Independent Hostels UK is the largest hostel network in the UK. Other networks in the UK include the Youth Hostel Association, Scottish Hostels, Hostelling Scotland and NIYHA.
There are hostel networks all over the world. Details of these and other hostel networks and given below with links to their websites.
The dominance of large booking plateforms such as Hostelworld and Booking.com, means that independent hostels are getting fewer direct bookings to their own websites. In many cases these small independent businesses are being held to ransom by the large companies, who take between 10-20% of the overnight price in booking fees.
Support your hosts by booking direct on the hostel’s own website or the network websites below.
Hostel Networks – European Independent HostelsA non-profit community to help backpackers discover authentic Europe on a budget. Independent hostels, provide authentic and amazing experiences for their guests and have a fantastic social environment, which is not the case in chain hostels. No commissions, book direct with your hostel. 100% Safe and secure. |  | |
Hostel Networks – Independent Hostels UKThe UK’s largest hostel network and publishers of the Independent Hostel Guide. Click here to see Hostels in Wales, Hostels in Scotland, and Hostels in England |  | |
Hostel Networks – Swiss HostelsQuality independent hostels and budget hotels in Switzerland. Swiss Hostels offer accommodation for individual travellers, families and groups. Checking-in at any of the 20 Hostels, you will feel at home with the friendly and helpful staff. Come and stay different in Swiss Hostels! www.swisshostels.com |  | |
Hostel Networks – Independent Hostels of GermanyA network of 50 hostels in 27 cities all around Germany which specialise in giving a service to individual guests rather than groups. They are all independently run and promise you a ‘holiday with a heart’. All hostels forfil a quality criteria set by the organisation and offer self catering facilities or cheap meals. www.german-hostels.de |
| |
Hostel Networks – Independent Holiday Hostels of Ireland – NOW CLOSEDIndependent Holiday Hostels of Ireland (IHH) was founded in the early 1990s. In 2005 the membership has grown to over 80 members throughout the island of Ireland. Each hostel equipped with a kitchen/common room, linen/bedding, and hot showers. IHH hostels strive to provide a high level of customer care, cleanliness and courtesy to ensure your comfort and enjoyment. www.hostels-ireland.com |  | |
Hostel Networks – Backpackers Canada – NOW CLOSEDBackpackers Hostels Canada / Auberges Backpackers Canada is a network of nearly 120 independent hostels across Canada. You will want to stay at a backpackers hostel during your travels in Canada. Not only will you save money so you can spend it on adventure rather than accommodation, but you will meet intelligent, fun, and interesting people from all over the world. By travelling via our network of hostels, you will find Canada to be an exciting destination in all seasons! www.backpackers.ca |  | |
Hostel Networks – BBH – New Zealand Backpackers HostelsBBH produces the famous World Traveller Accommodation Guide. It is the most established independent hostel network in New Zealand and provides comprehensive details for over 220 great quality hostels. Committed to helping you stay longer, BBH offer a price guarantee – $4 savings per person per night with a BBH club card. www.bbh.co.nz |  | |
NAHA – North American Hostel AssociationAdvocating for and empowering member hostel operators in North America, fostering their business interests, and advancing the overall hostel industry through resources, advocacy, and collaboration. www.northamericanhostels.org |  | |
Hostel Networks – Swedish Youth Hostels in CooperationSVIF was founded in 1991 and is an association of free-standing youth hostels and independent hostels in Sweden. Each youth hostel is run according to their own set of principles. The collaboration between the hostels is primarily targeted at marketing and other common interests. www.svif.se |
| |
Hostel Networks – Europe’s Famous HostelsEurope’s Famous Hostels is an association of individually owned, independent hostels. The association was founded in 1995 when it was made up of just 5 members. In 2021 there are 36 hostels in Europe and Israel. |  |
