Comments on: Price isn’t everything, even for budget travellers

By: David Whitley

David Whitley — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 08:54:26 +0000

There are many reasons why backpackers choose a hostel. Sometimes it’s about the sociable aspect – particularly in destinations known for their party vibe (ie. Airlie Beach, Hervey Bay, Cairns), the cities or places that are definitely part of the backpacker scene rather than the mainstream (ie. 1770).

But the bits in-between? I don’t think so – it’s price that counts. Certainly, double/ private rooms in hostels are probably priced too high. Usually there’s no difference between the cost of a double and good quality motel/ three star resort etc.

And I think hostels need to be wary about that pricing, because if the Hilton is available for roughly the same price, people will start to ‘treat’ themselves here and there. Any hostel charging more than $60 (maybe $65) for a private room should be seriously rethinking that policy. I recently travelled down the QLD coast, fully prepared to stay in hostels (but private rooms – don’t do dorms any more). It turned out that I could usually get a good motel/ resort room for almost the same amount every step of the way.

Also, in places such as Hervey Bay and Airlie Beach, the friends are made in the 4WDs and on the boats. There’s no need for the hostel rent-a-friends as you’ve just spent 2/3 days bonding with them. I think most would sooner take the higher grade accommodation and just agree to meet everyone in the backpacker bar.

By: vince

vince — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 05:30:59 +0000

I think for independant travellers , hostels have nothing to worry about , but when it comes to couples who may be driving around Australia , a cheap hotel will win out everytime .

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 04:57:43 +0000

I agree Missy.

I think hostels should drop their rates to retain their backpacker customers and increase the price gap between a big comfy bed, television and privacy in a hotel and BYO sleeping bags and a dorm in a hostel.

After all, backpackers can still visit hostel bars for entertainment so who’s to say they won’t opt for a bit of luxury for their accommodation if the price isn’t that different?

By: Missy

Missy — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 03:23:08 +0000

While I agree with the article, it does make me wonder as to how Hostels/Backpackers justify a price that is now comparible to 3-4 star hotels. Are they charging for the social atmosphere that such an establishment boasts? Certainly the rooms and services they provide aren’t worth it. I’m dissapointed that cheap accommodation seems to be a thing of the past, no matter how much socialising is involved.

By: greg cole

greg cole — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 02:19:01 +0000

Neerav: Course I don’t get it. But then I’m such a dick that I didn’t realise people could sleep on a double-twitter with nice facebook sheets; or luxuriate in the privacy and comfort of social networking after a long flight. Or that the conversation regarding the price of a bed was actually about social networking on a computer.

Thanks for the heads-up about price being irrelevant in the budget market. A revelation if there ever was one.

By: Neerav

Neerav — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 01:56:00 +0000

Greg you just dont get it

To use an analogy

Hotels like the Hilton = Maisntream broadcast media

Hostels like YHA’s, backpackers etc = Facebook, Twitter etc

The social element is key, price comparisons between the two are irrelevant

By: greg cole

greg cole — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 01:43:17 +0000

Bollocks! If the Hilton and a good hostel achieved price-parity the Hilton would win every time.

By: Neerav

Neerav — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 04:50:37 +0000

Your article is spot on Martin

When I go on holidays such as my recent backpacking trip to NZ, chatting with people from different countries, learning about their culture etc is one of the best parts of the trip