New Travelers, New Expectations: 4 Things Gen Z is Looking for in Travel Planning in 2023

As 2023 unfolds, Gen Z has emerged as a powerful force in the travel industry, bringing with them a unique set of priorities and desires - from AI to digital convenience. To cater to this burgeoning segment of adventurers, travel companies and destinations must adapt and innovate their offerings. Let's explore four key aspects that Gen Z travellers are looking for in their travel planning endeavours.

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1. Authentic and Immersive Experiences

Gen Z travellers crave authenticity and unique experiences that go beyond the typical tourist traps. They seek a deeper connection with the places they visit and the people they meet. (1) In 2023, travel planning for Gen Z will focus on bespoke itineraries, cultural immersion, and opportunities to engage in activities that allow them to experience a destination like a local.

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This is a generation that appreciates the fusion of technology and cultural experiences, embracing interactive exhibits, digital storytelling and interactive AI travel assistants. They are drawn to destinations that offer a blend of tradition and modernity, enabling them to delve into a place's history while also experiencing its contemporary cultural landscape.

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2. Digital Convenience

Born in the digital age, Gen Z has a profound affinity for technology. Travel planning in 2023 must cater to this preference for digital convenience and personalisation. Gen Z travellers expect seamless online booking experiences, mobile check-ins, and easily accessible information about destinations. According to Condor Ferries, budget is a factor for 81% of Gen Z when making their booking decisions.

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Gen Z is highly attached to their smartphones, making a mobile-first approach imperative for travel companies and destinations. In fact, the European Travel Commission states that 42% of American Gen Zs interact more with their phones than with people!

In 2023, Gen Z travellers expect real-time communication with travel providers, with the need to feel understood by them (2). This includes responsive customer support through chatbots like how Live the World’s Maya is powered or instant messaging platforms, where they can get immediate answers to their queries or resolve any issues that may arise during their trip. Quick and effective communication channels not only enhance the travel experience but also give travellers a sense of security and trust in the services they have chosen.

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3. Hyper-personalization through AI

Gen Z is the generation of personalisation, and in 2023, they expect nothing less from their travel experiences. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionising travel planning by providing hyper-personalized recommendations and immersive previews of destinations. (3)

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Incorporating AI-driven travel assistants that truly understand individual preferences, recommend unique itineraries, and provide real-time support will become a crucial aspect of travel planning in 2023.

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4. Remote and Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations

In contrast to previous generations, Gen Z travellers are more inclined to explore remote and lesser-known destinations, seeking escape from overcrowded tourist hotspots. (4) In 2023, travel planning must embrace the trend of off-the-beaten-path experiences to satisfy their thirst for adventure and authentic encounters. Live the World’s ethos is sharing hidden gems and getting people excited about a destination beyond the famous landmarks.

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This includes eco-lodges nestled in pristine natural landscapes, remote cultural heritage sites, and sustainable travel initiatives in remote areas - all exciting aspects that will attract Gen Z travellers who are seeking to forge a genuine connection with nature and diverse cultures. Powered by Maya AI, these local tips and special hotel recommendations are offered automatically upon their requests.

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Get ahead of the curve? Getting ready for Gen Z Travellers

Gen Z travellers in 2023 are pushing the boundaries of traditional travel planning, demanding sustainability, authenticity, and personalisation. Embracing and leveraging digital technology like AI Maya’s chatbox, which offers an array of personable recommendations, and gives immersive experiences - will be the keys to capturing the hearts of Gen Z and shaping the future of travel.

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Live the World’s Maya AI travel assistant has additional features such as authentic recommendations which are utilised within minutes for travellers. With its user-friendly mobile app, that is already designed with a smooth and intuitive interface, crafting itineraries on the go or wherever you need is has never been easier. The features from Maya allow travellers to browse destinations, book accommodations and activities, manage their itineraries, and access essential travel information effortlessly on their smartphones - all from one AI travel assistant.

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Ultimately, to win the loyalty of this influential generation, travel companies and destinations must adapt their offerings to align with these changing expectations.

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Sources:

1. CNBC: Gen Zs don't have a lot of money, but they're traveling anyway
2. European Travel Comission: Study on Generation Z Travellers
3. QTravel.ai: Tourism in the Digital Age: How to Capture the Attention of Gen Z
4. Fortune: Gen Zers and millennials get travel right. Here’s their recipe for the ultimate vacation

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