Summarize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs Generation Z is seeking a more intentional and authentic approach to exploring the world this year.Younger generations are driving a rising interest in travel. Gen Z, those born roughly between 1997 and 2012, as well as millennials, those born roughly between 1981 and 1996, were reported to have taken nearly five trips, on average, in 2023, according to a survey by McKinsey published in May 2024.Newsweek spoke to experts who unpacked several travel habits associated with Gen Z that are on their way in 2025.
A stock image of a backpacker wearing one rucksack over her chest, with another on her back, while standing on the platform of a train station.
A stock image of a backpacker wearing one rucksack over her chest, with another on her back, while standing on the platform of a train station.
iStock / Getty Images Plus
The ‘FOMO’ MindsetGen Z travelers are moving away from the millennial “fear of missing out” (FOMO) view, favoring a more deliberate approach to seeing the world.”Gen Z travelers are leading the way in a shift away from the millennial FOMO mindset when it comes to travel destinations,” Matthew Fox, the CEO of LateRooms.com, told Newsweek. “Instead, they are embracing an altogether more JOMO—the joy of missing out—approach to travel. They’re not interested in the big bucket-list destinations, such as Santorini and Bali,” he said.Christina Bennett, a travel expert at Priceline, agreed, telling Newsweek that Gen Z is embracing slower travel, noting that “2025 is the year of intentional travel.”Bennett explained that Gen Z has moved far beyond “revenge travel”—traveling to make up for time lost from the restrictions in place during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic—and “now wants a slower pace when traveling.”Over-Tourism and Instagram-Worthy SpotsThe days of seeking out spots to get an iconic shot to post on Instagram appear numbered as Gen Z prioritizes meaningful experiences over photo opportunities.”Gen Z’s obsession with ‘Instagram-able’ travel spots might start to fade in 2025. For a while, it’s been all about finding that perfect place to snap a photo for Instagram, but now there’s a real shift happening,” Echo Wang, the CEO and cofounder of Cool Travel Vibes, told Newsweek. “Gen Zs are starting to care less about those popular, crowded tourist destinations and more about the real, down-to-earth experiences,” Wang noted.Beyond aesthetics, Gen Z travelers are conscious of the impact of over-tourism. “Often themselves the victims of a housing crisis at home, Gen Z travelers are aware of the impact of over-tourism on locals and the pressure this can put on housing and infrastructure,” Fox noted.”They are more likely to avoid locations that have been well-trodden and instead want to spend their time and money in less well-known and more laid-back destinations,” he said.’Old-School’ BackpackingMaddi Bourgerie, a travel expert at RVshare, told Newsweek that “old-school solo backpacking,” once a hallmark of independent travel, are also declining in popularity.”Solo backpacking trips where travelers just wandered from hostel to hostel may be in the rearview for many,” Bourgerie explained. “Gen Z, while still open to solo travel, prefers more structured experiences with the rise of remote work and the demand for more security and convenience,” she noted.Solo ExperiencesGen Z travelers are seeking more in-person connections. According to Bennett, “Gen Z is emerging from behind their technology and is now more likely to seek communal spaces–think hotel bars and cruises—in hopes of sparking a connection or even a new romance, especially when traveling solo.”Bennett highlighted a “flocking” trend—a move toward more in-person connections—among Gen Z travelers, noting that Priceline’s 2025 travel trends report shows that Gen Z is 74 percent more likely than the average traveler to have researched the best destinations for meeting new people.Luxury Hotel StaysWhile luxury accommodations still hold some appeal, Gen Z travelers are more inclined toward unique and authentic lodging options.”While Gen Z still is open to luxury, they are generally less interested in expensive and lavish hotels,” Bourgerie said. “They are more likely to invest in unique, local, and authentic experiences like boutique hotels, hostels with unique features, or even Airbnb-style accommodations.”Party-ChasingParty-centric travel is another trend that is on its way out. Bourgerie noted that “partying, drinking and clubbing is a no-go” for many Gen Z travelers.”Less and less Gen Z are staying out late while on the go, with many choosing a healthier vacation when choosing to take time to recharge their batteries,” she said.Do you have a travel-related story or tips to share? Let us know via life@newsweek.com and your story could be featured on Newsweek.
