Bucharest, April 10 – Travel preferences can reveal a lot about a person, but they can also provide clues about the generation they belong to. Kiwi.com, a leader in the travel-tech industry, recently conducted a survey* to analyze how Romanians are planning their vacations in 2025, and the results highlight some interesting differences between Millennials and Gen Z.
When it comes to travel motivation, relaxation tops the list for both generations. However, it seems to be slightly more important for Millennials – 81.7% said they want to disconnect and escape stress, compared to 71.4% of Gen Z.
Exploring new destinations and discovering different cultures ranks second for both groups: 55.2% of Millennials and 52% of Gen Z chose this option.
Frequency of Travel in 2025: A European Getaway and Beyond
In terms of travel frequency in 2025, the majority of respondents from both generations plan at least one getaway in Europe: 26% of Millennials and 28.6% of Gen Z say they will go on a single European vacation this year. However, Gen Z appears more inclined to travel more frequently and farther – 20.7% aim for 2–3 vacations, including outside Europe, while only 15.8% of Millennials intend to do the same.
Choosing Destinations in 2025: Cost Influences Both Generations
The choice of destination in 2025 is largely influenced by costs, for both groups. Airfare and accommodation prices are at the top of the selection criteria. Interestingly, 25% of Millennials consider family-friendly activities when choosing a destination, while only 5% of Gen Z find this aspect relevant. In contrast, Gen Z shows a higher interest in nightlife, festivals, and sports activities – about 10% prioritize these options, compared to 6% of Millennials.
Inflation and rising prices are a common concern for both generations. Booking flights early is one of the most common saving strategies – 49% of Gen Z and 53.3% of Millennials say they prefer to make their plans in advance. However, asked if inflation will influence their travel behavior in 2025, 26.2% of Gen Z said no – they intend to travel and enjoy vacations regardless, while only 19% of Millennials responded the same.
Travel Stress and How Different Generations Cope
When it comes to stress during travel, more Millennials (27%) fear getting stuck in airports due to flight cancellations, compared to 21.6% of Gen Z. However, both generations agree that finding affordable tickets can be overwhelming.
Asked how they manage unforeseen changes during travel, Gen Z appears more proactive: 35.2% consider alternative flights or modes of transportation, compared to just 23.7% of Millennials. On the other hand, Millennials are more attentive to booking details – 48% say they constantly check emails and updates about flight schedules or gate changes, while only 41% of Gen Z do the same.
To reduce travel-related stress, Kiwi.com supports users with the Kiwi.com Guarantee service, which includes instant credit for canceled or missed flights, automatic check-in, and quick access to boarding passes directly in the app – all for a simpler travel experience.
2025 Travel Trends Highlight Generational Differences
The “coolcationing” phenomenon – choosing cooler destinations to avoid the heatwave – is attractive to 26% of Gen Z but only 19% of Millennials consider it. Additionally, “nocturnalism,” which involves night-time adventures such as stargazing or watching the northern lights, is preferred by 30.4% of Gen Z and just 21.5% of Millennials.
Even packing habits differ: Gen Z are more efficient – only 31.6% admit to packing clothes they never wear, compared to 42% of Millennials who do the same.
While both generations love to travel, the way they do it reflects their different values and lifestyles. From how they plan their vacations to destination choices and new travel trends, Gen Z are more spontaneous and focused on experiences, while Millennials are more budget-conscious and family-oriented. Kiwi.com continues to support each travel style with flexible and affordable options, suited to all types of adventures.
