Decoding the Gen Z Traveller: From AI Planning to Prioritising Value for Money

Gen Z is embracing technology at every step of their trip - whether it’s trusting AI to plan their itinerary pre-travel, looking for tech amenities and services in accommodation during their stay, or using technology as a means to keep vacation memories alive after their trip.

· 68% of Indian Gen Z are very comfortable deepening their relationship with technology to create unforgettable travel experiences.

· 68% would trust AI to recommend places that are less ‘touristy’ and more ‘off the beaten track’ destinations.

· 73% would use an AI trip planner to plan an itinerary for a trip.

· 76% of Gen Z look for technology amenities and services such as robotic services or AI-enabled touchpoints in an accommodation.

· 35% of Gen Z look back over photos taken on the trip to bring that “vacation feeling” back.

Indian Gen Z is open to solo travel with nearly two-thirds (65%) having traveled on their own in the last six months and 85% planning to travel solo in the next year, but still embrace group travel either with family/ friends. They also see family/friends as trusted advisors as well as glean inspiration from their social media pages.

· 69% of Gen Z are likely to travel with family members and 61% are likely to travel with their parents.

· 77% of Gen Z were inspired by friends/family on social media for travel in 2023.

· 50% of Indian Gen Z take advice from friends/family to gather ideas and inspiration for travel.

While travel is life for Gen Z, these new-age travelers prioritise value for money by traveling outside the peak season and consider unique once-in-a-lifetime experiences during their trip.

· In 2024, 62% of Indian Gen Z are likely to take a short domestic trip (1-4 nights).

· A good value for money is an important destination factor for 51% of these Gen Z travellers.

· When it comes to vacations and finances, 71% of Indian Gen Z travellers opt to travel during off-peak season to save money.

· 73% look for travel discounts through loyalty programs to save as much as possible.

· Thinking about the travel budget for 2024, 72% of Gen Z want to experience one-of-a-kind destination experiences such as skydiving and hot air ballooning.

It could be argued that Indian Gen Z are creatures of habit with nearly 70% admitting to going back to an accommodation that they enjoyed and 66% looking to stay at hotels that provide reliability. This generation looks for seamless and convenient travel booking experiences to make multiple bookings simultaneously.

· 37% of Indian Gen Z are most likely to book their attractions and activities at the same time as the accommodation.

· 63% are likely to book their flights before booking their accommodation.

· When it comes to ticketed events though, Gen Z are most likely to book them before booking the accommodation (39%).

Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives, and Indonesia at Booking.com said, "With 65% of India’s population under the age of 35 years, it is crucial to understand the travel sentiment of the Gen Z travellers as they redefine the way we experience the world. Their eagerness for unique and immersive experiences and tech prowess while prioritising value for money is driving the demand for innovative technology-based travel solutions and experiential travel. At Booking.com, we are committed to making it easier for all travellers including Gen Z to explore the world in the palm of their hand by providing flights, rental cars, attractions, and of course unique places to stay all on one platform.”