Stay Free at Hostels Around the US Through This Volunteer Program

This program is a great way to combine local volunteer service with an educational and social reward for groups that love to travel and explore. Participants will enjoy the chance to experience a hostel while connecting with people worldwide in exchange for their time and contributions to the community. Volunteers can find meaning through their work and meet new friends.

Photo courtesy Hostelling International

While enjoying their time at the hostels, guests will enjoy the opportunity to meet new people, use the community kitchen at no extra charge, and partake in all scheduled hostel activities — including the property’s free hosted events, tours and social happenings.

Most HI USA hostels offer complimentary Wi-Fi, have kitchens available for guests to store and prepare food, offer bike racks and storage, and have safety features like lockers for guests’ belongings.

HI USA is additionally proud to be committed to a sustainable travel experience. Each hostel employs environmental standards ranging from limited or no plastic on-site — to timed water usage in showers, reusing grey water, and composting, among other initiatives.

The 10 hostels across the U.S. that will be participating in the program include HI  Boston, HI Chicago, HI Los Angeles Santa Monica, HI New York City, HI Point Montara Lighthouse, HI Pigeon Point Lighthouse, HI Sacramento, HI San Francisco Downtown, HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf and HI San Diego Downtown. Those interested can apply now to participate for stays in January and February of 2024.

Groups applying can either select the charity of their choice or be matched with a local charity through Volunteer Match. Those interested in applying for Great Hostel Give Back can apply online.