Research Insights Generational spending patterns reveal strategic insights for travel brands

Generational spending patterns reveal strategic insights for travel brands

Published:
June 2025
Analyst:
Phocuswright Research

In-destination travel spending is far from uniform—and the latest findings from Phocuswright’s U.S. Traveler Trends 2025 report reveal clear generational distinctions that matter for marketers and strategists alike.

Millennials and Gen Z are the most likely to keep their expenditures modest, with a majority spending under $1,000 per trip. At the opposite end of the spectrum, nearly one in four Baby Boomers report spending $6,000 or more on in-destination experiences. Meanwhile, Generation X continues to live up to its reputation as a demographic midpoint—exhibiting a balanced distribution across various spend tiers.

These nuanced insights offer powerful implications for product development, pricing strategy, and audience targeting. Explore the full report to uncover the data shaping the next wave of traveler engagement.


A pulse on the U.S. leisure traveler: Quarterly insights, emerging trends

Throughout 2025, Phocuswright is conducting a quarterly online survey of U.S. adults who have internet access and engage in leisure travel. This robust, ongoing research initiative offers a timely lens into the evolving preferences, behaviors, and attitudes of American travelers.

Each edition highlights a different facet of the travel experience—spotlighting emerging trends, key consumer segments, and the forces shaping the market. From technology adoption and booking patterns to shifting sentiment and spend, this research tracks what matters most to today’s travelers.

This quarter’s focus: payments, in-destination spending and transportation preferences all by age. Start digging into the insights.

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