GEN Z travellers transform global tourism

Gen Z is quickly becoming one of the most influential forces in global travel, not just as consumers, but also as culture shapers. With a focus on meaningful experiences, digital convenience, and socially conscious choices, this generation is redefining what it means to explore the world.

- PALAK CHAWLA

In a rapidly evolving travel landscape, one generation is rewriting the rules of exploration, the Gen Z. Born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, these digital natives are not just a new consumer demographic, they are a cultural force reshaping how, why and where people travel.

The global trend is also fully visible in India and from Southeast Asia's surf towns to Europe's cultural capitals, Gen Z travellers are curating journeys that prioritise purpose, connection and creativity over traditional luxury or predictability.

Today, Gen Z accounts for a growing share of travel industry revenue globally. According to Hilton 2025 Trends Report, in India, nearly 93 pc of Gen Z and Gen Alpha respondents reportedly influence or directly plan family travel.

Moreover, nearly 80 pc of Indian Gen Z youth aspire to take their first solo international trip with their own earnings, a striking indicator of both financial independence and a shift in cultural norms around youth mobility, says another survey by Skyscanner, a global travel search engine.

A new travel identity: From luxury to meaning

Unlike previous generations that often pursue escapism or indulgence, Gen Z approaches travel as a form of identity expression. Their trips are deeply rooted in storytelling, with experiences that feel meaningful, immersive and distinct.

“I am drawn to places that have a mix of culture and history. For me, travel is not just about ticking off destinations, it is about the experiences and stories you collect along the way,” Chhavi Manchanda, a teacher working in Spain and an avid traveller, tells India Outbound.

Experience-driven travel dominates their itineraries. Rather than checking off tourist landmarks, they seek out sunrise treks in Bali, homestays in Vietnam, or street-food crawls in Istanbul. Cultural authenticity, community interaction and local knowledge are prized over generic, prepackaged sightseeing tours.