Overview of Hostelworld Affiliate Program

Hostelworld is a globally recognized online booking platform specializing in hostels and budget accommodations. Their affiliate program offers marketers and travel content creators a well-established opportunity to earn commission by promoting their extensive inventory of properties worldwide.

The program is designed for affiliates ranging from bloggers, travel websites, influencers, to large travel portals, leveraging Hostelworld’s trusted brand and user-friendly booking experience to drive conversions.

Commission Structure

• Commission Rates: Affiliates earn a commission based on a percentage of the booking value made through their referral links. The rate typically starts at around 7.5% of the net booking value, but exact tiers can vary depending on performance and negotiations.
• Commission Type & Frequency: The commissions are paid on a per booking basis and are considered one-time commissions for each successful booking. There is no recurring commission from repeat stays or renewals from the same booking.
• Sub-Affiliate Commissions: The program does allow for sub-affiliate or second-tier commissions, but details such as the specific commission percentage on sub-affiliate referrals are typically handled by the affiliate network platform managing the program and can vary. Affiliates interested in sub-affiliate options should confirm within their platform.
• Cookie Duration: Hostelworld uses a cookie window typically lasting 30 days. This means that if a customer clicks an affiliate link and makes a booking within 30 days, the affiliate will receive credit for the booking.
• Affiliate Network Management: The Hostelworld Affiliate Program is managed through well-known affiliate platforms, including AWIN and Impact. Affiliates sign up on these platforms to access tracking, reporting, and payments.

Hostelworld Promotion Policy

✅ Allowed Promotion Channels

• Travel blogs and review websites
• Social media platforms including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest
• Email marketing with subscriber permission
• YouTube and other video content platforms
• Paid search campaigns (subject to network and program approval)
• Display advertising compliant with program terms

❌ Disallowed Promotion Channels

• Spamming via unsolicited emails or messaging
• Unauthorized coupon or deal sites promoting unapproved discounts
• Trademark bidding or using Hostelworld brand terms in PPC campaigns without explicit permission
• Any deceptive or misleading advertising
• Infringement of Hostelworld’s intellectual property rights
• Fake or fraudulent leads and bookings

Commission Payment

• Approval Timeframe: Commissions are usually approved after the customer successfully completes their stay or cancels outside of the cancellation policy timeframe to avoid chargebacks. This process typically takes about 60 days after the booking date.
• Minimum Payout Threshold: The minimum balance for receiving payment is usually set at around $20 or equivalent in local currency, though this can slightly vary per affiliate network.
• Payment Frequency: Hostelworld processes affiliate payments on a monthly basis. Payments are typically issued within the first two weeks of the following month after commissions are approved.
• Payment Methods: Payment methods commonly include PayPal, bank transfer (wire), and checks, depending on the affiliate network and the affiliate’s selected preferences.

Conclusion

The Hostelworld Affiliate Program offers a reliable and competitive opportunity for affiliates specializing in travel and budget accommodation niches. Its well-defined commission structure, reputable affiliate platforms (AWIN and Impact), and global brand presence provide a solid foundation for steady affiliate earnings. Affiliates who comply with promotion policies and optimize their traffic channels stand to benefit from a 30-day cookie window and a robust monthly payment schedule.

For the latest and most detailed information, affiliates should always refer to Hostelworld’s official affiliate resources on their affiliate network dashboards.