UAE: Why young travellers prefer spontaneous trips over pre-planned itineraries
Nearly 70 per cent of young travellers prefer spontaneous trips over carefully planned itineraries, a trend that extends to the Middle East, a new survey has found.
Blue Cross (Asia-Pacific), an online insurance service provider, reports that 69 per cent of respondents plan to travel at least twice in the coming year, with 22 per cent intending to take three or more trips.
Traditionally, travel involved meticulous planning, often taking months or even a year to finalise. However, this shift in behaviour shows that one in five young travellers now plans to embark on three or more trips annually.
Technology, cheaper flights make sudden trips possible
Khaleej Times spoke with UAE residents and travel experts to gain further insights into these findings.
Lebanese national Jad Azar said, 'I often wonder if my father's generation had the same freedom to just pick up and go on a whim like we do. While he loved traveling, I don't think trips were as spontaneous as ours. My friends and I plan a whole getaway to places like Oman, Egypt, Turkey in just a week, and it feels like a thrilling adventure every time. It's amazing how much easier it is now -- technology, cheaper flights, and close-knit friendships that make sudden trips possible. Maybe my father's travels were just a different rhythm, but I can't help but appreciate the excitement that comes with these spontaneous trips.'
The study also explored travel-related concerns, revealing that 71 per cent of respondents consider flight delays or cancellations their biggest worry, while around 50 per cent are concerned about lost or damaged luggage.
'But despite the known risks, frankly, I rarely think about things like travel insurance. I think our generation carries a different spirit of adventure,' he added.
Younger residents pointed out that advancements in technology, the fast-paced nature of modern life, and the lasting impact of global events like the Covid-19 pandemic have reshaped perspectives on travel. The focus has shifted from strict planning to embracing flexibility and the thrill of the unexpected.
Kashish Sachdeva, 26, said, 'Life in Dubai is so fast-paced now that we all need a break occasionally, which could range from three to four short holidays in a year. The pandemic also changed our perspective as we now increasingly view life to be more transient, at least for some of us. So, my friends and I often make sudden plans to visit places like Goa or Sri Lanka, and we even once visited Manali in north India. Then we did the golden triangle in India which is Delhi, Agra and Jaipur. Before we realise, we are usually on our way out. It's incredible how much easier it is now with technology, and flight deals. At the end of every holiday we start planning for the next one. Honestly, we don't consider travel insurance, we just go with the flow. It's such a different feeling than what my parents must have experienced who are more meticulous planners. Maybe, with our generation, we require a bit more care and caution when it comes to travelling.'
Prioritising experiences over material possessions
Meanwhile, travel professionals highlighted that this shift is especially evident among younger generations. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, are at the forefront of embracing spontaneous travel. For them, the conventional approach of meticulously planned vacations seems outdated and limiting.
Rashida Zahid (VP - Operations at musafir.com), said, 'We've seen a good surge among younger travellers, particularly those aged 20 to 27, with bookings rising by 10-12 per cent over the past six months. This demographic typically plans their trips three to four weeks in advance and embarks on spontaneous holidays with friends and colleagues.'
Industry experts highlighted that modern travelers prioritise experiences over material possessions and are more inclined to value the freedom to discover new destinations.
Bonnie Tse, Chief Executive Officer of Blue Cross, said, "Today's young people love to travel, seeking out fresh and exciting experiences. They are fearless, innovative and willing to take on challenges. However, their lack of protection awareness is concerning. In addition to common travel disruptions such as flight delays and lost luggage, comprehensive travel insurance provides crucial protection and mitigates the risks against accidents, injuries, and illness during the journey.
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