Younger groups of visitors enjoying budget breaks are boosting demand for hostels, according to VisitScotland and Hostelling Scotland.
While hostels are still a favourite for the independent traveller, group bookings across Hostelling Scotland’s locations are up nearly 6% towards the end of 2024, compared to whole of the 2023 season, generating almost 10% in additional income for the charity.
Groups are defined as 10 guests or more and now make up almost a third of all stays, contributing to a rise in occupancy of around 5% so far compared to the whole of 2023, with a total of 264,049 overnights achieved by late 2024.
The biggest growth is from more school and university trips gathering to explore Scotland and supporting the local visitor economy around Hostelling Scotland’s 29 youth hostels and 24 affiliate hostels.
Hostelling Scotland’s CEO, Margo Paterson said: “Hostelling is a great way to see parts of Scotland where accommodation is in short supply or high demand pushes up the price.
“Our customer feedback and reviews highlight that value for money plays a big part in the experience and self-catering can also keep costs lower.
“More groups are discovering we can accommodate them in private rooms or exclusive private hire, while still enjoying the use of communal facilities to gather and socialise.”
Visitor research shows that value for money continues to play a significant part in choosing accommodation and a destination.
Of those UK visitors considering a holiday in Scotland in the next 6 months, 74% will change their accommodation plans because of the impact of the cost-of-living crisis, according to the latest domestic sentiment tracker
VisitScotland’s Senior Marketing Insight Manager, Jacqui Souter, said: “We know from our research that cost is the biggest consideration for many visitors thinking about trip just now. Travelling outside of peak times can save money and a large proportion of those in the UK planning a trip to Scotland in the coming months would choose more affordable accommodation.
“Hostels make an important contribution to driving the visitor economy and growing the impact of tourism. Visitors on a budget can experience hostel locations in villages, towns and cities across the entire country, supporting local jobs and investment.”
Domestic and international visitor groups booking hostels through tour operators have also experienced growth over the last 12 months.
Louise Clark, Hostelling Scotland Reservations and Sales Manager said: “We have worked very hard to grow and nurture our group business over the last number of years. From initial point of contact to post stay follow ups, we pride ourselves in delivering the best possible service and experience for all groups staying with us.
“The purpose driven nature of hostelling accommodation means we’re well placed to accommodate group travel. Our hostel teams have a wealth of knowledge and are always happy to share this with our guests whether it’s the best places to eat for large groups or the best attractions and sightseeing tours in the area.”
Selected destinations are open in winter, bringing visitors to those communities outside of the peak season summer months, to enjoy attractions and experiences in places like Inverness, Aviemore, and Glasgow.
Dundreggan Rewilding Centre - 45 mins from Inverness, visitors can explore Scotland’s ancient Caledonian forest, connect with nature and take part in fun activities and events.
SCOTLAND: The Big Picture offers small-group, multi-day, all-inclusive Rewilding Journeys in the Scottish Highlands, in the company of expert guides and like-minded travellers. Guests will learn about transformational nature recovery projects and meet the inspiring people involved.
Aviemore Ice Rink Groups can enjoy ice skating and curling experiences – both activities can be tailored to group’s requirements.
The Burrell Collection, Glasgow offer groups experiences, including exclusive early-access, evening and behind-the-scenes tours, providing VIP access to thousands of objects not on public display.
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Younger groups of visitors enjoying budget breaks are boosting demand for hostels, according to VisitScotland and Hostelling Scotland.