Travel is no longer just about ticking destinations off a map. For many, it has become a reflection of identity and values. Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, have turned travel into a carefully curated lifestyle, blending Instagram-worthy escapes with mindful budgeting. Gen Z, born between 1997 and 2012, takes this further, viewing travel as a form of self-expression driven by spontaneity, adventure, and connectivity.
Though both generations share a love for travel, their choices reveal clear differences. Millennials carefully weigh experiences against budgets, splurging selectively for memorable trips. Gen Z, on the other hand, is more willing to spend freely for novelty and thrill. Booking.com notes that these generational contrasts are shaping India's travel culture in new ways.
Key Travel Trends for Indian Millennials and Gen Z in 2025
1. Willingness to Pay for Travel Companions
Both Millennials and Gen Z like to include loved ones in their travel plans, whether it is friends, partners, or family. Generosity and shared experiences play a significant role in trip planning.
- Willing to pay for loved ones' trips: Millennials 89%, Gen Z 88%
- Covering friends' holidays: Gen Z 83%, Millennials 75%, Gen X 58%
- Parents funding family vacations (fully or partially): Gen Z parents 92%, Millennials 84%, Gen X 71%, Baby Boomers 66%
2. Splurging or Budgeting on Travel
Both generations are passionate about travel, but their approach to spending differs. Gen Z tends to increase travel budgets, whereas Millennials strike a balance between indulgence and mindfulness.
- Planning to spend more on travel this year: Gen Z 89%, Millennials 42%
- Willing to splurge for unforgettable holidays: Millennials 65%, Gen Z 57%
- Travel is a priority while budgeting carefully: Millennials 88%, Gen Z 82%
- Preference for multiple short trips vs one long trip: Millennials 77%, Gen Z 70%
3. Travel Motivations
Solo trips are growing in popularity across generations, but motivations differ. Gen Z is drawn to adventure and food, while Millennials focus on culture and cuisine.
- Planning solo trips to relax and recharge: Gen Z 68%, Millennials 65%
- Top motivations for Gen Z: Adventure 46%, Food experiences 45%
- Top motivations for Millennials: Cuisine 50%, Cultural immersion 48%, Adventure 48%
4. Priorities When Choosing Destinations
Safety, value, and weather matter to both groups when selecting destinations. Millennials, however, consistently rate these factors slightly higher.
- Safety as a top priority: Millennials 72%, Gen Z 66%
Other important factors:
- Value for money: Millennials 66%, Gen Z 61%
- Good weather: Millennials 64%, Gen Z 61%
Key Takeaways
- Both Millennials and Gen Z value shared experiences and personal connections while travelling.
- Gen Z shows a greater willingness to spend upfront, prioritising novelty and thrill.
- Millennials focus on memorable experiences while balancing budgets.
- Solo travel, food adventures, and cultural immersion continue to shape travel plans for both groups.
- Safety, affordability, and comfort remain essential, showing that despite generational differences, their wanderlust aligns closely.
