EXPERIENCES ARE CRUCIAL FOR YOUNG AMERICAN TRAVELERS

Arival Travel’s newest report throws a curveball into the way Americans plan their trips—especially with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge. The 2025 US Experiences Travel Outlook reveals that what truly matters now isn’t the usual checklist of sights, but rather the vibe of the experience itself.

A survey of 800 U.S. travelers, combined with responses from an additional 2,400 people across Europe and the United States, delves into the habits, preferences, and genuine expectations of young American travelers. This isn’t just about hard data; it’s about capturing the lived feel of travel and how people now see their adventures.

Experiences, the Key to Choosing a Destination

Close to 65% of people say that the available experiences influence their decision-making—a shift that’s most noticeable among travelers aged 18 to 54. They’re after a mix of local flavors, quirky themed outings, and the kind of neighborhood authenticity you can really sink your teeth into. The old mindset of “I want to go here, so what’s there?” is slowly morphing into, “I want to do this—where can I have the best time?”

What Young American Travelers are Looking For

There’s growing buzz around food adventures, community gatherings, themed tours, wellness getaways, festivals and even sporting events. Interestingly, people under 34 tend to lock in their plans well ahead, whereas those over 55 often book last minute or even decide once they reach their destination. This blend of planning styles shows how eclectic travel tastes have become; preferences repeat and shift in unexpected ways.

Outlook for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, even as the demand for unique travel experiences grows, economic challenges like inflation are hard to overlook. In most cases, many young American travelers may stick to just one or two trips a year, while a few may not travel at all. Experts, with a note of caution, advise tour operators to step up their game by offering more personalized and interest-driven adventures in this increasingly competitive market.