The popularity of package holidays is constantly rising, but a new survey by EasyJet holidays brings to light a clear ‘generational gap’ in how and – mainly – when Brits make their bookings.
According to the data, the Gen Z generation shows a preference for bookings… last minute: on average 11.5 weeks before the trip. The motivations? Financial opportunities and ‘budget hacks’ (36%), the need for a mental break (31%) and the allure of spontaneity (26%).
In contrast, Gen X proves to be lovers of planning, booking holidays even five months in advance. Family budget (52%), compatibility with fellow travelers’ schedules (33%) and a desire for complete organization (24%) determine the schedule.
Millennials fall somewhere in the middle, booking about three months in advance.
Millennials and Gen X continue to lead the pack-and-go vacation market, but the younger generation is clearly turning to them. Nearly two in five (38%) Gen Zers say they are more likely to book a package vacation than they were five years ago, citing their low cost (60%), ease of booking (56%) and security (38%).
The survey also shows that the desire for more regular travel is growing across generations: 32% of respondents now take three or more getaways a year, and almost a quarter of Gen Z and Millennials prefer short but frequent trips, with an average duration of 6.7 days.
The main motivations for regular travel are quality time with family and friends (48%), relaxation (44%), and physical and mental well-being (38%).
In addition, the top 10 motivations for last-minute bookings are deals (32%), spontaneity (26%), work scheduling (21%), and mental health recovery (20%).
