Younger travelers are more willing to spend on spring vacations
With warmer weather on the horizon, Gen Z is packing their bags: while 62% will stay stateside, 38% will spend at least a portion of their spring trip out of the country. With this in mind, the majority of Gen Z will be taking to the skies: 60% will fly to their destination and 33% will drive their own cars. Nine in 10 will have a travel buddy, with 41% bringing their partner/spouse, 35% traveling with friends, and 33% traveling with family.
Looking for luxe
Don’t expect Gen Z to be roughing it on Spring Break: 20% of them describe themselves as willing to spend on all the best experiences, the highest of all generations. Nearly 4 in 10 (37%) will be staying at a resort, and the same number plan on treating themselves to spa services on their trip.
Describe self as “Looking for Luxe”
Making travel rewarding
Gen Z is leaning into travel rewards: 62% of Gen Z spring travelers have a travel credit card, on par with the spring travel average. Of those, 85% will be using their cards to pay for their trips. Two in 10 (18%) will be redeeming rewards to pay for their trip.
Have a credit card with travel rewards
Going Shopping
Nine in 10 (97%) of Gen Z is going shopping to prepare for their trip. On their lists: apparel (63%), footwear (44%), and beauty/personal care (46%). Gen Z is also buying jewelry (30%), higher than the spring travel average at 15%.
Shopping to get ready
Key takeaway: Travel is a splurge for many Gen Z’ers
For many Gen Z travelers, spring vacations are the perfect opportunity to splurge. Brands looking to connect with Gen Z should be prepared to offer these young customers elevated products and experiences that make for a memorable trip.
Source: Bread Financial proprietary study, Spring Travel Look Ahead, February 2025.
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, including Bread Financial general purpose credit cards and savings products, empower our customers and their passions for a better life. Additionally, we deliver growth for some of the most recognized brands in travel & entertainment, health & beauty, jewelry and specialty apparel through our private label and co-brand credit cards and pay-over-time products providing choice and value to our shared customers.
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