2025 Travel Trends: How Gen Z is Redefining Exploration and Adventure

Photo by Radek Skrzypczak on Unsplash

Introduction: The Gen Z Travel Revolution

Generation Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, is rapidly emerging as the most influential cohort in the travel industry. Their unique values, digital fluency, and demand for authenticity are transforming every aspect of travel-from planning and booking to the experiences they seek and share. As we move through 2025, understanding the travel trends driven by Gen Z is essential for travelers, businesses, and anyone looking to tap into the evolving world of exploration [1] .

The Rise of Value-Driven and Budget-Friendly Experiences

Gen Z places a high value on affordability without sacrificing meaningful experiences. Over 82% of Gen Z travelers prioritize budget-friendly options, opting for hostels, home rentals, or unique local stays instead of traditional luxury hotels. This approach is about maximizing value-spending less on accommodation to allocate more resources to immersive activities like hiking, cultural tours, and adventure sports [1] . For example, many young travelers use popular booking platforms to compare prices, read verified reviews, and find hidden gems recommended by other explorers.

To access affordable travel, consider these strategies:

Book in advance using reputable travel sites to secure the best rates.
Seek out hostels or guesthouses with strong user ratings for safety and authenticity.
Use flight comparison tools or apps to track airfare price drops.
Leverage student and youth travel discounts-many airlines and rail systems offer special fares with valid ID.

Travelers can also search for local tourism boards or official city websites, which often list budget-friendly experiences, events, and accommodation options. For up-to-date deals, search for the destination’s official tourism website and check their “Special Offers” or “Deals” sections.

Sustainability and Responsible Tourism: A Core Value

Sustainability is not just a buzzword for Gen Z-it is a key decision driver. Over 56% of Gen Z travelers actively choose destinations and companies with strong environmental practices, such as carbon-neutral accommodations, wildlife conservation initiatives, and plastic-free tourism [1] . About 23% are willing to pay a carbon offset fee when booking air travel, reflecting a genuine commitment to reducing their environmental impact [4] .

To support responsible tourism:

Research eco-certified hotels and tour operators-look for global certifications like Green Globe or EarthCheck.
Consider alternative transportation, such as trains or buses, which have a lower carbon footprint than flights.
Support local businesses and artisans by purchasing directly from them instead of from mass-market souvenir shops.
Volunteer with reputable organizations that offer community or conservation-based travel experiences.

If you want to find sustainable travel options, search for “eco-friendly travel [destination]” or visit the official tourism board for a city or country, which often highlights green initiatives and responsible travel partners.

Digital Inspiration: The Power of Social Media and Influencers

Gen Z’s travel planning is deeply influenced by social media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube. They spend an average of 2 hours and 43 minutes daily on these platforms, using them for inspiration, booking ideas, and sharing their journeys. Notably, 84% of Gen Z travelers report using social media to discover destinations, and campaigns like “Inspired by Iceland” have shown the power of digital storytelling to drive real-world travel trends [1] .

For those seeking inspiration:

Follow reputable travel influencers who provide honest reviews and destination guides.
Use hashtags such as #GenZTravel, #HiddenGems, or #SustainableTravel to discover trending spots.
Check official tourism accounts for up-to-date advisories and recommendations.

Tourism businesses can benefit by creating engaging, shareable content and partnering with influencers who align with Gen Z’s values. If you want to collaborate or learn more, visit the verified social media page of the destination or company and look for their “Contact Us” or “Partnerships” section.

Adventure, Authenticity, and “Set Jetting”

Adventure travel is booming among Gen Z, with 68% expressing a preference for activities like hiking, scuba diving, and cultural immersion [1] . Set jetting-travel inspired by film and TV locations-is another growing trend, as travelers seek to experience the settings of their favorite shows or movies. Unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations like Iceland, Bali, and lesser-known European towns are highly sought after for their authenticity and Instagrammable appeal [2] .

To plan an adventurous and authentic trip:

Research local experiences, such as food tours, hands-on workshops, or guided hikes, through the official tourism board or certified tour operators.
Look for “destination dupes”-lesser-known alternatives to over-touristed hotspots-that offer similar charm with fewer crowds.
For “set jetting,” check if the destination’s official tourism website has a dedicated section for film locations or pop culture tours.

Some destinations and operators may require advance booking, especially for popular or limited-access experiences. Always verify the legitimacy of operators through user reviews and, when possible, official accreditation.

Embracing Technology: Personalization and Mobile Convenience

Gen Z expects seamless digital experiences, from mobile bookings to AI-powered recommendations. Many use apps for itinerary planning, translation, and navigation, and they prioritize transparency-no hidden fees, instant confirmations, and honest reviews [3] . This generation is also more likely to experiment with new technology, such as virtual tours or augmented reality travel guides, to enrich their planning process.

To leverage technology for smoother travel:

Download official apps for transportation, accommodation, and local attractions.
Use reputable third-party booking platforms with verified user reviews and secure payment systems.
Enable notifications for price drops or itinerary changes.

If you are concerned about privacy, review data-sharing policies on each platform. Look for transparent statements and options to control your personal information. When in doubt, opt for bookings directly through official company websites or apps.

Sustainable Destinations and Experiences: Where Is Gen Z Going?

Several destinations have emerged as Gen Z favorites due to their blend of affordability, adventure, and sustainability. Japan saw a 1,300% surge in bookings among Gen Z travelers between 2019 and 2023, with Kyoto and Tokyo offering both tradition and trendiness [2] . Portugal, Thailand, Bali, and hidden gems like Porto and Brittany are also in high demand for their unique cultural offerings and accessible prices.

For those seeking to visit these destinations:

Search for official city or country tourism websites to find travel advisories, entry requirements, and verified experiences.
Look for local tour operators with sustainability credentials listed on their official pages.
Consider off-season travel for more authentic experiences and lower prices.

Always check for the latest travel restrictions or requirements by visiting the destination’s government or tourism board website before booking.

Practical Steps to Join the Gen Z Travel Movement

If you want to travel like Gen Z, start by clarifying your priorities-adventure, sustainability, culture, or all of the above. Use digital tools and social media to research destinations, compare prices, and read reviews from fellow Gen Z travelers. Remember to:

Set a realistic budget and seek value-driven experiences over luxury.
Choose destinations and businesses committed to environmental responsibility.
Connect with local communities and support ethical tourism initiatives.
Share your journey online to inspire others-and always verify information through official channels or trusted review platforms.

If you need assistance, many official tourism boards offer live chat or support lines. Search for the destination’s official tourism website and look for “Contact Us” or “Visitor Services.”

Conclusion: Gen Z Is Shaping the Future of Travel

The travel preferences of Gen Z are driving a shift towards meaningful, sustainable, and digitally powered exploration. Whether you are a traveler, business owner, or industry professional, adapting to these trends means embracing authenticity, technological innovation, and responsible practices. Use the strategies above to access the experiences and opportunities that define Gen Z’s approach to adventure-and prepare for a future where travel is both transformative and accessible to all.