Perhaps it's a shared fear or mistrust of climate change in the corporate world, but Gen Z isn't waiting to see the world. They are taking things by storm right now and are traveling in a much different way than other generations.
This is how Gen Z will travel in 2024
In fact, more than half of Gen Z adults are already considered frequent travelers. “Millennials led the way and created this kind of idea that travel is a right, not a privilege,” said travel analyst Lindsey Roschke, adding that Gen Z He added that he continues to prioritize travel over roads. While other generations are more likely to wait until they have a certain income to spend on travel, 61% of Gen Z travelers have an annual income of less than USD 50,000 (Rs 4,151,150), according to a study by Bankrate. be.
Gen Z is notoriously skeptical, with many hesitant to trust the long-term promise that comes with traditional careers. “None of us are guaranteed a job or job security,” says travel influencer Raimy Iacofono. With traveling easier than ever, many Gen Zers prefer to start traveling as soon as possible.
Gen Z travelers have different priorities than older generations
Traditionally, cost has been the deciding factor for first-time travelers, but many of today's young explorers are booking based on their values. Gen Z is more likely to investigate how a company treats its employees and its approach to sustainability, and these considerations influence their purchasing decisions.
“You can't earn brownie points with Gen Z,” Roschke said. Gen Z travelers believe that ethical practices are the bare minimum when it comes to the companies they support.
Travel influencer Kayleigh King says of traveling to Southeast Asia, “People are more aware and there will be conversations about animal exploitation.” Travelers are more open about how they can support more ethical businesses, and Gen Z travelers are also more likely to point out which businesses still need approval.
Additionally, this generation is more likely to prioritize adventure, mental health benefits, and cultural experiences. This attitude makes you more likely to visit places you've never been before or travel for extended periods of time. Some of this is age-specific rather than generation-specific, but it solidifies travel as an outlet for these young people to connect with nature, other cultures, and themselves.
Where will Gen Z travel next?
According to travel app Hopper, Gen Z and Millennial travelers will check prices to destinations in Asia 50% more often in 2023 than they did pre-COVID-19. Kiwi Report and travel agency Contiki also named Thailand as one of the most popular destinations for Gen Z travelers in 2023. Thailand is a typical starting point for travelers embarking on a Southeast Asia tour, and along with Vietnam, it has become a popular destination on social media. Philippines and other Southeast Asian destinations.
Southeast Asia ticks all the boxes for the typical Gen Z. First of all, it's much cheaper than other popular destinations. Kayli says: “The quality and variety of nature and scenery you can find at this price point is honestly second to none.”
There are also some notable “Instagrammable” rites of passages such as Ha Giang Loop, Koh Phangan Full Moon Party, and Komodo Tour.
Southeast Asia's value and beauty are well known for making it popular with young travelers and backpackers, but it's also the culture shock that appeals to Gen Z. “Southeast Asia is a place that changes your brain chemistry,” says Limie.
Gen Z's growing share of the travel market continues to positively impact the way the travel market operates in many ways. It forces us to recognize our privilege as travelers, reevaluate the institutions that support us, and enjoy traveling for travel's sake.
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All currency conversions were made at the time of writing.
(Feature image credit: Prime Images/Getty Images)
This article first appeared on travelandleisure.com.
Related: Where to eat, sleep, and pose: Explore Hong Kong with a Gen Z-approved itinerary
