Generation Z holidaymakers are keen to have new, authentic travel experiences in destinations further away from home post-lockdown, according to a survey by Topdeck Travel.
The tour operator’s research showed 18-25 year olds want to get away from their screens and enjoy local cultures, the outdoors and bucket-list experiences.
Visiting a destination that is further away from home came top of the list of future travel plans, with 32% choosing this, restrictions allowing, while 29% want to tick off bucket-list destinations, 26% want to explore nature and the outdoors, and 25% hope to spend time relaxing.
Most of the young travellers surveyed, 93%, were already planning future travel, with 31% saying they felt they did not explore enough of a destination’s nightlife and 30% saying they did not learn enough about local culture and traditions when travelling. Also high on the agenda was to meet fellow travellers, with 28% putting this on their post-lockdown list of travel plans.
They also snubbed social media pictures with cliché captions and ‘popular’ holiday poses or selfie shots of tan lines – all featuring in their pet hates – while 39% said they couldn’t wait to log off from their Zoom calls with 36% happy to have less screen time and less eating in (23%) post-lockdown.
Charles Knowlton, global general manager, Topdeck Travel, said: “It has been a disheartening year for young people , but our findings show they are resilient and are ready to bounce back with new travel experiences.
“Our study has found that Gen Z is fed up with the polished Insta-worthy experiences that we’ve become over-exposed to today.
“Instead, they seek authentic travel experiences that liberate them from the rules of normal life, once travel restrictions are lifted. This includes exploring more of the local cultures, experiencing the nature and wildlife and making friends with fellow travellers.“