India’s Gen Z weighs in on the Beaches vs Mountains debate — and it’s still close!

MUMBAI: Digital travel platform Agoda shares the top five travel habits of India’s Gen Z is a generation that finds inspiration in the digital realm, embraces spontaneity, and values shared experiences, according to a recent survey by an online travel company, which highlighted the preferences of young Indian travellers aged 18-27. The survey sheds light on the way Gen Z sets the stage for the future generations, it added.
Beaches take a narrow lead, but the debate continues, said the survey by Agoda. It revealed that beach getaways and island retreats are the preferred choice for the young generation. "While the allure of the Himalayas remains, the ocean wins by a narrow margin, with 26% of Gen Z respondents preferring beaches compared to 25% who favour mountains for their adventures. Millennials in India are more in favour of beach holidays, with 29% choosing serene beaches versus 18% preferring mountains," the survey said.
Social media, as expected, is the new travel guide. "Gen Z is taking to social media for travel inspiration, with Instagram emerging as their go-to source (28%). For this generation, digital platforms and tools like Google searches (20%), travel blogs or vlogs (13%), and travel apps (8%) play a crucial role in shaping their travel decisions. However, despite the dominance of these digital sources, nearly 15% of Gen Z in India still rely on recommendations from friends and family," the survey said.
Spontaneous spirit is another aspect of travel when it comes to Gen Z. Last-minute bookings on the rise. "Gen Z embraces the thrill of spontaneity, booking flights and accommodations at the last minute more than any other generation. Over 30% of Gen Z travellers book their flights less than a week in advance, and 44% make last-minute hotel bookings, showcasing their flexible and adventurous approach to travel," it said.

Travelling in tandem is in as well. Partnered adventures take the lead. For Indian Gen Z, travel is a shared experience, with 41% preferring to explore the world with a partner. Group trips with friends (23%) and family vacations (11%) also rank high, underscoring the importance of connection and companionship in their journeys. This marks a generational shift from Millennials, who prioritise family trips over other travel styles.
Cost-conscious journeys are the way to go for this lot as spending habits align across generations. "Budget-friendly travel is key for Gen Z, with 64% aiming to keep their accommodation costs under ~INR 4,200 per person per night and 24% willing to spend ~INR 4,200-8,400 per night. Millennials follow closely, with 52% sharing similar spending habits. This approach reflects a preference for value-driven travel, where younger generations prioritise experiences over luxury," it added. Krishna Rathi, senior country director for India subcontinent and MEA at Agoda, said: “Gen Z travellers in India embrace spontaneity, seek special experiences, and use digital platforms for inspiration.”