Hostelbookers claims to out-price rivals

Hostelbookers has launched a campaign claiming it offers prices an average 5% cheaper than rivals, following research into the budget accommodation market.

HostelBookers has launched a campaign claiming it offers prices an average 5% cheaper than rivals, following research into the budget accommodation market.

The budget bed specialist commissioned a study by Reed Business Insight which suggested HostelBookers’ prices are 5.1% cheaper than those of rival companies. The study compared 908 hostels in 48 destinations and concluded HostelBookers is cheaper in 90% of cases. For five of the sample properties, HostelBookers’ rates were more than 50% cheaper.

HostelBookers chief operating officer David Smith said: “We have worked hard on price, and to compete in this market you have to stand apart. We don’t charge additional fees.”

However, a spokesperson for rival HostelWorld said: “We have no input into hostel pricing policies. Pricing is an issue solely for hostel owners and managers, the majority of whom maintain price parity across all distribution channels.

“Our key focus is ensuring travellers have the best experience on our site by offering them more than double the number of properties and almost three times the choice of destinations of any other online provider.”