New research from Allianz Partners USA reveals that travelers aged 55 and older are driving growth in travel trends pioneered by younger Americans last year, including solo and pet travel.
According to the 2024 Annual Vacation Confidence Index, solo travel now appeals to 23% of seniors (up six percentage points), while 35- to 54-year-olds saw a four-point increase to 35% planning solo trips. Among younger travelers, 42% maintain their commitment to solo trips.
When it comes to pet travel, a quarter (24%) of seniors are bringing animals along, up four points from last year, along with 41% of 35- to 54-year-olds, rising five points.
Meanwhile, “pay-cations” (a new “work-from-a-vacation-destination” trend identified by Allianz last year) and wellness travel persist. Self-care is a priority for 54% of young travelers, 42% of those age 35-54 and 24% of those 55 and older. Working from vacation, meanwhile, saw the greatest spike in travelers 35-54, rising nine points to 35% who are planning pay-cations this year. Among the 18-34 age group, that number rises to 40%, while mature travelers count just 14% of this trend.
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For the first time this year, the survey inquired about the influence of social media on travel plans, finding that 39% of young travelers seek inspiration through social channels. Social is also a source of inspiration for 24% of those 35-54, and for just 5% of the 55-plus crowd.
“Trends first identified in last year’s Vacation Confidence Index — from traveling alone or with a pet to a focus on self-care — are validated in this year’s findings,” said Daniel Durazo, director of external communications at Allianz Partners USA. “Wellness has emerged as a vital part of our everyday health and happiness often incorporated in our travels, and Americans are finding value in social media through inspirational travel experiences.”
The survey of 2,010 Americans was conducted by Ipsos on behalf of Allianz Partners this past April.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Allianz Partners USA. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.