What to expect from a youth hostel

What are youth hostels exactly?
Youth Hostels are a global phenomenon, run by the National Youth Hostel Association in each country. Each hostel has to meet Assured Standards set by the International Youth Hostel Association.

A stay in a youth hostel is a sociable experience. It's ideal for young travellers or those travelling alone who want to make friends.

So are they just for young people?
Youth Hostels aren't just for "youths"—youth hostels take travellers of any age. But you do need to be a member of the YHA to stay in a Youth Hostel. The easiest way to become a member is to join one in your home country. There are lots of discounts available for families/groups and longer memberships—there's even a lifetime membership. You can also buy gift vouchers.

How much do they cost?
Youth Hostels are renowned for offering budget accommodation but prices vary from country to country and hostel to hostel. The new breed of more luxurious youth hostels means you can sometimes end up spending what you would in a hotel, so make sure you cost up your stay beforehand.

Bring extra cash for the deposit for your sheets on arrival. Some ask for cash in order to use showers too.

What are the rooms like?
Most youth hostel accommodation is dormitory style. These can vary in size though, from as few as four beds per room to over 30. Check with the individual hostel.

If you're concerned about staying in a mixed-sex dormitory, ask about this. It's also worth enquiring about private rooms, which are becoming increasingly popular.

Your youth hostel will provide you with bedding, but not towels. Some youth hostels have en suite facilities but, again, check this in advance.

What other facilities are there?
Lockers for you to stow your valuables are a common youth hostel feature, as is a kitchen for making your own meals. Other typical communal rooms in a youth hostel include a TV room, library, common room and laundry facilities. Internet facilities are also commonplace now in youth hostels, though don't expect Wi-Fi in your room.

Facilities for disabled guests are also becoming more common in youth hostels, though do check in advance.

Remember:
While you're not staying in a five-star hotel, a certain level of cleanliness is expected in youth hostels. Do give feedback if you feel things aren't up to scratch.

You should be able to come and go as you please at a youth hostel—so don't agree to any curfews. However, remember additional guests aren't welcome... unless they pay.