Millennial generation has turned the Backpacker into the Glampacker, says Holidaysafe.co.uk

• New generation of backpackers want Airbnb, exotic locations and rely on technology as their guides around the world
• In 2013, the average age of backpacker was 25, but in 2016 this has risen to 32 years old
• Toothache, insect bites, and stomach upsets are still top three medical claims – unchanged since the 1960s backpacking travel revolution began

Since the 1960s, there have been major changes in attitudes and habits within the backpacking community. People are travelling more frequently, taking advantage of low cost accommodation and flights, plus using technology for travel advice, bookings and guides to their destination – creating the new ‘glampacker’.

Glampackers are redefining the meaning of international travel, looking for quick meaningful experiences, but, unlike previous generations, they want to experience locations and are older and take shorter trips. According to Holidaysafe.co.uk, the average age of a backpacker in 2013 was 25 years old, but in 2016 this has risen to 32 years old. The average duration of a trip has also dropped, from 217 days in 2013 to only 179 days in 2016. The older traveller is often taking a few months’ off for a sabbatical rather than the traditional image of a student taking a break between their studies.

Today’s glampacker is seeking a broader range of activities and experiences than the traditional backpacker and instead of simply ‘going with the flow’; they gather information before and during the trip via the internet and mobile devices. Glampackers are independent travellers with a high adaption rate and are driven to experience new things.

Amber Howard, Brand Manager of Holidaysafe.co.uk, said: “Backpacking was once the cheap way for the younger generation to explore the world and experience new cultures. Today the glampacker wants to adapt to their environment by pre-planning and using technology to guide their journey and help decide where they stay and what they eat. Traditionally backpackers travelled light, without expensive electronic equipment such as laptops, tablets and mobile phones. However the desire to stay connected has encouraged millennial backpackers to carry a range of electronic gadgets.

“We would always encourage travellers to purchase the correct insurance for their adventure, by thinking what activities they might want to undertake and reading their policy to see they are covered. Travellers should be aware of cover for travel arrangements, sports and adventure activities, theft, loss and damage of gadgets and documents such as passports.”

Click here to view our handy ‘Evolution of the Backpacker’ Infographic.