Great Hostel Give Back

Each January and February, HI USA offers groups of 6 or more a chance to earn free overnight stays at our hostels across the country in exchange for volunteer service in our communities. Whether you're an alternative break group, sports team, club, or simply a group of friends looking to give back, the GHGB is here to help you make your volunteering trip more affordable.

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Here's how it works:

Travel

Choose your destination from participating HI USA hostels across the country. From major cities, to small towns and national parks, we offer a huge range of destinations coast to coast. New to hostelling? Learn more about hostels here.

Volunteer

Before making your hostel reservation, arrange a volunteer project with a local organization in your destination of choice. Need help finding a volunteer project? Check out our suggested service sites or visit VolunteerMatch.org. For each day your group spends two or more hours volunteering locally, you’ll earn a free overnight stay with us (up to four nights).

Earn free stays

Our hostels offer up to four free nights’ accommodation while your group volunteers locally. During your stay, our lounges, kitchens, and dining rooms ensure plenty of opportunities for your group to connect with other travelers, and we invite you to join in with our free events, tours, and activities to explore the hidden gems of the city with us. Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Applications for GHGB 2025 are now open!

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Here's why groups love the GHGB:

City High School

"The Great Hostel Giveback made a profound and positive impact on our group! We hope that our efforts continue to positively impact the environment, the lives of those in need, and inspire a sense of responsibility and community engagement among our students."

Thomas Jefferson University's Honors Institute

"It was such a wonderful experience. We were able to help out the local community, meet people from all across the world, and explore New York City. I look forward to doing this again!"

Sierra Service Project

"Sierra Service Project has participated in the Great Hostel Give Back program for many years, in now three cities! We love how it allows our group to gather for low cost, focusing our energy and resources on service-learning and community building."