History
We've been accommodating backpackers since 1909!
2009 marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of the youth hostel movement. In Germany in 1909, a schoolteacher called Richard Schirrmann had the idea to create a network of budget accommodation options across the country to be used by school groups or older, independent travellers. The first permanent youth hostel was established in Germany in 1912. In fact, you can still stay in Altena Castle youth hostel today. The International Youth Hostel Federation, known as Hostelling International (HI) today, was established in 1939.
Beginning as modest quarters in barns and schools during the holiday periods, hostels today are the mainstay of budget travelers. They offer so much more than just a bed. You're likely to find the 'noughties' traveler using the hostel's wifi connection on their laptop or iPhone to update their blog and share videos with friends back home. Movie theatres, free pancake breakfasts, wildlife sanctuaries and swimming pools are just some of the things you'll discover in YHA hostels in Australia today.
Each year, 35 million overnights are spent in Hostelling International hostels around the world. There are now more than 80 participating countries, representing over 4,000 hostels worldwide. Over 120 of these hostels are in Australia, and there are more than 70,000 Australian members continuing the tradition at home and abroad. For more information on becoming a member click here.