After more than 18 months of lockdown, Gen Z travellers are desperate to get out of their home towns and explore local settings as well as international destinations. Furthermore, they’re keen to enmesh themselves in new cultures and spend quality time with friends and family. In order to press go on their long-awaited and long-delayed itineraries, they’re very willing to get vaccinated.

Several new apps and loyalty programmes that support and lubricate the travel booking and planning process are making it easier for Gen Zers to arrange trips on a tight budget, in collaboration with friends, and with as much flexibility as possible. Meanwhile, this #travel-hungry generation is increasingly turning to social media for helpful tips and inspiration.

As predicted for the wider travel market in 10 Traveller Priorities for 2021, outdoor adventures – including hiking, kayaking and camping – will continue to be a big draw for Gen Z in 2022 as they valorise time spent in nature. Meanwhile, these young travellers are also looking to further hone their lockdown skills and hobbies during their travels.

Gen Z is the most responsible travel cohort, with 69% globally saying they want to be more environmentally and socially responsible during future trips (IHG, 2021). Youth-focused travel brands are responding to this demand by providing full transparency around their environmental impact and prioritising sustainable modes of transport.

While business travel remains largely on hold for many individuals as travel restrictions prevail, Gen Zers are keen to kick-start its return. However, this new generation of agile workers are demanding more autonomy and flexibility along with feeling assured they are safe and secure. See The State of Business Travel for more on this topic.