Travel Statistics by Age – What Every Traveller Should Know

Did you notice that millennials dominate weekend getaways while retirees flock to cruises? Knowing who travels when can save you money and help you pick the right trip.

Who’s Booking Which Type of Holiday?

People in their 20s and 30s make up roughly 45 % of all short‑break bookings. They love city escapes, budget hostels, and spontaneous last‑minute deals. Apps and flash sales drive their choices, so you’ll see a spike in bookings on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when airlines release discounts.

The 40‑50 age bracket prefers longer stays—usually a week or more—often mixing culture with comfort. They tend to book well in advance, look for mid‑range hotels, and favour destinations with good food scenes and easy transport. Their average spend per night is about 20 % higher than the younger crowd.

Travelers over 60 represent about 15 % of total bookings but they account for the highest average spend per trip. Cruises, guided tours, and all‑inclusive resorts are their go‑to options. They book months ahead, value safety information and accessibility, and often travel with a partner or small group.

How Age Affects Travel Spending and Timing

When it comes to money, the numbers are clear. Millennials spend roughly £800 on a typical city break, while Gen‑X travelers (35‑49) push that figure to £1,200, and the over‑60 group can easily exceed £2,000 for a cruise or luxury resort.

Timing also varies. Younger travelers chase off‑peak prices and are comfortable with last‑minute changes. That’s why you’ll find flash‑sale alerts buzzing on social media. In contrast, older travelers avoid peak seasons to dodge crowds and look for early‑bird discounts, often booking six months ahead.

Understanding these patterns helps you plan smarter. If you’re a 30‑year‑old, set price alerts for mid‑week flights and be ready to snap up a deal. If you’re 55, lock in your holiday during the early booking window to snag the best rooms and secure any mobility assistance you might need.

Destinations also follow age trends. Beach resorts in Spain and Portugal attract the 25‑40 crowd for short, sun‑filled breaks. Cultural trips to Italy, France, and the UK see a balanced mix but lean toward the 40‑55 segment who appreciate museums and wine tours. Cruise lines dominate the 60+ market, especially Mediterranean and Caribbean routes that offer all‑included meals and easy shore excursions.

Finally, don’t overlook the rise of “experience” travel among all ages. Whether it’s a cooking class in Tuscany or a wildlife safari in Kenya, travellers of any generation are willing to spend extra for unique activities. Booking early often unlocks better rates for these experiences, so keep an eye on specialised tour operators.

Use these age‑based insights to match your budget, timing, and destination preferences. The right data makes the planning process quicker, cheaper, and way more enjoyable.