Increased Interest in International Travel Among US Travelers and Gen Z
Introduction to Changing Travel Trends
A new report from Tripadvisor, the world’s largest travel guidance platform, reveals a significant resurgence in travel enthusiasm among US travelers, particularly within the Gen Z demographic. As per the 2025 Summer Travel Index, the excitement for the upcoming travel season is palpable, with 63% of respondents expressing their intent to travel.
Key Findings from the Tripadvisor Summer Travel Index
The report indicates that both Gen Z and Millennials are 38% more likely to travel both domestically and internationally compared to older generations like Gen X and Boomers. This trend points to a shift in travel priorities, where younger travelers are keen on exploring the world and embracing diverse experiences.
Top Destinations for 2025 Travel
International Hotspots
The Summer Travel Index not only reflects the favorite vacation spots of the past but highlights emerging trends for 2025. The following international destinations are capturing the attention of US travelers:
- Cancun, Mexico
- Paris, France
- London, United Kingdom
Domestic Favorites
Holding strong in the realm of domestic travel, the anticipated top destinations for summer 2025 include:
- Las Vegas, Nevada
- New York City, New York
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
These findings suggest that the allure of vibrant cities and relaxing beaches continues to dominate American travel plans.
Emerging Trends: Nature and Relaxation
Interestingly, relaxation remains a primary motivation for travel, with 51% of respondents citing it as a key reason for their trips. Among the new trending locations for 2025, areas like Fort Walton Beach, Florida, and Punta Sam, Mexico have gained traction, showcasing a desire for tranquil environments. Additionally, natural destinations such as Big Sur and Moran, Wyoming, reflect a growing inclination towards enjoying the great outdoors, with 38% of travelers seeking experiences in nature.
Prioritizing Experiences
The focus on memorable experiences is another characteristic of modern travel. The report reveals that 83% of travelers prioritize activities within their travel budgets, planning up to five excursions on average. Notably, Gen Z respondents are particularly enthusiastic, with 14% intending to book six or more activities, a stark contrast to the 9% among older age groups.
While older generations tend to prioritize relaxation, the younger cohort shows a preference for adventure and cultural exploration, aligning with their desire for a deeper connection to the places they visit.
Quotes from Experts
According to Hilary Fischer-Groban, Head of Research & Insights at Tripadvisor, "Summer travel is all about making memories with friends, family, and loved ones – and planning those special trips is a highlight of the year for many travelers." She emphasizes the importance of local experiences in creating lasting memories.
The Planning Process
When it comes to planning, a smooth travel experience is crucial. About 57% of travelers reportedly book activities ahead of their vacation, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, who are 78% more likely to reserve activities in advance. While younger travelers lean towards social media for recommendations, older generations prefer local advice, showcasing differing approaches to planning.
Categories of Experience
Several trending experience categories stand out for 2025, including:
- Cultural and themed tours
- Outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, horseback riding)
- Cruises and water tours
Younger respondents demonstrate a preference for vacation rentals over hotels, indicating a shift towards more personalized accommodations.
Methodology Behind the Findings
The information in this report was gathered from two main sources:
- A Tripadvisor Consumer Sentiment Survey conducted from March 26 to April 8, 2025, encompassing over 2,800 consumers across six countries.
- Site behavioral data from Tripadvisor, covering search behaviors for travel spanning June 1 to August 31, 2025.
About Tripadvisor
Tripadvisor continues to lead as a travel guidance platform with more than a billion user-generated reviews. It assists travelers in various stages of their journey, from planning to booking and sharing experiences, highlighting the value of crowd-sourced information in making travel decisions.
This report underscores the vibrant and evolving landscape of travel preferences among US travelers, particularly the influence of younger generations in shaping new travel trends and experiences.