Sorry Chaplain that is the most ridiculous custom i've never heard of. If you need something take it, if you have more than you need leave something. As far as hostels having to put some things on the shelf to get rid of the overflow or make few bucks, as long as the sell the stuff at a discount i wouldn't have a problem with it. Hostels provide a good service and lets face it they are not getting rich off us hikers. if they make a few extra dollars selling stuff they would eventually have to throw away to make ends meet, more power to them. I cant imagine what a thru would cost if we all had to find a Holliday Inn. BTW the last part of this statement was not directed at you Chaplin just a general rant.