Younger generations are changing how travel is valued.

According to the American Express 2025 Global Travel Report, 70 percent of Millennials and Gen Z surveyed prefer trips that focus on the journey as much as the destination. Research from McKinsey & Company also shows that Gen Z prioritizes spending on experiences more than previous generations.

This shift is not about trends. It is about meaning.

Experiences Over Possessions

Experiences create stories, connection, and memory. They do not sit on a shelf. They live in conversations and shared moments.

For Gen Z, travel is often less about collecting landmarks and more about how a place feels. The train ride matters. The walk through a neighborhood matters. The unexpected moments matter.

Different Travelers, Different Styles

Not everyone travels the same way. Some people are drawn to nature and adventure, finding meaning in places like national parks or ancient landscapes. Others are drawn to cities, art, food, and culture. Some travelers want full structure. Others want flexibility and space to decide as they go. There is no single right way to travel.

The Role of Thoughtful Planning

While some people enjoy planning every detail, others simply do not have the time, access, or connections to do so. That does not mean they value the experience any less. Our role is to help create itineraries that are customizable, vetted, and realistic. We focus on making sure experiences are accessible, thoughtfully paced, and supported so travelers can focus on being present.

There is joy in building itineraries. That joy is what drives our work. But not everyone needs to build from scratch to have a meaningful trip.

Travel as a Transition Point

For many Gen Z travelers, trips mark important transitions. Graduation. A pause before the next chapter. Time with friends before paths diverge. These experiences are not about escape. They are about stepping into something new with intention.

Helping Experiences Feel Real

Every generation approaches travel differently. For Gen Z, experiences matter because they create connection, perspective, and shared stories that last. Whether you know exactly what you want or are still figuring it out, we’re here to help shape experiences that feel intentional rather than overwhelming.