After two years of social and cultural isolation, travel is booming back, with many travelers (especially from European countries with a seemingly strong grasp on the pandemic) keen to be surrounded by new people, cultures, and experiences once more.

It is no surprise that Gen Z (born between 1997 and 2012) and Millennials (born between 1981 and 1996) – those broadly less concerned by Covid-19 – are at the front of the queues back to the airport.

But how can destinations, tour operators and others in the travel industry best tap into the needs and wants of these generations that will shape the future of travel?

AFFORDABLE TRAVEL IS PREFERRED BY GEN Z WHILE MILLENNIALS TRAVEL THE MOST

Gen Z is eager to get back to traveling (nearly two-thirds of Gen Z are planning “revenge travel”) and is planning trips to fulfil their desire to experience art, architecture, cultural events and new experiences (when planning a holiday, 31% of Gen Zs say that it’s important for them to experience a different culture, while 32% say that they are seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience).

However, being a young generation, their spending power is correspondingly limited. While they spend one-fourth (25%) of their budget on flights, monetary concerns hold them back from splurging on expensive accommodation. Though discounts and affordable traveling are appealing to most consumers, it is the main point of consideration for Gen Z when booking holidays. They look for reasonable packages, mostly from online travel websites. For this reason, travel experts have found that discounts and flexible options would encourage Gen Z to travel.

Separately, Millennials are driving growth in the industry as they are the ones who travel the most, with an average of 35 days of holiday per year. This generation does not mind spending extra if that translates to unique, authentic, and cultural travel experiences, preferring exotic and meaningful experiences instead of well-trodden destinations. Tourism packages that include various activities and cultural events are likely to engage this audience.

SUSTAINABILITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION ARE ON THE RISE

Millennials and Gen Z are highly conscious about the environment – and plan to preserve it while traveling. In fact, two-thirds (67%) of Gen Z travelers consider sustainable travel options.

Alongside sustainability, diversity and inclusion are critical for this generation’s choice of travel destinations, according to Expedia Group.

Research from Orbitz reveals that Gen Z is looking for companies that offer value through diversity and inclusion and are likely to research a destination that matches these ideals. Brands should be able to provide a safe and welcoming environment for LGBTQ+ travelers and facilitate a dialogue on representation to attract the Gen Z audience. There are opportunities for travel industry companies that demonstrate their commitments to inclusivity and sustainability, expanding their offerings to travelers of all ages and backgrounds.

GEN Z & MILLENNIALS: HOW TO REACH THEM?

Unsurprisingly, Gen Z is heavily influenced by social media. When booking a holiday, their planning and inspiration come from social networks. This generation is more flexible when choosing a brand and can rapidly switch to companies providing better services. They listen to their loved one’s opinions and carefully look at reviews when selecting a service.

Gen Z is also highly likely to consult YouTube when making a purchase and 87% of them noted that TikTok is their favourite social media platform. Therefore, creating and promoting video content, will attract these generations’ attention. Gen Z in particular is interested in gaining a learning experience during their travels. According to Canvas8, travelling mindfully is greatly important to Gen Z as they value the importance of their impact on the world.

Millennials are attracted to incentives and promotions and are willing to share their personal details in order to receive these advantages. Contrary to Gen Z, Millennials tend to be loyal to the brands they appreciate and are less likely to try new ones. This generation is more likely to be persuaded by influencers’ media content, they value personalization and prefer travel focused on comfort, lifestyle, and cultural experiences.

And when it comes to booking, Millennials and Gen Z are frequent mobile users and digital content consumers who prefer to use online travel agencies compared to more traditional travel booking methods. The travel industry’s focus should be on enhancing the digital booking experience, allowing travelers to save time and cater for different holiday styles that destinations can provide. Local experiences and cultural activities should be promoted in line with consumers’ interests.

THE FUTURE OF TRAVEL

The travel industry has had to undertake rapid transitions as a result of these generations’ impact on the topic. Will Gen Z keep hold true to its values? Or will they become more disconnected from their ideals? Will the world of constant transformation change their travel views?

Similarly, it is clear that Millennials are driven by cultural experiences when travelling. However, will they be open to adapting their fixed preferences and evolve to embrace new travel opportunities?

Learn more about FINN Partners’ Global Intelligence capabilities and expertise.

About FINN Partners, Inc.

Founded in 2011 on the core principles of innovation and collaborative partnership, FINN Partners has more than quadrupled in size in eight years, becoming one of the fastest growing independent public relations agencies in the world. The full-service marketing and communications company's record setting pace is a result of organic growth and integrating new companies and new people into the FINN world through a common philosophy. With almost 800 professionals, FINN provides clients with global access and capabilities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. In addition, FINN provides its clients with access to top tier agencies around the world through its membership in the global network PROI. Headquartered in New York, FINN's other offices are located in Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Hong Kong, Fort Lauderdale, Frankfurt, Jerusalem, London, Los Angeles, Munich, Nashville, Orange County, Paris, Portland, San Francisco, Seattle, Shanghai, Singapore and Washington D.C. Find us at finnpartners.com and follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @finnpartners.

www.finnpartners.com