Cheap travel insurance should be a priority for any backpackers planning to cut costs by staying in hostels while overseas.
The Cassowary Coast Regional Council in the Australian town of Innisfail, Queensland, has criticised a lack of adequate fire safety standards at several local hostels after a series of complaints. Nearly a dozen reviews were carried out by the authority and many hostels were found to have overcrowded dormitories.
Geoff Wilson, environmental health manager for the council, told abc.net.au: "[We have found] exposed wiring, overloaded sockets, a lack of smoke alarms and in one particular case we have polystyrene insulation being used in ceiling and floors."
Australians are still haunted by the infamous Childers hostel fire eight years ago which killed 15 people.
Backpackers are urged to insure that the accommodation they choose while on their travels has a good reputation and meets the highest safety standards.
Cheap travel insurance is recommended for all travellers.
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