Stat: Young travellers prioritise the journey as much as the destination

US – Nearly three-quarters (70%) of Millennials and Gen Z say they prefer to plan trips that focus on enjoying the journey as much as the destination, opting for experiences like luxury rail or cruise travel, according to American Express Travel’s 2025 Global Travel Trends Report.

The findings reflect a growing appetite for intentional, meaningful travel, with Gen Z and Millennials leading the charge across categories. Some 80% use travel planning apps or social media to streamline trips, while 75% say it feels like a reward when they book travel with credit card points.

‘Travellers, especially Millennials and Gen Z, are motivated to book thoughtful, meaningful trips this year,’ said Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel.

Beyond tech and rewards, 82% of younger travellers seek one-of-a-kind goods that will remind them of their trip. Some 57% of Millennials and Gen Z surveyed intentionally travel to a destination to find high-quality items that are hand-made and authentic to the destination they are visiting.

For more insights on why Gen Z are increasingly interested in cruises, head to our Cruise Ship Market report.