Gen Z's summer bucket list includes five festivals and four trips abroad - but on a budget

North Wales Live

05-06-2025

A recent survey has revealed that Gen Z's ideal summer would comprise attending five festivals and taking four trips abroad, all on a budget of less than £1,000.
Their dream schedule also includes seven beach days and four staycations during the sunniest three months of the year. For a brave quarter of the demographic, a trip to a theme park is an essential part of their summer plans.
However, financial limitations are a worry for 79 per cent, casting uncertainty over their ability to fulfil every item on their bucket list. Consequently, many are looking at budget-friendly travel strategies to make their money go further.
Quality transportation between events is considered vital by three quarters of those surveyed. This is because they value comfort during lengthy journeys and believe it sets the mood for a successful trip.
This useful tool from National Express demonstrates how you can maximise your festival experiences, on a budget. Simply enter your postcode and your favourite party companion's, and it will display all the summer festivities you could be attending.
According to John Boughton, the commercial director for National Express who led the study, young individuals face significant financial constraints. He said: "While the appetite for adventure is sky-high, the reality of rising costs means many young people are having to balance their dreams with what's actually doable."
With hundreds of UK festivals and events at their disposal, the biggest deterrent is often the costs associated with these entertainment-filled weekends, which can easily amount to hundreds of pounds.
Boughton observed, "That's why we're seeing Gen Z getting smart with their spending-being selective, savvy and seeking out ways to make the most of their money, with the travel there and back being key."
Further research findings indicate that Gen Z plan to attend an average of six barbecues and six seaside fish-and-chip outings this summer. Additionally, 29 per cent wish they could allocate more funds for dining out or ordering takeaways, if only to avoid cooking.
However, the survey highlights that 72 per cent view enjoying the summer as a luxury. Despite this, 43 per cent still believe it's more important to have fun in the sun.
John added: "Ultimately, Gen Z aren't prepared to sit the summer out. They're finding clever ways to stay in the moment, prioritise what matters most, and still have an unforgettable time and it is encouraging that they are looking for affordable, reliable and comfortable travel to get the most out of their summer.
"This is a generation that thrives on fun, freedom and flexibility-and they're making it work, one plan at a time."