Do I need an HI card? - TravelPUNK Backpacker College Student Budget Travel Message Boards!

foofiter · 01-10-2005, 01:52 PM

Do I need to nab a Hostelling International Card? I will be staying in Hostels for my entire 2 week trip coming up and I was wondering if I should pay the $28 or just let it go. Opinions?

foofiter

skorch · 01-10-2005, 02:36 PM

Tough question. My HI card gets me a 10% discount at a local backpackers store. That made it worthwhile for me.

It really depends on where you're going to be traveling to and what your lifestyle is. I personally avoid HI hostels in europe. They usually have curfews and alcohol restrictions which don't jive with me. But they're normally reliable and institutional which some people like. That being said, I just bought my 2005 HI card last week. But also remember that there are HI hostels back home.. Let's say you're traveling to the mountains for some boarding. There's usually going to be an HI hostel there. On average, your HI membership will save you $3-5/night depending on the country.

**TheWills** · 01-10-2005, 02:50 PM

I personaly didnt go with a HI card, however if your planning a trip too Europe and it saves you that 5 bucks a night then I would probably go for one, it would just be nice to have that extra bit of peace of mind knowing your saving that much more, but also 5 bucks isnt worth it if there are curfews and lockouts and all that stuff. If your looking too party then maybe avoid it, if you wanna sightsee go for it.

**TheJake** · 01-10-2005, 03:37 PM

In the states I dont like the HI hostels and would perfer to stay in locally operated ones. In brasil however the HI hostels were the nicest and I have no idea about europe.

foofiter · 01-10-2005, 05:37 PM

I think I am gonna skip it then I dont think any of the places I am starying are HI hostels. I booked thru hostelworld.com. They dont specify on my reservations so I assume they are not. I dont think I would be able to recoup the $28 anyway. Thanks guys!

foofiter