{"alias":"contentPage","byline":null,"standfirst":null,"content":{"layouts":[{"type":"sidebar","areas":[{"items":[{"type":"Promo","cta":"","body":"\u003Cul\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#Introduction\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#Introduction\u0022\u003EIntroduction\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#Hostels\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#Hostels\u0022\u003EHostels\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#YHA\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#YHA\u0022\u003EYouth Hostel Association (YHA)\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#Independent\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#Independent\u0022\u003EIndependent Hostel Network\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#Safe\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#Safe\u0022\u003ESafe Hostelling\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#cooking\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#cooking\u0022\u003ECooking and Catering\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022#FAQ\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022#FAQ\u0022\u003EFAQ\u0027s\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPublished September 2026.\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022Introduction\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003EIntroduction\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EHostelling is a fun way for young people to go on adventures, make new friends, and learn new skills. Hostels can be safe, friendly places to stay while exploring the outdoors and trying exciting activities. Whether it\u2019s a weekend away or a longer trip, every night away is an opportunity to form new connections and develop new skills.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022Hostels\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003EHostels\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EA hostel, sometimes referred to as a youth hostel, is a place where people can stay for a short or long time. Their goal is to provide affordable accommodation that gives people access to some of the country\u0027s most beautiful parts. Groups may sleep in private, or shared, rooms and use shared kitchens, dining rooms, and other shared spaces. They are a brilliant example of building a community and having a shared respect for adventure. Due to their large bunk rooms and access to nature, they could be the perfect place for your group\u0027s next night away.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022YHA\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003EYouth Hostel Association (YHA)\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThe Youth Hostel Association (YHA) is an organisation that runs hostels across England and Wales. They have over 100 youth hostels and campsites across the countryside and towns. \u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ENot only does the YHA offer good quality hostel accommodation, but they also have some fantastic sites available for camping at some of their locations. As a camper at one of the YHA sites, you\u2019ll either have your own dedicated facilities or be able to make use of the hostels. Whether that\u0027s cooking up a storm in a self-catering kitchen or just freshening up after your night under the stars, you\u0027ll feel every bit as welcomed as the hostel guests.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThere are also two other organisations called Hostelling Scotland and the Hostelling International Northern Ireland (HINI). They provide similar locations outside of England and Wales.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYou can find information about hostels that have camping facilities at:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca rel=\u0022noopener\u0022 href=\u0022https://www.yha.org.uk/hostels?filters%5Bcamp%5D=camp\u0022 target=\u0022_blank\u0022 title=\u0022Find a hostel (Youth Hostels Association)\u0022 data-anchor=\u0022?filters%5Bcamp%5D=camp\u0022\u003EFind out more about \u003Cspan\u003Ehostels that have camping facilities\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E.\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022Independent\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003EIndependent Hostel Network\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EThe Independent Hostel Network is run by small team that helps people find great places to stay for camps, trips, and adventures. They bring together over 370 sites across the UK on the \u003Ca href=\u0022https://independenthostels.co.uk/\u0022\u003EIndependent Hostel Guide Website\u003C/a\u003E, so you can quickly find the right place for your group. Each listing gives useful information about the hostel, including the facilities, number of beds, and nearby activities. They also make it clear to see which discounts are available, ranging from 10% to free for youth groups!\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EWhether you are planning a weekend camp or a longer adventure, the guide makes it easy to compare different hostels and choose one that suits your young people. Many hostels are close to walking trails, outdoor activity centres, and places to explore. With the Independent Hostel Guide, you can spend less time searching and more time planning an amazing trip for your young people.