SINGAPORE, 28 April 2026: Asian Gen Z travellers favour experience-first travel and shorter, more frequent trips over traditional longer holidays, according to the latest research from the digital travel platform Agoda.
The findings point to a generation prioritising flexibility, accessibility, and discovery-driven travel, as they look to integrate trips more seamlessly into their routines.
The insights are derived from a survey of Asian travellers conducted as part of Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report — showing that Gen Z travel remains largely a communal activity, most often with partners and family, rather than solo and friend-based trips. At the same time, many expect most of their travel to be domestic, reflecting a balance between exploration and convenience.
Frequent, short trips redefine travel patterns
Gen Z travels more frequently, with shorter trips becoming the norm. Nearly three in four respondents (73%) plan to take between one and six trips a year, and 86% opt for stays of 1 to 7 days.
This shift reflects a move toward travel that is easier to plan and repeat, allowing trips to fit around work, study, and personal schedules. Markets such as India, Thailand, and Vietnam show a stronger inclination toward higher trip frequency, reinforcing the idea that travel is becoming embedded in everyday life rather than reserved for specific seasons.
Experiences take priority over destinations
For Gen Z, travel is increasingly defined by what they want to do, rather than where they want to go. Respondents across Asia say their trips are primarily motivated by experiences, including cultural exploration (32%), outdoor activities (30%), and culinary discoveries (28%). While experience remains central, relaxation still plays an important role for Gen Z, with 64% of travellers also citing it as part of their travel plans. This trend is dominant in markets such as South Korea and Taiwan, where experience is central to shaping travel decisions. It points to a more deliberate approach to travel, where a clear set of experiences shapes each trip. Gen Z travellers plan around what they want to get out of a trip, whether it is cultural immersion, time outdoors, or a change of pace. As a result, destinations are chosen based on how well they align with that intent.
Commenting on the trends, Agoda’s Senior Vice President, Supply, Andrew Smith said: “For Gen Z, travel is becoming something that fits more naturally into the rhythm of everyday life. Instead of building toward one or two larger trips each year, they are choosing to travel more often, with a clear vision of what they want to experience each time. That shift is shaping how decisions are made, with greater focus on flexibility, shorter planning cycles, and exploration. At Agoda, we support that rhythm by offering a wide range of options across flights, accommodations and activities, so travellers can plan trips that suit both their pace and their priorities, while still finding great deals.”
(Source: Agoda)
