- A recent Opodo survey offers an interesting look at the travel habits of Germans, revealing who they prefer to travel with, what can cause tension during their holiday, and what priorities they would set in an extreme situation, such as a shipwreck. The results paint a multifaceted portrait of the “German” holiday, with generations playing a decisive role in choices and disagreements.
Who do Germans want to travel with?
The survey showed that 55% of Germans prefer to travel with their partner, with this preference increasing with age. Indicatively, 7 out of 10 people over 65 prefer to go on holiday with their partner, while only 37% of young people aged 18-24 make the same choice.
Family holidays are in second place, with a percentage of 44%, with younger people (18-24 years old) showing a particular preference (59%). Women (53%) seem to prefer family company more than men (37%).
Traveling with friends is preferred by 27%, but this tendency decreases with age. It is noteworthy that 15% of respondents choose a solo adventure, a percentage higher than the global average, which reflects the growing trend for independent travel.
On the other hand, there are those who have clear… avoidances:
45% would not want to travel with their boss.
43% avoid holidays with ex-partners – the percentage jumps to 59% among young people 18-24 years old.
In-laws are not particularly desirable, with 12% rejecting them as travel companions.
Seeking harmony, not challenges
The majority of Germans show a clear preference for compatibility:
67% want travel companions who are similar to them or who are adaptable.
45% seek similarity, while 22% value flexibility.
Only 17% want a company that will challenge them to try something new – the spirit of adventure is strongest among the 25-34 generation (23%).
The need for a calm, harmonious holiday seems to prevail over the search for thrills or change.
Unsuspecting castaways: What would Germans choose?
In a hypothetical shipwreck scenario, Germans remain practical:
39% would like to have someone with survival skills with them. The percentage is higher for women (45%) than for men (33%).
Men, however, are more likely to prioritize attraction (30% vs. 21% of women).
17% would choose someone with good problem-solving skills.
The answers show an emphasis on practicality and survival in extreme situations, with personal relationships coming second.
Vacations and disagreements: Generation makes the difference
Disagreements on vacation are not lacking and vary depending on age:
31% argue because of different daily rhythms, a problem more acute for 55-64 year olds (38%).
20% disagree about finances.
Fatigue from long trips bothers 16%, with the 18-24 age group being most affected (24%).
Issues such as the quality of accommodation (13%) or food choices (7%) seem to be less of a concern.
Despite the fact that almost 1 in 2 (49%) say they never fight on holiday, the reality for younger people is different:
74% of 18-24 year olds and
67% of 25-34-year-olds have experienced conflict while travelling,
while the corresponding figure for over 65s is just 25%.
Just 1 in 10 say that a trip has ruined a long-term relationship, but this figure rises to 38% for 18-34 year olds. Younger people seem to face more challenges in managing holidays with others.