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIndependent Hostel Guide:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://independenthostels.co.uk/\u0022\u003EIndependent Hostel Guide | Independent Hostels in the UK\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIdeal Scouting sites and discounts:\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022https://independenthostels.co.uk/scout-accommodation/\u0022\u003Ehttps://independenthostels.co.uk/scout-accommodation/\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022Safe\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003ESafe Hostelling\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EWhilst most hostels don\u2019t have any age restrictions, there may be some hostels that are unsuitable for young children or guests with disabilities. It is always good to double-check beforehand by checking the relevant hostel website or contacting the hostel directly.\u0026nbsp;\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EGroups must follow the \u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safe-scouting-cards/safeguarding-code-of-conduct-for-adults-yellow-card/\u0022 title=\u0022Safeguarding Code of Conduct for Adults - Yellow Card\u0022\u003EYellow Card\u003C/a\u003E, which includes key requirements:\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cul style=\u0022margin-top: 0cm;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022 style=\u0022mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\u0022\u003ESeparate sleeping accommodation for young people, adults and Young Leaders volunteering with a younger section\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cul style=\u0022margin-top: 0cm;\u0022\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022 style=\u0022mso-list: l0 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\u0022\u003ERespect children and young people\u2019s right to personal privacy\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003Cli class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022 style=\u0022mso-list: l2 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list 36.0pt;\u0022\u003ETreat everyone with dignity and respect in line with Scout Values\u00A0\u003C/li\u003E\n\u003C/ul\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EEach hostel will have its own set up of rooms and accommodation. It should also be noted that youth hostels can have adult members of the public as guests as well as young people. Therefore, to follow the Yellow Card, Scout groups with u18s must only stay in dormitories or rooms where exclusive use is guaranteed so that young people and adults have separate sleeping accommodation. You must also plan where and how young people can change safely and privately. You may wish to consider collaborating with other Scout groups to secure exclusivity of a sleeping space.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u00A0As with any Nights Away event, you should consider any risks associated with the accommodation, including shared facilities, fire procedures, security, and sleeping arrangements. It is important that leaders fully familiarise themselves with fire and security arrangements and brief young people appropriately. It is the responsibility of the Nights Away permit holder to make sure you have made appropriate arrangements for sleeping and privacy that fall in line with our guidance.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EIt may be necessary to create separation within dormitories of young people, for example by sex, age group or to meet any identified support needs. You must also plan where and how young people can change safely and privately.\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Cstrong\u003EPractical ways to support this include:\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/strong\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u2022\u00A0 Talking with young people about what they are comfortable with\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u2022\u00A0 Speaking with parents/carers to understand their preferences\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u2022\u00A0 Positioning people\u003Cu\u003E \u003C/u\u003Ein different parts of the room\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u2022\u00A0 Use temporary partitions such as tarpaulin or indoor tents to create private spaces\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u2022\u00A0 Moving mattresses to other suitable spaces within the accommodation\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EConsider the needs of adult volunteers too. They may require separate sleeping arrangements by sex or to meet any support needs, and they need safe and private spaces to change.\u00A0\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EDiscuss your proposed sleeping arrangements for both young people and adults with young people, their parents/carers, and volunteers in advance, ensuring everyone is comfortable and agrees with the plan.\u00A0\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/volunteer-experience/digital-tool-guides/nights-away/\u0022 title=\u0022Nights Away\u0022\u003ENights Away guidance.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022/volunteers/staying-safe-and-safeguarding/safeguarding-in-the-programme/nights-away-and-safeguarding/\u0022 title=\u0022Nights Away and safeguarding\u0022\u003ENights away \u0026amp; safeguarding guidance.