The term 'youth hostel' is rapidly becoming a misnomer. For one thing, most hostels are open to all people of all ages in virtually every country where they are located. And, fortunately for the budget traveller, many have started to offer more than the old concept of just a bed for the night (if you returned before the evening curfew). If you're planning a trip on a limited amount of money, it's worth enquiring about membership and hostels before you set out. As the largest, and perceived by many as the most reliable budget accommodation in the world, the International Youth Hostel Federation tends to be a safe first port of call. Membership (£12.50 for adults; £25 for families and £6.25 for under-18s, for residents of England and Wales) brings a wide range of discounts, a guide to youth hostels and regular member magazines, along with an introduction to a worldwide network of 4,500 hostels in 60 countries in Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas and the Pacific. You can join in your home country or take out international membership on arrival at most hostels. Alternatively, you can often stay at hostels without being a member, but may have to pay a bit more. In general, prices are low enough to enable the budget traveller to spend precious funds on exploring the country.

Standards vary widely - you'll get the best reviews by speaking to fellow travellers and asking around. Youth hostels belonging to the International Youth Hostel Federation (look for the distinctive blue-and-white sign) are safe bets as they are required to sign up to rigorous standards of cleanliness and security. The ethical traveller may be reassured to know that these hostels also have to meet 'care for the environment' guidelines.

Hostel accommodation has come a long way since the days of huge dormitories and unfriendly opening times. It isn't unusual to find small comfortable bedrooms with en-suite or adjacent facilities; and many hostels have single, double and family rooms which are popular and need to be booked well in advance. Depending on the hostel's location, you could benefit from a full catering service or self-catering kitchens geared to the needs of the traveller. Many hostels have bars and serve drinks with meals or welcome adults who wish to 'bring their own'.

The other big improvement in recent years has been the disappearance of 'lock-outs' during the day and of curfews in the evening. In the main, opening times now vary to suit the visitor, with many city centre hostels staying open right around the clock. Other services available at popular tourist destinations include foreign exchange, travel deals, email facilities, activity breaks and guided walks along national trails.

While all hostels try to meet uniform standards, this doesn't mean that they are as bland as some cheap hotel chains. Hostels are certainly much much cheaper, they provide more social contact with other travellers, and each youth hostel is a unique experience. You won't wake up in Toulouse thinking you're in Toronto; but neither will you be so anxious about holding onto your money belt that you can't get your documents out in peace. Hostels are secure and friendly, offering a real sense of place. The old notion of asking each hosteller to undertake a chore before departure has largely disappeared, but a helping hand is still welcome, particularly in smaller rural hostels which are often run by volunteers. This spirit of camaraderie is part of the hostelling ethos and creates a feeling of belonging and ownership amongst members, which can be useful if you're suffering from travel stress or an unexpected bout of homesickness.

Hostels of the world

Youth hostelling started in Germany in 1907 and there are now over 600 hostels there. These are often larger than average and of a high standard. They are very popular with school groups. Priority is given to the under-27s; in Bavaria there is a maximum age of 26 imposed by local legislation, for those who are not group leaders or accompanying their children.

France has 200 youth hostels, ranging from the Alps to the Mediterranean and from Brittany to Paris. For instance, you can stay right in the heart of the medieval city of Carcassonne or in the popular ski area of Chamonix Mont Blanc, for only 72 French francs. In Italy there are 70 hostels in cities ranging from Venice to Rome as well as in the countryside - where some are even 'green hostels' in areas of particular environmental interest.

In Malaysia, it's possible to sample the bright lights of Kuala Lumpur or Penang, or the simplicity and peace of Melaka Beach very cheaply indeed, by checking into one of the country's five hostels.

New Zealand's 55 youth hostels are well placed in city centres, national parks and prime scenic areas. They are particularly well equipped - try the hot pool at Rotorua. Australia's youth hostels span the country. They range from big, well-serviced hostels on the tourist trails, to tiny places offering the chance to experience the 'outback', where you collect the key from a neighbour.

Hostels in Brazil have on average only 50 beds and are very cosy. Most stay open 24 hours a day, leaving you free to samba until the small hours. In Costa Rica, hostels follow ecological conservation regulations based on sustainable development. Each hostel has something different, from Spanish courses to white-water rafting.

South Africa's emerging tourist industry is well served by youth hostels. The Baz Bus, aimed at backpackers, picks up and drops off travellers at hostels along the way. One of the highlights is Sondzela Backpackers, located right inside the lovely Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in the Ezulwini Valley: here you can see wildlife on foot, from a bicycle or on horseback.

There are 140 youth hostels in America, covering major cities and popular national parks and rural attractions. Extensive hostel chains can be found in California, Florida, Colorado, Alaska, the Pacific north-west and the north-eastern States. In Canada, you might not believe you're in a youth hostel as you walk into the elegant Canadian Alpine Centre/Lake Louise Youth Hostel, with its internationally renowned restaurant and every amenity for the ski-board enthusiast. Likewise at Banff Youth Hostel, a mile up the hill from Banff town at scenic Tunnel Mountain. Both have interactive information and email kiosks and bring skiing within the reach of the budget traveller.