My son and his friend are traveling to London for New Years. They are planning on staying in youth hostels. Can anyone give me information on these? I am a nervous mother sending him overseas for the first time. Are there any other options for inexpenisve housing in London?

As a student he will have little problem. You can typically get rooms for two or you can opt for the cheaper, dorm type sleeping arrangements. I no longer am required to sleep in those places but they are all (that I have experienced) well tended clean & spartan to say the least. No frills, no TV (except typically in a common area), a cot & shower (possibly shared), not much different than college living really.

He'll be fine and they will probably like the chance to meet people from all over the world.

One thing to keep in mind is that some hostels are party places and some are quieter and more staid. Which type do they want?

Other options for inexpensive housing would be Priceline (if it works) or dorm accommodations at universities (like the LSE). One example of the latter is Holborn Hall.
http://www.londontown.com/LondonHote...h_Holborn_Hall (link selected at random)

If using Priceline, read up about it first at http://www.betterbidding.com and http://www.biddingfortravel.com .

it is absolutely the best thing for them. i got my education about other people and ideas in hostels. they should not do it any other way.

Thanks for the responses. I'm feeling better already!