According to the Global Travel Trends Report 2025, travel habits are becoming increasingly conscious, especially among Millenials and Generation Z. People want not only to travel, but also to have real experiences while making the most of their financial opportunities.
According to the survey, 77% of respondents plan to travel more or at least as much internationally as last year, while 74% plan to travel more domestically. The demand for experiences continues to grow, with 60% of travellers planning a trip around an event such as a festival or sporting event, and more and more people considering travel itself as part of the experience. 70% of Millenials and Gen Z are consciously choosing a form of travel where the journey itself is special, such as a luxury train or cruise.
Financial awareness is also increasingly important. People are trying to get the most out of their trips through credit card rewards and loyalty schemes. 66% of those surveyed say combining loyalty points is the best way to optimise their travel spend, and 50% plan to book accommodation or flights this year using only points they have earned.
Travellers are also more conscious about their purchases, increasingly looking for handmade, authentic local products rather than traditional souvenirs. 82% of Millenials and Z are buying unique items that remind them of their trip and that they are happy to share with family and friends. Over half of those surveyed specifically choose destinations where they can find premium quality, locally handcrafted products. The most popular shopping categories are: fashion (58%), beauty (46%) and home furnishings (43%).
Family travel is also changing: multi-generational holidays are becoming increasingly popular, with everyone from grandparents to the youngest travelling together. 58% of Millenial and Gen Z parents plan to take their extended family on holiday in 2025, compared to just 31% of older generations. 72% are even willing to take their children out of school to travel at a lower price in the off-season. In addition, more and more parents are involving their children in planning their trip: 68% of Millenials and Gen Z parents say their children actively help them choose destinations and activities.
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in planning and delivering trips. 80% of travellers use travel planning apps or social media to gather inspiration, while 66% download relevant apps before they leave. Millenials and Gen Z are particularly open to using AI: 83% say AI is a great help in travel planning, whether it’s for programme recommendations (40%), budgeting (36%) or translation assistance (33%).
Overall, by 2025, travel will no longer be a leisure activity, but a consciously planned experience where travellers make the most of their opportunities, support local communities and take advantage of technology (Amex).