Tired of spending all of your business trips in swank hotels? If so, then here’s good news: the Hostelling International-USA organization has launched a loyalty program that rewards frequent hostelliers with free nights at their favorite hostels.
Hostelling International-USA is a nonprofit membership organization founded in 1934 to promote understanding of the world and its people through hostelling. HI-USA operates a network of 110 hostel accommodations throughout the United States, from $8 per night in rural areas to $24 per night in large urban centers. In addition, HI-USA members can take advantage of membership in the International Youth Hostel Federation (IYHF), a network of more than 4,000 hostels in over 60 countries.
By joining HI-USA for a $28 annual or $250 lifetime membership fee, you can take advantage of the organization’s “Free Nights and More” program, which rewards members with 10 points per stay at participating HI-USA chapter organizations, which thus far include chapters in Boston, New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, Denver, San Diego, Sacramento, Sausalito and Idaho Springs. There are also participating hostels in Austria, England, Wales and the Netherlands.
The number of points required to earn a free night varies by hostel; you can earn a free night in Seattle for 100 points (or 10 nights), but other cities can be much higher. Points can also be earned and redeemed for HI-USA-sponsored tours, meals and other activities. The points expire after two years.