Frequently Asked Questions

What are shared accommodations?

Your room will have 6 beds so you will be sharing your room with other hostellers. We have male, female, and co-ed rooms for men and women traveling together. Each bed has a personal reading lamp and assigned locker (15.5" X 18"  X 34"    39.4cm X 45.75cm X 86.4cm) for storage. You may bring your own lock or purchase one at our front desk.  Keep valuables with you at all times.

How can I reserve a bed?

Making a reservation is simple. You can reserve on-line or by phone. We need at least 24 hours notice for a reservation. In order to make a reservation, you need a valid Visa or MasterCard. Reservations are always recommended. For more information, please link to our "reservation page".

Am I charged at the time of reservation?

No, a credit card guarantees your reservation. Payment is taken at check-in.

How many nights may I stay at the hostel?

The maximum number of nights that you can stay in any calendar year  is 14.

What Identification do I need?

Each guest must have a government issued photo ID such as a passport, driver's license, state/provincial or national identity card, military service card, or alien registration card. Hostelling International membership card are required for member discounts. Unfortunately we cannot accept ISIC cards, college, school and university IDs.

What if I'm not a member?

No problem. You can always buy a membership on-line.   You can also buy an annual or daily membership ($3) at check-in.

What time do I check-in & check-out?

Our staff will make every effort to check you in no matter what time you arrive. If your room should happen to not be available yet, you can relax in our dining room and enjoy a cup of complimentary coffee until it is ready at 12 noon. Check-out is at 11:00 AM. Hostelling International-Boston is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Can I store my luggage?

We have coin operated lockers for your convenience.  Guests with travel departures after our 11 AM check-out can store luggage in our secure coin lockers for your day of departure only.   We have no long term storage facilities.  The fee is from $1 - $3 depending on the size of the locker.  Sizes range from:

10.5" X 16.5" X 8.5"   to   16.5" X 36" X 32.5"

26.6cm X 41.9cm X 21.6cm   to    41.9cm X 91.4cm X 82.5cm      

For security and safety reasons we are not allowed to except luggage or packages for long term storage.  Unfortunately our lockers can only hold bags for the day you check-out.  

Are there any age restrictions?

HI-Boston is open to guests at all ages. All guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or chaperone for group visits.

Do I need a sleeping bag?

We include the cost of all bed linen and towels in the overnight fee. Boston public health regulations prohibit the use of sleeping bags in our dormitories.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellations require 24 hour notice. You will be charged for the first night if you do not arrive or call in advance to cancel.

Is breakfast included?

Yes, we offer free coffee and breakfast pastries in our first floor dining area.

Can I receive phone calls?

Yes, but there are no phones in the rooms. Messages can be left at the front desk.

Do you have parking?

No, but at the front desk we have information about parking garages. (Directions page)

Do you have laundry facilities?

Yes, we do. The washers cost $1.00 (soap is on sale for $.50 ) and the dryers are $1.00 per load. It takes approximately 90 minutes to wash and dry.

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