Backpacker travel insurance could be a handy purchase for people planning a stay in New Zealand hostels that are attracting crowds.
The Dominion Post reports that low-cost hostels and caravan parks across the country have seen increased visitor nights of up to five per cent, according to figures from Statistics New Zealand, as a result of backpackers being less affected by the global downturn and local people holidaying closer to home.
Low-cost accommodation has also become more appealing as better facilities are now available for people who might normally have wanted a bit more luxury.
Fergus Brown, chief executive of the Holiday Park Association, told the paper: "Now a lot of places have park motels or cabin-style built accommodation. Some even have backpacker-style accommodation which is popular with school groups."
Backpacker hostels accounted for over 15 per cent of guest nights in New Zealand during 2008, as they continue to prove popular for people on a budget.
Many people prefer the communal atmosphere of hostels, although
online travel insurance might be useful to protect personal possessions.
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