How Gen Z Is Redefining Travel in the Social Media Era

Social media isn’t just for memes and dance challenges anymore—it’s also shaping the way Gen Z travels. Gone are the days of flipping through bulky guidebooks or relying solely on word-of-mouth recommendations. These days, if you want to know where to go, what to eat, or how to make your trip as aesthetic as possible, chances are you’re turning to TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube for answers.

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A recent study by Agoda confirmed what most of us already know: Gen Z is redefining travel, and social media is leading the charge. While millennials might still check in with family or friends for travel tips, a huge chunk of Gen Z prefers to get their inspiration from digital platforms. In fact, 22% of Gen Z travelers look to TikTok for ideas, while another 17% rely on travel blogs and vlogs. That means the ‘For You’ page isn’t just feeding you cute pet videos—it’s also curating your next vacation.

Spontaneity is the name of the game

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If there’s one thing Gen Z does best, it’s keeping things exciting. Unlike older generations who prefer to plan every detail weeks or months in advance, Gen Z is all about living in the moment. The study found that one in eight Gen Z travelers books their flights at the last minute. Whether it’s because of a sudden seat sale or a random burst of wanderlust, this generation knows how to make things happen fast.

Spontaneous trips also mean being flexible with plans—something that works perfectly when you’re taking travel cues from social media. One day, you’re scrolling through TikTok and seeing a hidden beach in Siargao, and the next thing you know, you’re packing your bags and heading there yourself. The thrill of discovering new places on the fly is what makes Gen Z’s travel style so unique.

Travel is better with company

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Solo travel is cool, but let’s be honest—some experiences are just better when shared. Gen Z travelers love exploring new places with their favorite people. The study revealed that 40% of Gen Z prefer traveling with their partners, friends, or family instead of going solo. Whether it’s a barkada trip to La Union or a romantic getaway to Japan, this generation thrives on shared experiences and creating memories with loved ones.

Of course, traveling in a group also means having someone to take your Instagram-worthy photos or record your best TikTok transitions. Priorities, right?

Budget travel, but make it stylish

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Gen Z knows how to travel smart without breaking the bank. According to Agoda’s study, 57% of Gen Z travelers prefer budget-friendly trips, keeping their accommodation costs under $50 per night. But just because it’s budget travel doesn’t mean it has to be boring. This generation is all about finding affordable yet stylish places to stay, whether it’s a trendy capsule hotel, a budget-friendly Airbnb with a view, or a boutique hostel that looks straight out of Pinterest.

Social media plays a big role here too. With thousands of travel hacks and budget-friendly recommendations circulating online, it’s easier than ever to find cheap flights, affordable stays, and hidden gems that won’t drain your wallet.

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Gen Z is always on the go

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Travel isn’t just a once-a-year thing anymore. More than half of the Gen Z travelers in the study are planning to take one to three trips in 2025, while about a third have even bigger plans—four to six trips in a year! With so many travel deals popping up and remote work making it easier to explore, this generation is always ready to book their next adventure.

So, if you’re still waiting for a sign to book that trip, consider this your reminder. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a full-blown vacation, Gen Z is proving that travel is all about experiences, spontaneity, and making the most of every moment. And with social media as the ultimate guide, the next big adventure is just a scroll away.