And you can expect clean, well run facilities with a knowledgable staff. Membership assures you a warm welcome at any of their hostels all over the world. Membership gives you discounts off the already low prices. Many times a guidebook will list a member and a non-member price for a one night stay. Some may require you to purchase a membership card before you can stay there, so it is best to get the card before you leave home.
Most hostels have NO age restrictions.
Card details here . Another type of hostel are those that are privately owned. These can have even more special ammenities. Many have their own bar or sell alcohol on the premises. Hostels in general have a few options for rooms.