrims the most basic needs to get them from one point to the next. Pilgrims are there to care for one another, not jockey each other out of yet another thing that may be badly needed by some.

 

[Vacajoe]

After sleeping on a thin mat on the hard floor at Tosantos (same for Granon), ANY bunk mattress was a blessing! Loved the experience but hard on my weary old bones...

 

[Rebekah Scott]

this is not a new issue!

 

[peregrino_tom]

that third bunk at Guemes. It feels like a long way up.

https://flic.kr/p/egcjTa

 

[nycwalking]

I suspect when that was written there was a definite risk of the bushel catching fire and making a much bigger light.

First off, I LOVE the top bunk because I’m less likely to get “lighthoused” by all the zero-dark thirty pilgrims using their headlights to pack their bags in the dark! But most importantly, you forgot to ask about a MIDDLE bunk...yes, they DO exist!!!!
View attachment 53412

Top bunk here!

Growing up in earthquake country my mind could never rest anywhere else.

that third bunk at Guemes. It feels like a long way up.

https://flic.kr/p/egcjTa

Any bunk.

Too adventurous to care which.

 

[Leibniz]

Oh wow that’s HIGH!

 

[Luka]

Yup, that was the place I didn't dare to go....

 

[JabbaPapa]

"Would you pay extra for a lower bed?"

Most certainly not -- indeed the whole idea is entirely obnoxious IMO

Why on Earth should those of us actually needing the lower bed for health reasons be forced to pay extra for it ???

The whole idea sounds like just one more scam to try and touristify the Camino entirely.

 

[mlhhome]

At 6’3, I used to prefer lower bunks until I received a self-inflicted concussion when I got up/ laid back/ put on the paper sheet/ plugged in my charger,etc.... it seems I would remember the low upper bunk but apparently I had short term memory issue.

It took a few albergues before I learned to take the top bunk and stave-off those nasty headaches.

 

[Antonius Vaessen]

Another way to "monetize" this problem is that if I arrive early enough to secure me a lower bed I could ask a few euros to change beds.

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Another way to "monetize" this problem is that if I arrive early enough to secure me a lower bed I could ask a few euros to change beds.

Great idea. Carrying it a bit further I wonder how many pilgrims I can get to pay me to stay home this year so that there will be one more bunk free every day of their camino.

 

[VNwalking]

Best post of the day, @Rick of Rick and Peg .
And....
Fat chance.
Sorry.

Most certainly not -- indeed the whole idea is entirely obnoxious IMO
Why on Earth should those of us actually needing the lower bed for health reasons be forced to pay extra for it ???
The whole idea sounds like just one more scam to try and touristify the Camino entirely.

What I was too polite to say. Agree entirely. (But I actually do not think the OP was serious, so neither should we be.)

 

[C clearly]

What I was too polite to say. Agree entirely. (But I actually do not think the OP was serious, so neither should we be.)

Whether the OP was serious or not, it was a good question that I didn't find obnoxious. The responses made me think a bit and change my initial reaction.

 

[VNwalking]

Whether the OP was serious or not, it was a good question that I didn't find obnoxious. The responses made me think a bit and change my initial reaction.

Ah, @C clearly, you're just less opinionated than I or @JabbaPapa , bless your heart. Fair enough.
And...I have to say I am surprised to see so many 'yes' votes.
Obviously the airlines have got all of us used to the idea that having to pay for perks is actually OK.
(What was I saying about not being serious? I'll stop now....)

 

[C clearly]

Ah, @C clearly, you're just less opinionated than I or @JabbaPapa ,

No one has ever accused me of being less opinionated that someone else. But you know, I think you might be right in this case! I am really mellowing!

I favour the "paying for perks" on flights. It makes flying much more affordable than it used to be. (Just to prove you wrong about opinionated!)

 

[VNwalking]

No one has ever accused me of being less opinionated that someone else.

Ha! There is always a first time.

I favour the "paying for perks" on flights. It makes flying much more affordable than it used to be.

The thing about albergues, though, is that they already are affordable.
Paying for a lower bunk is just a penalty for age and infirmity - and as @davebugg already said, it doesn't relieve the crunch.
But we agree. . .

 

[JabbaPapa]

No one has ever accused me of being less opinionated that someone else.

Live and learn ...

 

[Luka]

The OP was half serious. I was just wondering. And for my kind of people (introverts) there is another side to 'having to pay for a lower bunk'. The freedom not to have to ask for it. If I could buy that freedom by paying 1 or 2 more euros more, I would be very tempted.

In that case I would be able to organize a lower bunk independently, without needing the mercy of a hospi or another pilgrim. It would leave me out of the judgement of somebody else whether I really need that lower bunk or not. It would leave me out of awkward moments like having been denied a lower bunk when I limped into Roncevalles.

But, on the other hand, I also really sympathize with the idea of the Camino spirit of sharing and helping each other out. And the principle of not monetizing everything.

Boy, have I got dead serious now...

 

[Deleted member 3000]

It would leave me out of the judgement of somebody else whether I really need that lower bunk or not.

I suggest you not worry about the judgement of people like that. Think like Groucho Marx:

"PLEASE ACCEPT MY RESIGNATION. I DON'T WANT TO BELONG TO ANY CLUB THAT WILL ACCEPT PEOPLE LIKE ME AS A MEMBER."

 

[Leibniz]

On the London underground, all the carriages have several seats, placed near the doors, reserved for pregnant women, or people carrying children, or the elderly and less mobile. Many of these people actually travel for free or at a reduced price (children/elderly). I hate the idea that people who pay the full fare somehow would have more of a right to those seats because they pay more.

