Earth Day and Earth Month are perfect times to show some love for our beautiful planet and get inspired to protect it every day. At Hostelling International (HI), we believe that every little action makes a big difference, and everyone can join in with simple daily habits. Think about all the cool ways we can help out. From using the latest building technology to hosting fun clothing swaps, reusing furniture to picking local, seasonal foods. Not forgetting simply recycling to saving water and energy! To celebrate Earth Month, we want to give a shout-out to some HI hostels that are rocking sustainability and responsible travel. They are great role models and can give awesome tips to eco-friendly hostellers looking to reduce their impact while exploring the world. 🌍✨
Stayokay, The Netherlands
Stayokay were the first ho(s)tel chain to receive the EU Ecolabel for non-food products. Specific information on your chosen hostels can be found on their individual “Sustainability” tab. Here are a couple of our favourites: Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark is a beautiful, very green hostel, with a glass house in the restaurant full of tropical plants. Here they separate waste and help with green projects in the neighbourhood. Stayokay Dordrecht, set in De Biesbosch National Park, has beautiful views over the water and even offers a special way to spend a night….Wikkelhouses! These tiny houses are made of recycled cardboard, ideal for an eco-friendly break! In addition, they have bee hives and produce their own honey too, give it a try at breakfast! Check out their other hostels here!
Movijovem, Portugal
The Portuguese network of hostels, Movijovem, are working hard for a sustainable future with HI-Quality & Sustainability certification in not just a few, but ALL of their hostels! Read more here and support their eco-friendly initiatives. Staff can tell you how your hostel is contributing to sustainable tourism, and help with some tips too, such as reusable “to go” bamboo teaspoons. The hostel network in Portugal is vast and diverse but we have chosen a couple for you. HI Parque das Nações, fully renovated in 2023 and just a few metres from the main attractions of the eastern part of the city, for its great vibes and a lively atmosphere. Another star is HI Braga, an innovative example of urban requalification, located in the heart of the city, with excellent access and a great stay for all ages. Have fun!
YHA Australia, Australia
Committed to sustainability, YHA Australia also aim to be leaders in regenerative travel for the future. With each stay you are making a difference so don’t hesitate and dive in to some of their award winning hostels! YHA Sydney Harbour, perfect to explore the iconic Opera House, Harbour Bridge and the Botanic Gardens. Its amazing views over the harbour, combined with state-of-the-art facilities ensure a fantastic stay, with a unique heritage experience. Newly refurbished YHA Brisbane City has a great mix of conservation and sustainable practices and services. It’s also centrally located for Suncorp Stadium event goers who can then relax at the rooftop pool. Take a look at other YHA options and start planning your next fun filled, sustainable adventure down under! Enjoy!!
Swiss Youth Hostels, Switzerland
Swiss Youth Hostels (SYH) are pioneers in environmental and climate protection. Anyone staying with them can make a voluntary contribution and SYH will double their generous offer, to help global and internal climate projects. Their restaurants offer guests a chance to meet other hostellers while keeping their tummies happy too! Award winning hostels include the seasonal youth hostel Gstaad Saanenland. This modern building, designed in a typical chalet style, complements the town’s inimitable charm and is a fabulous spot for sports lovers with a great restaurant too! Scuol Hostel is great for mountain lovers and foodies, with the cuisine focusing on regional produce from local farmers! The hostel fulfils the requirements for the Minergie sustainable construction label.
HI Iceland, Iceland
HI Iceland believe in a sustainable future for humankind and take an active role in promoting sustainability within their community. Most of energy here is geothermal, so HI Iceland have gone a step further, implementing eco-practices and initiatives across all areas of operations. From monitoring energy consumption to weight limits on guest waste per year, and also organised events on how to recycle and reuse materials, they lead by example. Their hostels are hubs for cultural exchange. In Reykjavik, both city centre Loft HI Hostel and Dalur HI Hostel, based in a green oasis in the city suburbs, are certified with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel. Both hostels offer a great base to explore and regularly trained staff can help advise on upcoming events, guaranteeing a memorable and sustainable stay!
🌍✨ Reducing your impact while travelling is a great way to protect the future of our planet but it does not have to be hard work. Travel brings joy, adventure, education, cultural exchange, and of course many unforgettable memories! Start planning your next trip with Hostelling International and join us in creating a sustainable future. By adopting simple daily habits and supporting eco-friendly hostels, we can make a significant difference. This Earth Month, let’s draw inspiration from hostels that excel in sustainability and responsible travel. Together, we can cherish and protect our beautiful planet every day. 🌍✨
