Gen Z, millennials and affluent households most likely to travel this summer
New research also shows that younger Americans are significantly more likely to have been away in the last three months
Confidence in taking an annual holiday has reached a record high, according to Allianz Partners USA’s latest Vacation Confidence Index.
The annual study also reveals notable differences in travel attitudes and behaviours across demographic groups of the US population.
Despite mixed signals about the broader economy, younger and higher-income Americans are still eager to get away. A clear majority (70%) of Americans under the age of 35 are confident they’ll take a summer vacation this year, compared with 57% of their older counterparts (aged 55+). Nearly one in three (29%) of those aged 18–34 have already taken a holiday in the past three months, reinforcing this generation’s commitment to prioritising travel.
Allianz’s data also underscores how income and education continue to shape travel behaviour in a post-pandemic world. Three-quarters (76%) of Americans earning at least US$100,000 annually are planning to travel this summer, compared with just 45% of those earning under $50,000. Similarly, those with a college degree (70%) are far more likely to take a vacation than those without one (50%). This reflects a broader consumer trend where those with greater financial flexibility are still spending on experiences, while cost-conscious groups are scaling back.
Parents with children at home are also showing high intent to travel, with 74% planning summer getaways, compared with just 58% of non-parents.
“As travel continues to rebound, these findings underscore how income and life stage increasingly influence how, and if, Americans plan their vacations,” said Emily Hartman, General Manager at Allianz Partners USA. “While cost remains a concern for many, Gen Z, millennials, and affluent families are driving the recovery, and they’re not waiting for perfect conditions to hit ‘book now’. As more travellers take advantage of quick getaways and flexible planning, having the right travel insurance helps ensure those trips stay protected, no matter what comes their way.”
In India, millennials and older Gen Zs are also leading a surge in international travel, according to travel insurer ACKO.