Rituals & Spaces
Gen Z and the Regenerative Journey of Value-Aligned Travel Choices
Travel has always been an opportunity to break from everyday life. GenZ young adults now align their escapes with their constant values, however.
The information available leads to much higher levels of understanding about social movements, environmental issues, and anti-consumption ideals. Figuring out where to go on vacation and what to experience in their down time involves showing their support for the kind of world they want to live in.
With tighter budgets than past generations, young people choose slower, less rigid itineraries and trips that give something back to the location and community. If they’re going to spend their hard-earned money, they’re going to make sure it does some good.
What specific values do GenZ seek to align with their travel plans? Although relaxation and adventure are always important, more look closely at how their trip affects the world around them. This is the generation with the highest percentage of vegetarians and vegans, so diverse dining options make sense. Sustainability and alternative energy sources make destinations more attractive. Social responsibility in both local and larger communities also matters. The values-based compass imbues every aspect of planning.
Travelers want to connect to the natural environment more closely these days. This can take many forms from outdoor adventure activities to respect for local plants and animal populations. They enjoy cooking classes with ingredients grown on site or sourced nearby, educational and cultural programs with local people, and anything associated with actual or financial support of important causes. For example, a resort integrated with a nonprofit organization dedicated to coral reefs may offer snorkeling excursions based on teaching about ecological impact and protection.
No one wants to introduce more stress on vacation than they experience in their everyday lives. The hectic and over-connected lifestyles that GenZ have makes them want to slow down and connect in quieter, more intentional ways when traveling. Their choices align with their interest in regenerating their own energy stores and psyches. An itinerary may include longer stays at unique places that let them settle into a different rhythm.
One thing GenZ has less interest in, however, is contact with hotel or resort staff from a service perspective. Contactless sign-ins and scheduling are popular. Young travelers tend not to want people to cater to their every need like past generations did in the name of luxury. In this way, too, the slower and deeper connections form in more family or friend-focused atmospheres with people working together rather than staff serving guests.
Young folks have become quite savvy when it comes to spotting greenwashing and similar marketing ploys. It takes more than a leaf icon and a recycling bin outside to make travel meaningful. Instead, they read the fine print and do research about the impact a certain destination has on the world and the people living nearby. Many hotels and resorts clearly display these details, but GenZ folks can take the time to dig deeper and unearth the truth.
When searching for your own next vacation destination or excursion options, start with your values first. The more you support regenerative practices and the locations that align with what you believe in, the more they’ll grow and thrive.
