The Youth Hostel Association's future

Many years ago, I joined the Youth Hostel Association (YHA) as a life member. I can’t remember how much it cost, possibly about £100, but it was an easy decision. The primary reason I did was because they offered a good discount when you buy goods from a range of outdoor activities shops. As someone who enjoys an outdoor lifestyle, paying less on everyday essentials was attractive. It was a purely financial decision.

Today I cancelled my membership. Why?

Hostels versus hotels

I’ve never stayed in a YHA hostel, and never will. As a hostel rather than a hotel, even if they are more up market, the idea of sharing a room with a total stranger doesn’t appeal. Neither does having to go outside your room to visit a shared bathroom.

The YHA has made efforts to make themselves more appealing to a more discerning clientele. Some hostels have private rooms with a bathroom, but they still have bunk beds which range in number from two to eight. Having eight beds is useful if you’re travelling in a group, but it’s not for me.

Location, location, location

“To enrich the lives of all, especially young people, by providing brilliant hostel stays and experiences that improve physical health, mental wellbeing, and life skills.”

The YHA’s mission statement perfectly describes why it exists. There are around 150 hostels in the UK with most in rural locations, although there are hostels in towns and cities. This lends itself to those going walking, cycling, or climbing in the great outdoors.

Together with the mention of “especially young people” and the YHA’s mission seems a perfect fit to a slightly bygone age. An admirable age maybe, just one that lacks resonance these days.

It’s all about the money

Cost is also a factor. For a two bunk private room, the cost is approximately £80. That’s cheap, but when you’re competing with hotel chains like Premier Inn and easyHotel, it isn’t as attractive. They have double beds with a bathroom. You pay your money and make your choice, but I know which one I’d pick.

The future?

The YHA is selling off some of its hostels. You can still book a stay in them, but they won’t be managed directly by the YHA. The reason this is happening is financial. As a charity, it must raise funds to support its work. The Covid pandemic hit the charity hard, and it’s trying to recover from it.

The market for those wanting a hostel experience is there, but it is dwindling. With most young people having access to cars, the need to stay in a rural location isn’t as attractive. Being able to come home to a cheap and clean hotel near good restaurants and bars appeals. That’s worth paying a bit more for.

Will the YHA exist in 50 years? Probably, but it will be a much more niche organization with fewer properties. That’s a shame, but like any other business, it needs to keep up with the times.