\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"RichTextBlock","content":"\u003Ch3 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022cooking\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003ECooking and catering\u003C/h3\u003E\n\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMost youth hostels have kitchens where Scout groups can cook their own meals. This helps keep costs low and gives young people the chance to learn useful cooking skills. Many hostels have everything you need, including cookers, fridges, pots, pans, and plates. Some hostels also offer affordable catered meals, making it easier if you have a busy programme or a large group. It should be noted that many hostels have shared kitchens with the public, so you should respect other people\u0027s usage. Whether you choose to cook or be catered for, there are options to suit every trip.\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Ch3 class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003E\u003Ca id=\u0022FAQ\u0022\u003E\u003C/a\u003EFAQ\u0027s\u003C/h3\u003E","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"gridType":"accordion","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","showExpand":false,"items":[{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYes, many hostels have exclusive hire. Some don\u2019t advertise this on their websites, so it is always good to contact the site to see if they offer exclusive hire.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can I book out a whole hostel?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMany hostels offer accessible bedrooms, bathrooms and step-free access, although facilities vary between locations.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Are hostels accessible?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYes, if the hostel you are using is indoor accommodation and fits the permit description.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can I use a hostel on an Indoor Nights Away Permit?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EMany sites allow all ages to attend, however some do have age rules and restrictions. You should contact the site and check before booking.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can I take Squirrels, Beavers or Cubs to a Hostel?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003ESome hostels have everything you could need, such as bedding, pillows and cooking equipment, however many sites are more basic in what they provide. Always check in with the site so you know what you need.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"What do I have to bring to a Youth Hostel?"},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EYes, many Hostels have a drying room or drying facilities. It should be noted that this space maybe shared with other guests.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"Can I dry clothes if needed on a night away? "},{"gridType":"accordionItem","gtmId":"","gtmClass":"","body":"\u003Cp class=\u0022MsoNormal\u0022\u003EEach hostel will have its own level of security. Many hostels provide rooms with locks or keys to help keep belongings safe. For those that do not, there are often facilities such as secure storage areas or lockers where personal items can be safely stored.\u003C/p\u003E","label":"How do I keep items safe whilst away from the Hostel? "}]}]},{"items":[{"type":"Promo","cta":"Read more on YHA benefits","body":"","link":{"name":"YHA Membership and Benefits","id":null,"url":"/volunteers/running-your-section/planning-your-programme/nights-away-and-camping/nights-away-resources/hostelling/yha-membership-and-benefits/","newWindow":false,"target":null},"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"YHA membership and benefits","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Promo","cta":"Read more on the Independent Hostel Network ","body":"","link":{"name":null,"id":null,"url":"https://independenthostels.co.uk/","newWindow":false,"target":"_blank"},"colour":"#ffe627","title":"Independent Youth Hostel Network","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""},{"type":"Promo","cta":"","body":"\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http://www.yha.org.uk\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EYHA (England and Wales)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http://www.syha.org.uk\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EHostelling Scotland\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E\n\u003Cp\u003E\u003Ca href=\u0022http://www.hini.org.uk\u0022\u003E\u003Cspan\u003EHINI (Northern Ireland)\u003C/span\u003E\u003C/a\u003E\u003C/p\u003E","link":null,"colour":"#f1f1f1","title":"Further information","image":null,"imageFocus":"","imageId":0,"imageKey":"00000000-0000-0000-0000-000000000000","imageCrop":"","gridType":"card","gtmId":"","gtmClass":""}]}],"config":null}]},"searchDescription":"The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) believe travel, adventure and discovery transforms young lives.","pageType":null,"location":null,"browserTitle":"","versionDate":"15 July 2023","reviewDate":"02/11/2020","redirectUrl":"","id":46693,"nodeName":"Hostelling","title":"Hostelling","type":"contentPage","image":null,"assets":null,"headerOptions":{"headerTitle":"Hostelling","headerSubTitle":"Hostels are a great way to stay in some of the most exciting places across the UK. (FS120072)","headerCta":"","headerCtaText":"","headerCtaLink":"","headerBackgroundColour":"ffe627","showSEOImage":false,"headerBackgroundImage":null,"quickLinks":[]},"subHeader":"The Youth Hostel Association (YHA) believe travel, adventure and discovery transforms young lives.","silktide":"eyJjbXMiOiJVbWJyYWNvIiwiZWRpdG9yVXJsIjoiaHR0cHM6Ly9wcm9kLWNtcy5zY291dHMub3JnLnVrLy91bWJyYWNvIy9jb250ZW50L2NvbnRlbnQvZWRpdC80NjY5MyJ9","canonicalUrl":"https://www.scouts.org.uk/volunteers/running-your-section/planning-your-programme/nights-away-and-camping/nights-away-resources/hostelling/"}