Where Each Generation Is Traveling and Why
The 2025 travel data proves that every generation has completely different wanderlust and it’s reshaping where everyone’s going.
The world of travel has never been more deliciously divided. While your baby boomer parents are planning their third river cruise this year and your Gen Z cousin is backpacking through Albania after seeing one TikTok, we’re witnessing the most fascinating generational travel split in history. Based on fresh Whimstay booking data and the latest travel trends, here’s where each generation is actually wandering and why their choices say everything about who they are.
Gen Z (18-28): The Anti-Bucket List Generation
The Real Tea: Gen Z isn’t just avoiding Santorini and Bali, they’re actively revolting against them. In 2025, Gen Z is ditching overhyped tourist spots for hidden spots. Gen Z’s wanderlust is all about hiking volcanic craters, exploring lush forests, or climbing Mount Pico for sunrise views.
Where They’re Going:
- Portugal: Because why go to Hawaii when you can have volcanic hot springs without the crowds?
- Fredericksburg: Wine country vibes without the California price tag
- Washington D.C.: Capitol culture meets affordable eats and hidden neighborhoods
- Columbus, OH: The unexpected Midwest gem with a thriving arts scene
- Destin, FL: Gulf Coast beaches that haven’t been completely discovered yet
- Charleston, SC: Southern charm that’s Instagram-perfect but still authentic
- Oaxaca, Mexico: The digital nomad capital that combines mezcal, authentic culture, and excellent WiFi
- Greece: The European secret that offers Italian vibes at Greek prices
Gen Z Travel Personality: These are the “JOMO” (Joy of Missing Out) travelers who’d rather discover a hidden waterfall in Albania than wait in line for a photo of the Mona Lisa. 73% of Gen Zers consider buying from online travel agents with sustainable travel offerings, and they’re twice as likely to choose glamping over hotels. They’re not just traveling; they’re curating experiences that will make their friends say “Wait, where is that?”
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Millennials (29-44): The Beach-Obsessed Wellness Warriors
The Real Tea: Millennials have reached peak “we need a vacation from our vacation” mode. Millennials want to rest and recharge (60%) but also prioritize exploration and adventure (52%), which perfectly explains why they’re choosing beach destinations where they can day-drink responsibly while the kids nap.
Where They’re Going:
- Orange Beach: The Gulf Coast perfect for multi-generational trips
- Panama City Beach: Pure “we’ve made it” energy with white sand and emerald waters
- Myrtle Beach: Family-friendly fun that doesn’t break the bank
- Croatia: The Adriatic gem with stunning coastlines and medieval towns.
- Spain: The European sweet spot for digital nomads and wine lovers
- Costa Rica: Pura vida meets yoga retreats and sustainable travel
- Iceland: Because nothing says “I’ve arrived as an adult” like expensive Blue Lagoon photos
- Greece (but not Santorini): Hidden islands where they can pretend they discovered them
Their Travel Personality: These are the travelers who book accommodations with full kitchens, pack 47 different supplements, and spend more on the pre-trip grocery shopping than some people do on flights. 58% of Millennial and Gen Z parents are planning to travel with their extended family on a vacation in 2025—because nothing says “I need a break” like bringing grandma along to watch the kids.
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Gen X (45-60): The Stealth Luxury Seekers
The Real Tea: Gen X is the generation that perfected the art of “looking like we’re not trying while definitely trying.” Gen Xers travel less than the other generations, but they’re not afraid to spend more when they do, valuing authentic cultural experiences over touristy attractions.
Where They’re Going:
- Gulf Shores: Sophisticated beach retreats with excellent dining
- Miramar Beach: Upscale family gatherings in pristine settings
- Ocean City: East Coast charm with a side of nostalgia
- Italy: But not Rome or Venice—they’re hitting up Puglia and secret Tuscan hill towns
- Scotland: Whisky tours and castle stays that feel like they stepped into Outlander
- New Zealand: Adventure travel that doesn’t require them to sleep in hostels
- France: Wine regions where they can actually pronounce the wines they’re buying
- Eastern Europe: Prague, Budapest, and Krakow for the culture and value
Their Travel Personality: These are the travelers who book the trip six months in advance, research every restaurant, and always end up at the best local spot that “isn’t in any guidebook.” Like Baby Boomers, Gen X travelers prioritize restaurants and culinary experiences (45%), and they seek out local and regional cuisine when traveling (87%). They want experiences that feel exclusive without being pretentious.
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Baby Boomers (61+): The Unapologetic Luxury Enthusiasts
The Real Tea: Baby Boomers have officially entered their “life is short, book first class” phase, and honestly? Good for them. Japan is a paradise and a hot destination for baby boomer travelers in 2025, along with luxury river and Mediterranean cruises.
Where They’re Going:
- Hilton Head Island: Refined coastal luxury that whispers, not shouts
- Port Aransas: Texas coast charm with upscale fishing and dining
- Sunriver: Oregon mountain resort perfection
- Sevierville: Smoky Mountain retreats with Southern hospitality
- River Cruises: Europe’s rivers, from the Rhine to the Danube, in small-ship luxury
- Japan: From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil gardens of Kyoto, from world-class cuisine to ancient cultural traditions
- Antarctica: Because why not cross “see penguins” off the bucket list in style?
- Cultural Tours: Think small-group tours with expert guides through India, Egypt, or Morocco
Their Travel Personality: Baby boomers want to pad softly through the Taj Mahal, to sip fire scorched wines on the slopes of Mount Etna, and to take luxury treks through the dizzying heart of Peru’s Sacred Valley. They’re the travelers who pack two weeks early, arrive at the airport three hours before domestic flights, and somehow always get upgraded. 77 percent of those in the boomer demographic said they’d happily pay for their children, and 81 percent said they’d pay for their grandchildren when booking their next trip.
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The Plot Twist: Everyone’s Converging on One Thing
Here’s what’s fascinating: regardless of generation, everyone wants authentic experiences. Gen Z wants them for the ‘gram and the story. Millennials want them for personal growth and Instagram stories. Gen X wants them for the cultural enrichment; and Boomers want them for the sheer joy of finally having time to appreciate them.
The difference isn’t in what they want, it’s in how they get there. Gen Z will sleep in a van to afford the experience. Millennials will split an Airbnb with six friends. Gen X will book a boutique hotel. Boomers will hire a private guide.
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