People planning a stay in a hostel could buy
cheap travel insurance before heading off on their trip.
Bookings for stays in hostels around the world made through budget accommodation website Hostelling International have increased dramatically over the course of the last 12 months.
The website provides access to accommodation in 80 different countries around the world and reported that over 87,000 overnight stays had been arranged in England and Wales alone.
Mikael Hansson, chief executive of Hostelling International, said: "Hostelling International is the only hostel operator offering a global network of hostels with assured standards."
Rising booking numbers suggest that traditional backpackers have not been put off their travels by the global economic downturn, while a wider range of individuals and families may be looking to cut costs by choosing budget accommodation.
Everyone has the option of buying
worldwide travel insurance before they head out on a trip as hostels often have communal environments, leaving backpackers' possessions more exposed to theft and other accidents.
The Fakenham & Wells Times reports that Norfolk hostel Deepdale Backpackers and Camping will get a new management team from February, and biking weeks and writers' workshops will be among its new features.
Going, going, gone. Downunder for
cheap travel insurance.