Book direct
Book direct and we both benefit
Last year, about £2million of YHA's income was absorbed by third-party booking agents.
As a charity, we'd much rather invest this money in improving young people's health, wellbeing and life skills. We think you would too. Please book direct and help us make a difference to more young people.
Benefits of booking directly with YHA
Benefits of booking directly with YHA
What are you waiting for? Book direct today
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Fair pricing promise
YHA is a charity operating on social enterprise principles. Income from paying guests is invested into our running costs and the upkeep of hostels across England and Wales. This income, along with the support we receive from members, donors and volunteers, enables us to deliver brilliant hostel stays and experiences that improve health, wellbeing and life skills, for all – including those who would otherwise miss out. Read more about the difference we make to over a million young people each year.
Our hostels can be found in locations other accommodation providers often cannot cover. To maintain these unique and historic properties, we must strike the right balance between fair and affordable prices while ensuring we cover our costs. We therefore use dynamic pricing throughout the year, adjusting prices according to demand and supply, in line with our fair pricing promise.
Our promise
- YHA members who book direct through yha.org.uk will receive 10% off every booking
- Customers will always pay the lowest price by booking directly with YHA (our best price guarantee)
- Our prices for paying guests, averaged across the year, will aim to cover all operational and ongoing maintenance costs for the entire network – supporting the long-term sustainability of the charity
- To offer discounted breaks and additional support to those who need help to access our services, working directly with at least 100 groups and charities
- To work with partners and charities to deliver funded breaks for children and families with challenging lives
Is it cheaper to book directly with YHA?
Yes, it is cheaper to book directly with YHA. Booking directly on the YHA website guarantees you the lowest price and unlocks exclusive discounts.
If you find a cheaper rate elsewhere, we will refund the difference with our Best Price Guarantee.
Do I need a YHA membership to book?
No you don’t need to be a member to book with YHA. Many people assume membership is required to stay with YHA but this is not the case. Anyone can book accommodation with us as a non-member.
But of course, if you do decide to join YHA as a member (starting from just £20/year for adult membership) you’ll be able to take full advantage of all our exclusive offers and discounts. Plus you’ll be helping us meet our charitable objective of transforming young lives forever through travel and real adventure.
Best price guarantee: what are the benefits of booking directly with YHA?
Booking directly with the YHA guarantees the lowest available price for your accommodation and pre-booked meals.
When you book directly with us we guarantee the lowest price available, beating the rate found on any third party online travel agency – or we’ll refund you the difference back.
YHA exclusive offers: what other exclusive offers or discounts are there for direct bookings?
Whilst non members can book all accommodation types, taking out membership with YHA can make huge financial sense as it also unlocks exclusive discounts.
For example, YHA members receive 10% off the cost of accommodation as well as pre-booked meals. We also get together with like-minded brands to bring our members exclusive deals with retail partners.
Other discounts available include special offer ‘Hot Deals’. Keep an eye out on our website!
There are also additional discounts for students and young people (ages 16-26) as well as special group rates for schools and groups (including Scouts, Guides and those involved in the Duke of Edinburgh awards.) Group bookings can be reserved with a small deposit and come with free leader places and dedicated youth group deals.
Seasonal promotions include "Kids eat for £1" whenever you buy an unlimited breakfast costing £11.95 or a main meal costing £10 or more on your family holiday.
How do I use my YHA membership discount when booking online?
To use your YHA membership discount, simply log in to your YHA account before starting your search. As a member, your 10% discount on accommodation and pre-booked meals will be automatically calculated.
YHA cancellation policy: can I change or cancel a direct booking?
Once a booking has been placed, it cannot be altered. If your plans have changed, you can cancel your booking online (cancellation charges apply).
Can I book an entire hostel, cabin, lodge, or camping pod directly?
Yes you can book any number of accommodations types directly with YHA. Whether you are part of a large group looking to book at the entire hostel (in which case you’ll need to visit our exclusive hire hostels) or you’re looking for a Landpod in the Lake District, we can take your booking directly via our website.
Can I book dog-friendly accommodation directly with YHA?
Pets are not permitted in hostel rooms with the exception of highly trained assistance dogs, which are welcome at any YHA site free of charge. Please let us know if you intend to bring an assistance dog during the booking process.
However, dogs are absolutely welcome to stay at many of our Camping & Cabins sites for a charge of £10 per dog per night in our Camping & Cabins accommodation. If you’re sleeping in your own tent then it’s free to bring your dog. Up to two dogs are permitted per booking.
Up to four dogs are also welcome when you book out a whole hostel for exclusive hire.
What's included when I book direct?
Anyone staying or visiting a YHA hostel is welcome to access the free Wi-Fi in communal spaces. If you’re staying with us, you are welcome to make use of our showers as well as our communal lounges and self catering kitchens, which are a brilliant idea if you’re looking to keep down the cost of eating.
Alternatively, many of our hostels have their own café, licensed bar and restaurant on site so you can take full advantage of having breakfast, lunch and dinner provided for you if you prefer.
All bedding (cosy duvets, crisp linen and comfy pillows) is provided and ready for your arrival in all dorm rooms and private rooms.
You’ll just need bring along a towel, toiletries and a hairdryer if you need one. Chuck in some earplugs if you’re a light sleeper.
Best price guarantee
If, after booking on yha.org.uk, you find an equivalent offer on another website for the same hostel at a lower price and within 24 hours of making your reservation, we promise to refund you the difference.