More than 300 are operated by the Swedish Tourist Association. Membership of an organisation affiliated to the International Youth Hostel Federation is not compulsory but provides concessionary rates.

Breakfast buffets are available at most youth hostels but not at all of them; check before you book or arrive at the hostel. Otherwisebring your own food for breakfast, and indeed for dinner unless you have something else planned.

Guests have access to self-catering kitchen facilities at all youth hostels, at no extra charge. The kitchen equipment varies and is sometimes very limited. Sheets, towels and cleaning are not included in the lodging costs. You can always rent or buy sheets/towels at the youth hostel if you do not bring along your own. Each guest must clean his room to the satisfaction of the next guest. You can often buy cleaning services for a small fee.

Average 2000 price at STF hostels: SEK 75-180 per night (SEK 40 additional for non-IYHF members). Children's discount at STF hostels: Children pay only SEK 50-75 per night if their parents hold the Hostelling International Card or a national HI membership.

SVIF is a smaller grouping of 135 independent hostels in Sweden which have no membership requirement.