People planning visits to popular hostels around the world have the option of buying
cheap travel insurance before they leave home.
Although traditionally appealing primarily to budget travellers and backpackers, hostels now have a trendier image and are attracting a wider demographic of visitors, according to Hostelling International.
Johan Kruger, head of PR and communications at the organisation, said that many travellers are also taking the opportunity to meet likeminded people, while many hostels offer self-catering facilities that can help those on a budget.
Mr Kruger said: "Hostels have changed and become trendier in a way - their service level has increased. In the past, hostels were more about big dorms for school groups sharing."
He added that giving people the option of staying in a private room or offering family accommodation is encouraging more people to stay in hostels.
All hostel visitors have the option of buying
worldwide travel insurance before leaving home.
To help boost the appeal of hostel visits, rooms in top European cities are currently available for just five pence a night through Hostelbookers.
Downunder - the market leaders in online
backpacker travel insurance.
