American Express Travel’s 2025 Global Travel Trends report is here! Rooted in global survey data, the report is your inside look at what is driving booking decisions right now.
The data – shared more in depth below – highlights generational differences of how Millennials and Gen Z consumers are planning 2025 travel and how they are prioritizing spend, compared to their Gen X and Baby Boomers counterparts.
Here’s a snapshot of the four themes that are rising to the top for travelers this year:
Memorable Mementos: Travelers are redefining souvenirs and curating tangible ways to remember their destinations long after they’ve returned.
82% of Millennials and Gen Z surveyed look for one-of-a-kind goods that will remind them of their trip, so they have a story to share with friends and family (compared to 68% of Gen X and Baby Boomers)
Fam Adventures: From Millennial/Gen Z-aged parents letting their kids take the lead on planning, to bringing extended family along – multi-generation vacations are becoming increasingly popular.
81% of global respondents prefer destinations that are family-centric and have activities for all generations surveyed
Benefit Aficionados: Travelers are becoming savvier by maximizing credit card rewards and taking advantage of combining loyalty programs, benefits and points to get the most out of their spending.
61% of Millennials and Gen Z surveyed use their credit card to maximize travel rewards, compared to 36% of Gen X and Baby Boomers
Tap In, Take Off: Travelers are relying on new technology to make their journey smoother and more personalized.
83% of Millennials and Gen Z surveyed found at least one aspect of this new technology to be useful for booking, compared to 64% of Gen X and Baby Boomers
Overall, the report uncovered that travelers across the globe are approaching trips with a mix of passion and practicality. 77% of global respondents plan on going on more or the same number of international trips compared to last year, and 70% of Millennials and Gen Z surveyed like to plan trips that focus on enjoying the journey as much as the destination (e.g. Luxury Rail, Cruise, etc.).
Click here to read the full report!
Consumer TrendsMarkets & Performance
