How Many People Go Backpacking Each Year?

By Anna Duncan

Backpacking is a popular activity that travelers of all ages and experience levels partake in. It is an inexpensive way to see the world, as backpackers can often find budget-friendly accommodations and transportation options. The exact number of people who go backpacking each year is difficult to determine, but various data sources suggest that the activity continues to grow in popularity.

The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) regularly surveys the adventure travel industry to better understand the associated trends. According to their most recent survey, adventure travel made up 15.3% of all global travel—a 4.4% increase from 2015—and backpacking was found to be among the top activities for adventure travelers.

More recently, a 2018 survey from Hostelworld found that more than half (54%) of respondents had either gone or were planning on going backpacking within the next year. That’s a significant jump from 2017 when only 40% of respondents reported having plans for a backpacking trip.

It’s also worth noting that Generation Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—are leading the charge when it comes to backpacking trips abroad; 71% of Gen Z respondents said they had gone or were planning on going backpacking at some point in the next year.

Conclusion:

It’s clear that more and more people are embracing backpacking as a cheap and accessible way to explore the world. Although exact figures are difficult to come by, surveys suggest that thousands—if not millions—of people go backpacking each year, with Generation Z leading the charge.