Sports, Concerts, Adventure: This Is What’s Driving Gen Alpha And Gen Z Travellers
The travel landscape is experiencing a seismic shift, with Generation Alpha (born after 2010) and Generation Z (born between 1997-2012) emerging as the driving forces behind family travel planning. Hilton’s 2025 Trends Report, Small Voices, Big Choices, reveals how these young travellers in India are reshaping family vacations, with their preferences taking centre stage.
According to the report, a remarkable 93% of Generation Alpha and Z in India actively influence their family’s travel plans. While parents still handle logistics like accommodation and budgeting, these young voices are setting the agenda for where to go and what to do! Their involvement reflects a shift in family dynamics, with younger generations now central to creating meaningful experiences.
For Generation Alpha, travel is more than just a vacation—it’s a journey of self-discovery. 91% of young travellers take pride in India’s global cultural influence, while 79% of parents choose destinations that align with their heritage. Beyond cultural exploration, 84% of young travellers in India view travel as a key to enhancing their education and personal development. Indian parents agree, with 72% (versus 63% globally) selecting culturally significant destinations to support their children’s learning and growth.
What motivates these young travellers? Sports events, music concerts, and outdoor adventures rank as the top travel draws for 2025. Events like the FIFA Club World Cup and Women’s ODI Cricket World Cup are must-attend experiences for 47% of Indian youth, while 38% are drawn to music concerts, particularly the rising global K-pop scene. Nature festivals and adventure camps are also trending, reflecting a thirst for unique and enriching experiences.
For Gen Alpha and Z, technology is integral to travel. According to the report, these young digital natives spend up to four hours daily on their devices during vacations, sharing experiences on social media and staying connected with loved ones. Smartphones, smartwatches, and music players are essential travel companions, and access to technology is a top priority for these tech-savvy travellers.
Indian Gen Alpha and Z travellers are also passionate about exploring, with 94% taking at least one trip annually and planning to continue travelling in the years ahead. This enthusiasm is a testament to the growing influence of younger generations in shaping the future of travel.
While Indian youth love exploring their own country’s cultural riches, they are also eager for global experiences. Unlike older generations who prioritise convenience, these young travellers are driven by a desire to immerse themselves in diverse cultures, setting the stage for a more globally connected future. The report highlights that the emerging generation is increasingly eager to explore beyond Asia, seeking to immerse themselves in diverse cultures. Their top travel destinations include India (34%), Singapore (28%), the U.S. (22%), Australia, and the U.K. (17%).
In contrast, Gen Y (millennials) continues to favor familiar Asian destinations for convenience and comfort, with Japan (29%), India (28%), Singapore (25%), the Maldives (21%), and Malaysia (17%) topping their list.
