Why Backpacking in Europe is Getting Pricier – Hostels Raise Rates This Summer

As an experienced traveler who has learned to explore Europe on a budget for over seven years, I find it concerning that hostel fees are significantly more than in previous years. Backpacking across Europe on a tight budget will thus be more of a challenge.

During peak season, a hostel bed in a popular city like London, Paris, Amsterdam, or Barcelona might cost anything from $40 to $60. Less than five years ago, you could get a dorm room for $20–$30 per night. While seasoned travelers are skilled at reducing expenses through strategic planning, first-time budget travelers could be taken aback by the sheer magnitude of the fees involved in organizing a low-budget vacation to Europe.

What’s Causing the Hostel Price Hike?

There are a few key factors driving up the prices:

Increased Tourism Demand Post-Pandemic

Due to pent-up restlessness, travel restrictions were in place for two years, but this summer, there was a tremendous increase in European tourism. The demand for hostels is on the rise, especially in classic backpacker areas, so they may charge more. The pandemic has caused a 12-bed dorm room to become entirely full.

Limited Resources (Time and Money)

Because of this, a lot of hostels had to cut staff and operate at lower capacity in 2020 and 2021. Companies are now struggling to meet the heightened demand because they are not able to quickly recover. Hostels have to increase prices even more because they can’t give good service due to the crowds.

How Operating Expenses Are Affected by Inflation

Hostels are feeling the pinch of inflation, which has increased the price of food and utilities. Passing these higher costs on to travelers will inevitably lead to higher rates. The economic slump hasn’t spared dormitory beds, even if they’re still the most affordable option.

The Power of the US Dollar vs. the Euro

An American’s “affordability” while planning a backpacking trip to Europe is very sensitive to fluctuations in the value of the dollar. The 20-year high of the US dollar against the euro means that your 2022 US dollars won’t buy you nearly as much food, hotel, attractions, etc. This might make a European vacation look more costly than it actually is.

Helpful Hints for Minimizing Your Hostel Spending

Although budget travelers may need to make certain adjustments and sacrifices because of the rising cost of lodging, the underlying appeal of flexible, low-cost travel remains. For those looking for an affordable European vacation, I recommend:

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Take a Break

According to reddit, During the summer and holidays, hostels charge astronomical prices. Consider traveling in May or June, or September or October, which are regarded as shoulder seasons, to enjoy better weather, less crowds, and cheaper rates.

Enjoy Exclusive Savings as a Member

Hostelling International and HostelWorld Rewards are two programs that might help you save 10-15% on your hostel stay. You may easily pay for the membership with the savings from a multi-city tour.

Consider Directly Booking Hostels

Since booking sites add service fees, it’s best to contact the hostel via email to find out their most competitive rate. Additionally, being flexible with dates might lead to deals.

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Apartments and private rooms are options to consider.

If your budget allows it, get a private room and split the cost with a friend or two. One more way to save money on food is to look for an apartment with a kitchenette.

Eat Home-Made Meals

Spend less on food by preparing your own spaghetti, sandwiches, salads, and more in the hostel’s kitchen. Most supermarkets have sales on bread, cheese, and produce.

Affordable Beverages to Enjoy

The more nightclubs and pubs you visit, the faster your budget will be drained. Have a few cheap glasses of house wine or local beer before hitting the town. Many hostels provide complimentary breakfasts.

Choose Vacation Locations That Won’t Break the Bank

Instead of spending a fortune on places like Stockholm, London, and Paris, you may save a lot of money by staying in more affordable towns like Krakow, Berlin, and Prague, where dorm beds cost about $15-25 per night.

Reduce Your Gas Expense by Driving Less

Do not try to squeeze five countries into a two-week vacation; instead, focus on seeing one or two more affordable destinations. Taking a bus or train overnight is a great way to save money on hotels.

The Conclusion

Despite rising prices, Europe is a backpacker’s dream, full with history, adventure, culture, and vitality. With careful preparation, a limited budget, and the selection of less expensive locations at off-peak times, it is still possible to backpack across Europe for $50 per day or less.

The ever-shifting state of the economy is beyond our control. As a seasoned traveler, I find it thrilling to be able to adapt to unforeseen circumstances and adjust my trip strategy to maximize my budget. Visitors visiting Europe who are on a tighter budget but yet want to immerse themselves in the local culture often choose to stay in hostels. If you can find new ways to embrace the hostel vibe, this will be relevant even in the year 2022 and beyond.

You should probably just expect that your search for a cheap dorm accommodation in Amsterdam or a three-dollar spaghetti deal in Italy will end in disappointment. Yet, a small number of intentional