Generation Z, also called “Gen Z” (born between 1997 and 2012), is changing the way people travel, especially when it comes to staying in hostels. As digital natives, Gen Z travelers are known for their love of authentic experiences, exploring on their own, and embracing different cultures. Gen Z travelers care about traveling responsibly. They choose eco-friendly places to stay and like to do things that benefit local communities, and the environment. Here’s a quick look at how Gen Z is booking hostels in 2024.
1. Looking for Special Experiences
Gen Z travelers love unique and immersive experiences. They’re drawn to hostels with themed rooms and local cultural events. For example, Alex, a 21-year-old backpacker, stayed at a hostel in Tokyo that had rooms designed like traditional Japanese tea houses. Not only did he love the unique vibe, but he also joined a sushi-making class organized by the hostel, which gave him a taste of local culture.
Another traveler, Mia, chose a hostel in Barcelona known for its rooftop flamenco nights. She enjoyed the music and dancing and made friends with other travelers who were just as excited about the experience.
2. The Impact of Social Media on Gen Z's Travel Plans
Social media has a big impact on how Gen Z chooses where to travel. For many young travelers, scrolling through Instagram or TikTok helps them decide where to go and what to do. Hostels have caught on to this, using these platforms to show off their unique decor, fun events, and cool vibes.
Take Jake, for example. He was browsing TikTok when he stumbled upon a video of a hostel with vibrant decor and lively social events in Germany. It looked so fun that he decided to book a stay, and when he got there, it was just as awesome as it seemed online.
3. Personalized Experiences: How Hostels Are Winning Over Gen Z
Gen Z travelers crave personalized experiences, and hostels are stepping up. Many now offer mobile check-ins and curated local activities tailored to guests' interests. Lisa, a frequent hostel-goer, loved how her hostel in Amsterdam arranged a food tour that matched her tastes perfectly. She’s not alone, 73% of Gen Z travelers prefer booking through mobile apps, finding places that suit their style. Another traveler, Mike, enjoyed a hostel-organized sunrise hike that fit his love for adventure. These small, thoughtful touches are turning hostels into hubs of unique and memorable experiences.
4. Going Green in Travel
Building on their focus on ethical travel, Gen Z also prioritizes sustainability. They prefer eco-friendly destinations and accomodations that reduce waste and use renewable energy. Sarah, a 23-year-old traveler recently planned a trip to Costa Rica, drawn by its commitment to sustainability and natural beauty. For Sarah, this trip wasn’t just about seeing new places, it was about making a positive impact and experiencing the local culture in a meaningful, sustainable way. Gen Z travelers often choose greener transportation options like trains, buses, and even walking or biking.
5. Digital Detox
Even though Gen Z is always connected to their devices, there’s a growing number of them who are looking to unplug and take a break from the constant screen time. That’s why some hostels are creating “no Wi-Fi” zones or encouraging guests to disconnect for a while, offering cool offline activities instead. It’s all about finding balance and really being present during their travels.
Take Ben, for instance. He stayed at a hostel in the mountains of Italy that didn’t have Wi-Fi in the common areas. At first, he was worried he’d be bored without his phone, but he ended up loving it. The hostel offered activities like hiking and stargazing, and Ben said it was refreshing to have real conversations with other travelers without the distraction of social media.
Then there’s solo traveler Emily, who visited a hostel in Thailand that promoted digital detox afternoons. For a few hours each day, they turned off the Wi-Fi and hosted things like yoga sessions, board games, and cooking classes. Emily found it surprisingly relaxing to be offline and focus on the moment. She even made some new friends during a cooking class where they learned to make traditional Thai dishes together.
6. Gen Z's Love for Inclusive and Welcoming Hostels
Gen Z is all about diversity and inclusion. They want to stay in places where everyone feels welcome, no matter their background, gender, or identity. That’s why hostels that embrace these values are super popular with them. These travelers are looking for more than just a bed they want a place that celebrates different cultures, promotes respect, and makes everyone feel at home.
For example, backpacker Jess, who stayed at a hostel in Berlin that was known for being inclusive. The hostel had gender-neutral bathrooms and hosted events like international potluck dinners, where guests could share dishes from their home countries. Jess loved how open and accepting everyone was, and she ended up making friends from all over the world. She said it felt like a community where everyone was celebrated for who they are.
Gen Z is redefining the hostel experience through their demand for unique offerings, reliance on social media, desire for personalization, and commitment to sustainability. As this generation continues to grow in influence, hostels must adapt to meet their evolving expectations, ensuring a bright future for the industry.
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