By Brendan Mullens
In order for backpacker operators to maximise their business sales over their competitors, the factors affecting what customers value most when deciding on which place to stay need to be identified.
According to backpackers, here’s a list of the most important factors when deciding on a hostel:
- Affordability of a property – especially for budget-conscious travellers.
- Position within the town/city and public transport accessibility.
- Cleanliness and safety within the hostel.
- Space – common rooms and kitchens need to be spacious enough so guests don’t feel cramped. A bigger space also makes people feel more welcome which promotes meeting different people.
- Fun – things such as guided tours, entertainment, restaurant/bar and other activities can make being within the hostel so much different and provides bonding opportunities with others.
- Customer service – those welcoming guests and working within the hostels can either make or break an experience for travellers and negative experiences will ruin referrals from travellers. The idea of excellent customer service may be simple, but it is often missed by businesses and seldom forgotten by tourists.
- Up-to-date technology methods are excellent benefits for luring guests. Free Wi-Fi and computer usage can be a vital part of guests’ requirements and those who don’t supply it will forfeit the advantage to their competitors.
- Social media is implanted in the business world and customers now rely on reviews displayed by complete strangers on websites. By checking the feedback on a particular hostel, businesses are now often at the mercy of being evaluated on a very public stage.
Do you think this adequately covers the important elements of a hostel’s attractiveness to the backpacker market? If you have had any experiences, let us know.