I'm glad there is still a tiny little bit of "to each according to their needs" spirit left in some places. And I really hope the Camino is a place where there is still a lot of that spirit about.

 

[lt56ny]

Just wondering. I have never seen it, but would it be profitable for albergues to ask 1 or 2 euros more for a lower bed? And would you pay for that? The question came to mind because I always fear to be assigned to an upper bed. Which (of course) happens in about half of the cases ;-)

I have to go to the toilet once or twice a night and I struggle with climbing down. Maybe it is just my clumsiness or it is because I prefer to only wear a nightgown and want to come down without flashing... For the pilgrims feeling I definitely prefer staying in albergues, but I would without any doubt pay 1 or 2 euros more to be sure to get a lower bed.

Or would it spoil the pilgrims experience of all being equal?

I like the lower bunk so just leave early and you’ll get one.

 

[susanawee]

I've never fallen off any bed, so I don't know why I would be more inclined to fall off a top bunk.

La Finca is the best! And the restaurant there is very good too. They also let you use the washing machine for free.

but......there is always a first time for everything

 

[mralisn]

If one could imagine what Winnie the Pooh would look like climbing up and down to a top bunk, that would be me. Reaching anything with arms or legs is nearly impossible. There have been times when I have been dangling until someone helps. How embarrassing.

Bottom bunks or even floors are best for me. Since I prefer leaving quiet as a mouse in the morning or having to pee in the night, bottoms bunks are best for me. However, I have no problem with moving myself if I notice someone else who could benefit more than me for lower bunk.

No matter where I sleep, every day (and night) is a great day on the Camino.

Trust in the arrows,
Simeon

 

[T0M]

This is interesting. We could do a camino version of Dr. Milgram's subway experiment:

'Excuse Me. May I Have Your Seat?' (Published 2004)

Two New York Times reporters do unscientific re-enactment of Dr Stanley Milgram's experiment of 30 years ago in which he sent graduate students into crowded New York City subway cars to ask riders to give up their seats; 68 percent of riders asked by Milgram's students gave up their seats; Times...

www.nytimes.com

68% of NY subway riders gave up their seats to healthy-looking individuals. How generous are pilgrims compared with NY subway riders?

You are taking this "unscientific" experiment to a whole new level of unscientificness by judging the motive to give up a seat as "generous".

On the camino, if a "healthy-looking" student asks for my lower bunk without an explanation (as in the experiment) I would most likely decline. I would place a low value on the opinion of anyone who judged me to be not generous.

 

[gml]

This is interesting. We could do a camino version of Dr. Milgram's subway experiment:

'Excuse Me. May I Have Your Seat?' (Published 2004)

Two New York Times reporters do unscientific re-enactment of Dr Stanley Milgram's experiment of 30 years ago in which he sent graduate students into crowded New York City subway cars to ask riders to give up their seats; 68 percent of riders asked by Milgram's students gave up their seats; Times...

www.nytimes.com

68% of NY subway riders gave up their seats to healthy-looking individuals. How generous are pilgrims compared with NY subway riders?

The only way to answer this question is to put a large group of pilgrims on the NY subway and ask them to give up their seats to healthy-looking individuals.

 

[ClaireJJ]

Just wondering. I have never seen it, but would it be profitable for albergues to ask 1 or 2 euros more for a lower bed? And would you pay for that? The question came to mind because I always fear to be assigned to an upper bed. Which (of course) happens in about half of the cases ;-)

I have to go to the toilet once or twice a night and I struggle with climbing down. Maybe it is just my clumsiness or it is because I prefer to only wear a nightgown and want to come down without flashing... For the pilgrims feeling I definitely prefer staying in albergues, but I would without any doubt pay 1 or 2 euros more to be sure to get a lower bed.

Or would it spoil the pilgrims experience of all being equal?

Whenever I have fantasized (or actually drawn out) the model albergue, there are no "top bunks" - at least not those accessed by ladder; stairs improve the situation. I think it's fair to say I hate top bunks - for the reasons you stated and maybe more. I remember at one albergue I was given permission to put the top bunk mattress on the floor. But, I think as long as there are top bunks, it would probably cause more problems to not distribute them randomly and without regard to fee. And, I always hesitate to ask someone to change with me - in fact I have never done so - cause I don't think I ever heard anyone say they prefer a top bunk.

 

[trecile]

Whenever I have fantasized (or actually drawn out) the model albergue, there are no "top bunks" - at least not those accessed by ladder; stairs improve the situation. I think it's fair to say I hate top bunks - for the reasons you stated and maybe more. I remember at one albergue I was given permission to put the top bunk mattress on the floor. But, I think as long as there are top bunks, it would probably cause more problems to not distribute them randomly and without regard to fee. And, I always hesitate to ask someone to change with me - in fact I have never done so - cause I don't think I ever heard anyone say they prefer a top bunk.

I definitely prefer the top bunk at Albergue La Finca

Albergue la Finca - El Albergue

www.alberguelafinca.es

 

[gerip]

Twenty years ago I always preferred the upper bunk (and I wasn't so young then ). I find that if the person in the upper bunk isn't a sound sleeper they keep me up as well. Now after double knee replacement I have no choice. Don't have to ask, just show folks the scars.

 

[gerip]

I definitely prefer the top bunk at Albergue La Finca

Albergue la Finca - El Albergue

www.alberguelafinca.es

View attachment 53656View attachment 53657

Thanks! It's on my list! Wanted to find a place near Fromista.