New Youth Hostel Opens – Families Feeling the Pinch

Higher cost of living is changing travel behavior

Youth hostels across Germany saw a decline in overnight stays last year. The number fell by 2.8 percent to 8.8 million. The explanation given was that the effects of austerity measures were being felt particularly by families.

In contrast, youth hostels in Saxony reported an increase. 368,200 overnight stays represented a 1.9 percent increase compared to 2024. According to the state association, this was due in part to renovations at individual youth hostels as well as new “experience-oriented” offerings.

So far this year, the number of overnight stays remains below last year’s level, spokesperson Lisa Bachmann reported. “However, important booking periods are still ahead, including the fall break, the Advent season, and the New Year. We expect numerous last-minute bookings here, especially from families and individual guests.”

Economic uncertainty and rising living costs are having an impact on travel behavior. “Families and groups alike are paying closer attention to costs and weighing more carefully where they spend their money. We’re seeing that people are tending to cut back on additional trips—such as those during the off-season—and that families are focusing more on their main vacation,” Bachmann explained.