How do Hostels work in Europe?
I was wondering what are the Youth Hostel associations that I should join so I can use their beds when I travel round Europe?
Here are the main countries I will be visiting:
- France
- Italy
- Croatia
- Hungary
- Austria
- Germany
How do hostels operate in Europe?
Will my YHA card work there?
In the UK if you do not have a YHA card you cannot use the hostel to sleep in.
What cards do I need to get to use Hostels in Europe?
Is there any discounts or promotional cards I can get that will reduce my costs?
Note: I have only had experience of Youth Hostels when I was a kid travelling in the UK so things might have changed since then.
Best Answer
In Europe you have hostels that are in the (Youth) Hostel International, but the most hostels are not associated. You will need the card only if you go to these hostels. In my experience, the HI Hostels are more expensive than regular hostels in some Europe countries, but they assure a minimum quality standard. So if you are worried about cleaness, staff, etc, perhaps it's a better choice to go these hostels.
Last time (some years ago) I had one of these cards, it cost me 6 euros. And if I remember well, there is an option where you can get a card "by stamps" (you pay one new stamp each night until you fill your card and then you have one year, it's more expensive but better if you don't use it extensively).
Pictures about "How do Hostels work in Europe?"
Are hostels safe in Europe?
Hostels in Europe are very safe. To minimize the risk of any negative experiences, most hostels have good security features, processes, and staffing. Online reviews are a good way to check the features of a hostel before booking.Are hostels in Europe free?
A bed in a hostel will cost anywhere from $10+/night (in Eastern Europe) to $40+/night (big cities in Western Europe).What is provided in a hostel?
Typically, a hostel features a large room with separate beds, a shared bathroom, and a communal kitchen. Some hostels have private rooms, but the lower-cost ones generally offer bunk beds. Hostels originated in Europe, but they've grown in popularity and you can find them all over the world.Do European hostels provide bedding?
Hostels almost always provide bedding, but the towel's up to you (though you can usually rent one for a small fee). Bathrooms are usually just down the hall and likely have a room with a few toilet stalls, and another with showers. Most hostels offer kitchen facilities, Wi-Fi, and a self-service laundry.BEGINNERS GUIDE TO HOSTELS (What to REALLY expect)
More answers regarding how do Hostels work in Europe?
Answer 2
IME many hostels will accept people who aren't members of a hosteling organisation, but they might sometimes charge you more. Some hostels will let you join the organisation when you turn up, though it might be cheaper in your home country.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Ivan Samkov, Luciann Photography, Luciann Photography, Ksenia Chernaya