Travel costs are related to age

Europe offers a kaleidoscope of travelers, from young backpackers seeking the sun in Santorini to veterans on Aegean cruises. Studies, including that of the European Travel Commission, suggest that a generational pattern underlies this desire. We see that larger budgets and travel expenses appear with age, while travel frequency often stops its development in midlife. In short, the motivations range from mere escape to the pursuit of deep enrichment.

Interestingly, post-pandemic travel is rebounding, with the average cost of travel falling from €334 in 2020 to €510 in 2023. These trends paint a picture of a resurgent and changing tourism sector, with the age rewriting how we travel in Europe.

Travel costs are rising

It’s pretty clear that money talks when it comes to travel, clearly showing the divide between generations. Travelers over 65 spend the most, averaging around €568 per trip, significantly more than €405 for 18- to 24-year-olds. This difference illustrates how income changes over the life course: Young people probably value experiences more than extravagances, while retirees may use their pensions to splurge on business-class flights or fancy hotels.

Most tours in Europe are short, around four to six nights, combining cost-effective travel plans. What about the overall increase in travel costs? Well, we can largely attribute this to inflation and sustainable demand – that €176 increase from 2020 to 2023 is matched by airfares, hotel costs, and simply enjoying travel again. For Gen Z, it’s often about finding the best deals, like cheap flights and hostels, while older generations can spend on whatever they want.

Who travels a lot?

Forget the old idea of ​​endless student commuters – the data kind of shows that’s a myth. The 25-44 age group drives the most miles, with more than 90% having traveled in the past year. This cycle, often combining career stability and family life, supports frequent travel from weekends to annual vacations. Travel frequency appears to increase with financial security. While young travelers may dip their toes in, those in middle life dip right in, and empty nesters often keep it that way.

Looking ahead, things look good. More than half of Europeans plan to travel in the next six months, rising to 75% among those aged 35-44 and 55-64. Concerns about climate change, along with the rise of hybrid work, are doing just that — digital nomads are mixing work and vacation more than ever before. As one travel expert said, “Age is not a problem; it helps you to be brave.”

From relaxation to soul searching

Essentially, travel is therapeutic, and polls in Europe seem to back that up. 73% of adults travel to relax, reduce their daily stressors. Next is the desire for family and friendship, with 63% using vacations to reunite. Mental health is also a major cause, with 50 percent, as of 2020, showing awareness of burnout. Also, 46% are looking for a change of routine and 39% want to see new cultures, from the Louvre to the hidden places of Ljubljana.

These motivations change subtly over time. Young people often like exciting “escapes,” middle-aged people often focus on family and well-being, and seniors often seek meaningful enrichment. In the era of constant video calls, travel isn’t just an extra — it’s vital.

Inclusive vs. À la carte

Your choice of accommodation says a lot about you. Gen Z (53%) and Millennials (45%) often choose all-inclusive resorts — with buffets and beaches that allow them to anticipate costs, leaving room for spontaneous activities like scuba diving. It’s a perfect choice for Instagrammers, cutting the math while on vacation.

In comparison, baby boomers and the silent generation often avoid the all-inclusive option, opting for regular hotels without extras (preferred by the majority). They prefer flexibility – individual dining, spa treatments when they want – and enjoy the personal touch over packaged deals. This distribution reflects larger trends: Younger generations seek convenience in tough economic times. Older generations, with more money, like to customize their comfort. ## Travel companions: from couples to backpackers and travelers

What exactly is the shape of the journey? In fact, it is the people on your side. Those over 55 travel primarily as a couple, with nearly 58% choosing their partner for a romantic exploration, whether in Rome or a cruise on the Rhine. Families are the best travel group for ages 35-44. About 43% include their children for holidays that may include the castle or the Costa del Sol. This points to the importance of “quality time”.

Interestingly, 18-24 year olds often travel with friends (about 31%). Expect festival visits or fjord exploration. Although uncommon overall, solo travel rises slightly in the 65+ demographic, reaching nearly 9%. Many retirees seem to embrace solo experiences, enjoying independent travel. In a continent that is mass-focused, this singular trend may signal a growing demand for self-guided travel.

Europe is made for personal travel

Moving into 2025, travel trends in Europe are increasingly interconnected. Increased spending power among older adults and more robust booking patterns from busy younger individuals suggest a growing desire to stay connected. While there are differences, these generational preferences are driving the €500 billion travel sector towards optimization. The message is that tour operators need to tailor offerings, such as all-inclusive packages for younger travelers and culturally rich tours for the seasoned traveler.

Finally, while one’s age may influence travel choices, it has little effect on the appeal of exploration. Whether it’s a teenager posting on TikTok while visiting Tallinn or a person in their nineties picking up a glass in Tuscany, the message is always there. Travel light, travel often, and let experiences, not years, define you. Europe is ready; What story would you share?