Who is HI-USA?

Registered as American Youth Hostels Inc., Hostelling International USA (HI-USA) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1934 to promote international understanding of the world and its people through hostelling. HI-USA is America’s largest network of quality hostels and belongs to the International Youth Hostel Federation (IYHF). The entire IYHF network, known as Hostelling International (HI), offers more than 4,000 hostels in more than 60 countries. HI-USA offers nearly 80 hostels across the United States – from the Hawaiian shores to the New England coast.

HI-USA hostels range in size, location, and style – from urban high-rise buildings to rural, historic structures – but all operate on the HI Quality Standards, which are built upon superb customer service, comfort, cleanliness, security, and privacy. The HI Standards team, as well as regular “mystery shopper” programs with budget travelers, make regular, unannounced visits to HI-USA hostels to assure that all standards are met.

HI-USA is associated with 31 councils throughout the United States. These councils provide local members and visitors with a wise range of special programs, events, trips, and recreational activities, including ongoing educational and travel workshops and travel newsletters.