During peak season, how hard is it to get hostels on a whim? I'm currently under the impression that getting one is like striking the jackpot at Caesars Palace....not going to happen. Am I wrong in this assumption? I don't mind staying a few miles out of town if that will increase my chances. I'll be traveling through Spain, Germany, Netherlands, and Ireland. Maybe France, Austria, and Belgium. Are some of these countries more popular with backpackers than others? I would worry less about the less popular ones, and it could really help with my planning. Thanks in advance for any help provided.