How to Join a North American Youth Hostel

Hostels commonly use bunk beds to save space.

Whether you are looking to save money while traveling across the country or are interested in spending time with travelers from around the world, hostels provide an excellent bedding option on your trip. With many bunks all in the same room, hostels sacrifice the privacy and comfort of individual rooms for the lower costs and benefits of interaction with others. Planning in advance of your trip allows you to decide on the best schedule and hostels for your needs.

Things You'll Need

• Sleeping bag

Instructions

1. Research available hostels in the locations you will be stopping. Online hostel databases, such as Hostels.com, HostelWorld.com and HostelNorthAmerica.com, can help you plan.

2. Book your stay in the hostel online in advance to ensure they will have a bed available for you.

3. Arrive at your chosen hostel, and claim your bed at the front desk if you have reserved in advance.

4. Interact with others staying at the hostel. An advantage of staying at a hostel is the chance to meet others from around the country and the world.

5. Store your belongings in a locker at the hostel.

6. Sleep on your rented bed inside your own sleeping bag. While a blanket and pillow are commonly provided, guests are asked to bring their own bags.

Tips & Warnings

• Joining Hostelling International is required at some hostels and offers a discount at others.

References

• Reid's Guide: Hostels -- Travel with Bunk Mates

Resources

• Hostel North America
• Hostels.com: North America
• Hostel World: North America
• Hostelling International USA