Responsible and Rejuvenating: Contiki Survey Reveals Travel Trends for Canadian Gen Z and Millennial Travellers

Image: Contiki Delta Game Drive (Photo Credit: Contiki)
Image: Contiki Delta Game Drive (Photo Credit: Contiki)
TravelPulse Staff
by TravelPulse Staff
Last updated: 12:35 PM ET, Wed November 19, 2025

Contiki surveyed more than 1,000 Gen Z and Millennial travellers to gauge what is important to them when it comes to taking a trip.

The tour company, which specializes in the 18-35 age demographic, says the release of  The Voice of a Generation survey (now in its fifth year) is one of the best parts of the year as it lends a direct window into what travellers want from their next trip. 

“The survey helps us understand the top motivators and expectations of Gen Z and Millennial travellers,” says Toni Ambler, Chief Customer Officer. “This insight is invaluable for travel advisors, as it shows how the next generation is shaping the travel experience and allows travel professionals to guide their clients toward trips that truly match their priorities and exceed expectations.”

Some of the key findings include:

Responsible exploration is taking priority over ticking off famous landmarks. 70 percent of young travellers said they’d either skip a bucket-list destination or seek out a less-crowded alternative to combat over tourism. 35 percent said they actively seek out sustainable travel experiences from environmentally-conscious brands, while 14 percent prioritize sustainability above all else.

Contiki Voice of a Generation slide two

(Photo Credit: Contiki)

Nostalgia travel is another major motivator, with 83 percent saying they’d already recreated a trip from their childhood, or would like to in the future. 

Contiki Voice of a Generation slide three

(Photo Credit: Contiki)

Time as money is top of mind for young travellers, with nearly a third using or considering Buy Now, Pay Later plans to fund their trips and paying off their vacation in their own time. When it comes to perks, over half (55 percent) would trade a raise for more PTO, proving that time to travel is valued just as much as money. 

Contiki Voice of a Generation slide one

(Photo Credit: Contiki)

Rest and recharge: Burnout is fuelling the urge to pack a bag for travel, with 60 percent citing it as their main reason for wanting a vacation, and 24 percent highlighting tech burnout specifically. Over half also believe maintaining a wellness routine or engaging in wellness-focused activities while travelling is important.

To read more about Contiki’s Voice of a Generation – Canada, please see www.contiki.com/six-two.

Related: Contiki’s New Trips Score Perfect Customer Feedback on First Departures



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