Can you be too old for hostels?
That’s a question that Plus Hostels asked and answered in a recent blog post. What do you think?
With so many people these days either losing their jobs, becoming dis-satisfied with the 9 to 5 lifestyle, or simply just getting into their 30s, 40s, and .50s realising that they put off their life for other things, it is becoming more popular for those outside the 18 to 30 age band to go travelling!
Some hostels prefer older travelers, while others have maximum age limits. Do you get many “older” guests in your hostel? (I shudder to think that 30+ is considered “older” but given that the target market is usually 18-30 it does fit)
Are there particular hostels that cater more to an older demographic?
What I have found is that there are certain types of hostels which tend to have slightly more older traveller than others. In particular, the more upmarket hostels are usually filled with more of a mixed age band than the absolute dirt cheap hostels where standards are not as good. I think once you get past a certain age, even if you're happy roughing it sometimes, there are certain standards that you're just not willing to accept. As a nice bonus though for older travellers you'll probably find if you book a better standard of hostel you're more likely to find a few folks your own age. The same goes for chain hostels (unless they are a party chain) and hostels affiliated to an association. Usually in these types of hostels you'll have more chance of finding another traveller or travellers who don't fit the gap year kid mould.
I would imagine that the “more upmarket” hostels might appeal to the ones who taking a break from the 9-5 routine, (essentially on vacation) while the “absolute dirt cheap” hostels might still attract the older and more experienced backpacker crowd.
What about the idea that chain hostels are more likely to have older guests? Would you agree with that?
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