Over 75 years of hostelling experience in Canada

Hostelling International-Canada (HI-Canada or HI-C) is a not-for-profit, member-based organization, and a national member of the International Youth Hostel Federation (IYHF - brand named "Hostelling International"), the largest travel association in the world. HI-Canada has now a network of 60 hostels, from coast to coast; some owned, some affiliated. Hostels affiliated with HI-Canada are regularly inspected for high standards of cleanliness, safety, environmental sustainability and available facilities.

The practice of hostelling was brought to Canada more than 75 years ago, but HI-Canada's mission is much the same today: to help make travel affordable and practical for everyone, especially young people -- making it possible for anyone to experience different cultures, languages and landscapes, and create enriching and life-long memories and friendships. More on HI-Canada's History...

 HI-Canada's Mission

"To help all, especially the young, gain a greater understanding of peoples, places and cultures through hostelling."

By providing affordable accommodation for all ages, we strive to make travel accessible for people of all nations, but especially young people of limited means. Our hostel network enables travellers from different countries, cultures and backgrounds to share stories, learn about one another and create lasting memories. This kind of enriching experience encourages personal growth and cultural understanding and awareness.

Hostelling International Membership

Membership is the heart and soul of hostelling. A membership with Hostelling International is more than just an affordable place to sleep on your travels. By joining our association of travellers, HI hostels will open the door to meeting new people, learning about amazing places and understanding different cultures. Your Hostelling International membership will help you see the world while supporting our mission.

Commitment to Youth, Cultural Understanding and Environmental Stewardship

Hostelling and respect for the natural environment go hand in hand, and HI-Canada is a leader of environmental responsibility in the Canadian hospitality and tourism industry. More on HI-Canadas Environmental Statement...

We promote Peace and Understanding

Intolerance, ignorance and misunderstanding are the root causes of many of the conflicts and tragedies afflicting humanity across the world, from far-off lands to right next door. The youth hostelling movement has a role to play in making things right.

"We strive to bring together peoples of the world, so that sharing a meal, or wandering along a trail, they may learn to appreciate each other's viewpoint and outlook, and realize that we are a world brotherhood."Our task is in short to promote world peace, not by treaty or statesmanship, but by creating in the hearts of the people of all lands a deep mutual understanding." (Jack Catchpool, former IYHF president)

Along with the stated purpose of hostelling, HI-Canada (as a member of the IYHF) also strives towards these goals on international, national and regional levels through UN initiatives and the sponsorship of world youth conferences, Peace and Understanding, themed travel talks, and like minded art exhibits. More on the HI building bridge program...