What
Contiki, The Travel Corporation’s brand for travelers 18-35 years old, surveyed more than 1,200 travelers for its Voice of a Generation survey, which revealed insights about how, when and where millennials and Gen Z want to travel this year.
Why It Matters
According to the survey, these generational groups are eager to travel, and are willing to take various measures in order to do so. With 100% of respondents indicating that they’re dreaming of travel, 63% plan to travel in 2021; 71% say they would get the COVID-19 vaccine in order to travel again; and 58% would travel right now even if they had to pay for quarantine upon returning home. Forty percent of young travelers would even spend a week or so without tech (such as cell phones) if it meant traveling and reconnecting with people.
With risk of cancellation top of mind, those surveyed say they are more incentivized by booking flexibility (74%) and a money-back guarantee (86%) than they are by discounts. And although 41% of respondents want to explore Europe and 11% are dreaming of visiting Asia, domestic travel is by far the most in-demand for this age group, with 77% looking to explore their home this year.
Related: What Will Working Americans' Vacations Look Like in 2021?
Fast Facts
- Among survey respondents, 34% plan to travel between May and September this year, while 25% have a plan to travel but are not sure when.
- When they return to travel, millennials and Gen Z travelers appear to most want unique experiences such as safaris and stargazing (87%), experiencing new cultures and trying new food (66%), exploring the outdoors (62%), having adventures (56%) and wellness activities (46%).
- When asked what they miss the most about travel, 39% of travelers surveyed chose “exploring new destinations,” while 21% picked “experiencing something new.”
What They Are Saying
“There’s nothing more empowering than getting outside of your ‘bubble,’ meeting new people and making new friends,” said Melissa DaSilva, president of Contiki USA, in a press release. “We know most want the opportunity to travel together again with the freedom and flexibility to be social whether traveling solo, with friends or a partner. To experience those magic moments that travel brings and to leave with memories that will stay with them forever, it’s on everyone’s mind.”
The Details
Contiki
www.contiki.com