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If you’ve passed the age of 30, you’ve probably already asked yourself if it’s still a good time to travel in a hostel.
You may be concerned that the backpackers are all at least ten years younger than you.
You wonder:
“Am I too old for this?”
You’re wrong!
Hostels are a popular option for travelers of all ages, including those in their 30s.
Although the term “youth hostel” is still used, these types of accommodations have long been open to everyone.
No matter your age, if you choose to stay in a hostel, you obviously share the same passion for travel and new cultures as the other travelers.
Maybe you need to hear it, so we’ll tell you:
“You’re never too old to travel!”
Whether you have no experience in a hostel or are an experienced backpacker, there are many good reasons to take advantage of your thirties to travel in a hostel.
Find out why this might be the best time in your life to do it!
It helps break the routine and cultivate an open-mind
Staying at a youth hostel gives you the chance to meet people from all over the world. By talking to your fellow travelers, you can learn more about their culture, language, and traditions.
Hostels are often located in trendy neighborhoods or scenic areas.
Whether you’re looking to relax in the wild (like at the Sea Shack Hostel, La Malbaie Hostel, and Griffon Aventure Hostel) or explore vibrant cities (such as Montreal, Quebec City, or Ottawa), youth hostels can offer you a variety of options that suit your travel desires.
You get to travel more often and longer
Hostel rates are much more affordable than hotels and Airbnbs, it can help you save a lot on your travel expenses.
In addition, most hostels have communal kitchens and offer free breakfasts, another way to make sure your wallet doesn’t take a hit!
For accommodation, you get to choose from a range of options that can suit different budgets, from shared rooms to private rooms. Staying in a shared room can save you some serious money.
All these benefits will allow you to spend more on activities or extend the length of your trip.
You can work remotely
If you’re a digital nomad, you can take advantage of the hostel facilities such as high-speed Wi-Fi, power outlets, and cozy coworking spaces to work remotely and pursue your online projects while traveling.
It’s a great way to meet up with other digital nomads and share your work experiences, which can give you new perspectives and inspiration for your future projects.
Hostels are a great option for travelers who want to combine work and pleasure. You’ll be free to enjoy a friendly environment to work efficiently, all while discovering new places and meeting new people.
You probably have more resources than when you were a student
Traveling in a hostel in your 30s allows you more financial freedom, which you may not have had in your 20s. You don’t have to count every penny on your trip.
You can afford to do more activities like paragliding, canyoning or rafting, and they can be costly. However, with a larger travel budget, you can indulge in some thrilling experiences.
You may be able to afford a private room instead of a shared dorm. A private room gives you extra space to rest and recharge after a busy day.
You can avoid the hustle and bustle of the dorms and enjoy a quieter environment. It will give you more privacy, all of this combined with the benefits of staying at a hostel, like the opportunity to meet other travelers.
Some hostels offer rooms with private bathrooms for extra comfort, only at a much lower price than hotels.
You’ll be able to afford better restaurants and discover the local cuisine. With your slightly higher budget, you can enjoy more sophisticated dishes and unique culinary experiences that you might not have been able to afford in the past.
You can share your passions with people as adventuresome as you
When you stay in hotels or Airbnb, your chance to meet and interact with other travelers is minimal, if not non-existent! In contrast, hostels offer you a great opportunity to interact with an international community in a friendly atmosphere. After all, hostels were created so that you can get social! During a trip, you’ll get to hang out with travelers from all over the world and make new discoveries with them.
Whether you’re traveling as a couple, in a group or alone, hostels are a great way to make new friends and expand your social network.
You benefit from the experience and advice of more experienced travelers
By staying at a hostel, you can benefit from the tips and tricks of fellow travelers: hidden gems, off-the-beaten-track itineraries, unique places to eat, and much more.
Travelers often follow similar itineraries, so don’t hesitate to ask people about destinations they’ve visited and if they have any recommendations or things to avoid.
Your travel priorities and interests may have shifted since your 20s
As the years go by, your travel aspirations may change. As a backpacker in your 30s, you may have more specific travel interests such as local food, history or ecotourism.
These interests influence how you plan your trip. If you are a foodie, you can explore local markets and take a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional dishes.
If you’re interested in history, you can visit important historical sites, museums or famous monuments. You can also join guided tours (such as Free Walking Tours) that will give you a deeper insight into the history of the city you’re visiting.
Ecotourism is also becoming increasingly popular among backpackers. If this is your case, you can opt for destinations that value environmental preservation and enjoy eco-friendly activities, such as hiking in national parks.
Pamela MacNaughtan
Arianne Méthot
