For Millennials and Gen Z, travel has become more than just an escape—it is a necessity, a form of therapy, a way to reset in an increasingly demanding world. Yet, despite this deep-seated desire to explore, a staggering 9 in 10 young travellers find themselves unable to embark on the journeys they crave, constrained by time, work, and financial limitations.
The latest Klook Travel Pulse 3.0 survey, conducted in December 2024 through GWI, captures insights from over 7,000 respondents across 14 global markets, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Mainland China, India, Indonesia, and the United States. The findings paint a vivid picture of a generation that deeply values travel but struggles to fit it into their increasingly hectic lives.
“Millennials and Gen Z increasingly turn to travel as their ultimate form of therapy,” says Eric Gnock Fah, President and Co-Founder of Klook. “While life’s stressful demands often leave many frustrated, the transformative power of travel is undeniable.” And with 92% of young travellers experiencing post-travel blues and nearly 40% planning their next trip immediately after returning, it is clear that travel offers more than just a break—it is a force for renewal, creativity, and self-discovery.
Singaporeans Look Beyond Borders for 2025
Singaporean travellers are among those eagerly planning ahead, with more than half (53.3%) already locking in one or two trips for the year. Unlike some markets that prioritise domestic getaways, Singaporeans are firmly setting their sights on international destinations, seeking adventures beyond familiar shores.
For these travellers, several key factors influence their choices. Ideal weather plays a crucial role, as many prefer to time their trips with the best seasonal conditions. Work and school vacation schedules are another significant consideration, shaping travel plans around public holidays and breaks. And, unsurprisingly, affordability remains a major driver, with many travellers strategically planning their itineraries around cheaper flight options and cost-effective deals.
Japan and China Emerge as 2025’s Top Travel Destinations
As 2025 approaches, Japan continues its reign as the ultimate must-visit destination, a sentiment echoed across multiple Asian markets, including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Hong Kong. Meanwhile, Mainland China has emerged as a rising star, experiencing a sevenfold increase in demand compared to last year.
Unlike Japan, where international interest is strong, China’s surge is largely fuelled by domestic travel. Klook’s data reflects a blended average across all surveyed markets, rather than just booking figures, highlighting a growing curiosity for the diverse landscapes and cultural experiences that China offers. While specific cities were not identified, the boom suggests increased interest in both major metropolitan centres like Shanghai and Beijing as well as lesser-explored regions rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
A New Era of Travel: Prioritising Experiences Over Expenses
Despite financial concerns, today’s travellers are not willing to compromise on experiences. In fact, a staggering 91% allocate up to half of their total travel budget on activities, prioritising immersive and memorable moments over traditional expenses like flights and accommodations. For Gen Z in particular, bundled travel packages have become an essential tool in maximising value, allowing them to stretch their budgets while ensuring a seamless, experience-driven journey.
Social media has become the driving force behind these decisions, with 79% of travellers making bookings based on online recommendations. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have transformed the way people plan their trips, inspiring everything from dining choices to hidden-gem destinations. And in a world where aesthetics matter, 27% of travellers are even willing to pay a premium of up to 20% just to visit visually striking, social media-worthy locations.
The Rise of Multigenerational Travel
While much of the travel conversation focuses on Millennials and Gen Z, older travellers are also shaping new trends in 2025. Klook anticipates a continued rise in multigenerational travel, as families seek to create meaningful shared experiences across different age groups. Whether it’s grandparents joining their children and grandchildren on extended trips or families embracing slow travel to accommodate varying needs, this shift highlights a broader movement towards travel as a way to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.
A Renewed Purpose for Travel in 2025
Despite the challenges—rising costs, time constraints, and work commitments—travellers remain undeterred. A remarkable 84% have already mapped out their international adventures for 2025, a notable increase from 71% the previous year. This surge speaks to a generation that is unwilling to wait for the “perfect time” to travel and instead seeks to prioritise exploration as an essential part of their lives.
As we move further into 2025, travel is evolving beyond being just a trip. It is becoming a means of self-care, a form of therapy, and a pathway to personal growth. More than ever, travellers are chasing not just destinations, but experiences that enrich, inspire, and rejuvenate the soul.
For this generation, travel is no longer an indulgence—it is an investment in their well-being.
