Quicktake: Gen Z not giving up on summer travel plans
Younger travelers are more likely to spend more, fly to destination
Gen Z travelers aren’t letting high inflation and fuel costs deflate their travel plans. This generation is going all-in on summer travel, with 54% of Gen Z summer travelers planning a longer trip than last year’s vacation and 60% saying they plan to spend more this year. A majority (51%) will be flying to their destination and 20% of them describe themselves as “looking for luxe,” willing to spend on all of the best experiences.
Gen Z intends to spend more
Six in 10 Gen Z summer travelers plan to spend more on this year’s trip compared to last year, higher than the average of 45%. Only 8% of Gen Z plans to spend less this year, compared to the average at 13%.
Gen Z more likely to plan to spend more
Most will shop to prepare for their trip
Nearly all (95%) of Gen Z travelers plan to shop to prepare for their trips. Apparel tops their shopping list (63%), statistically flat to the average. Gen Z leads in plans to purchase jewelry (31%), sports equipment (24%), and books/activities (24%).
Gen Z’s pre-trip shopping list includes apparel, jewelry
Financing will play an important role
Gen Z summer travelers appear to be savvy when it comes to paying for their travel expenses. While 56% will use debit and 45% will use credit cards, Gen Z leads in plans to use buy now, pay later/pay over time (18%), gift cards (16%), and cryptocurrency (12%)
Gen Z leads in plans to use many different payment types
Key takeaway: Gen Z travelers are not shortchanging their experiences
Despite the macroeconomic headwinds, Gen Z is ready to splurge on a vacation – including plans to do some pre-trip shopping. Brands looking to engage with Gen Z summer travelers should appeal to the aspirational nature of vacationing, highlighting feel-good moments worthy of sharing with family and friends.
Source: Bread Financial proprietary study, Summer Travel Plans, April 2026.
About Bread Financial®
Bread Financial® (NYSE: BFH) is a tech-forward financial services company that provides simple, personalized payment, lending and saving solutions to millions of U.S. consumers. Our payment solutions deliver growth for some of the most recognized brands in travel & entertainment, health & beauty, technology, electronics, jewelry, home and specialty apparel through our co-brand and private label credit cards and pay-over-time products providing choice and value to our shared customers. Additionally, we offer Bread Financial general purpose credit cards and saving products that empower our customers and their passions for a better life.
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