Indian Gen Z Fuels Rise of Solo, Sustainable Travel

Young Indian travelers, particularly those aged 18-28, are spearheading a significant change in the travel industry. Instead of conventional tourism, they are prioritizing solo adventures, sustainable practices, and authentic cultural immersion.

The Rise of Experiential Travel

For many young Indian adults, travel has evolved into a lifestyle choice centered on personal growth and cultural appreciation. Rather than just seeking relaxation, they want journeys offering a deeper connection with local cultures and nature. Pratham Ahuja, a travel enthusiast from Gurugram, notes that “There’s something raw and honest about being alone in a new place, where every decision, every mistake, and every moment of wonder is entirely yours.”

According to Rikant Pittie, CEO and Co-founder of EaseMyTrip, this shift is fueled by a desire for independence and spontaneity. “With budget options and flexible travel tools, this age group has more freedom than ever before to explore solo or with friends,” he stated.

The Allure of Traveling Alone

Solo travel is extremely popular among Gen Z, providing opportunities for freedom and self-discovery. Pratham notes that “Sometimes it gets lonely, plans go wrong, and it can be scary. But through all that, we learn a lot. Travel gives us the space to grow, to breathe, and to feel free in a way that daily life sometimes doesn’t.” The experience promotes self-reflection, personal growth, empowerment, and independence.

Seeking Authentic and Sustainable Experiences

A significant shift in travel preferences is underway, explains Saurabh Gahoi, Senior Vice President of Ramee Group of Hotels: “Today’s travelers are looking for experiences rather than just destinations.” Budget travel and digital tools now enable young people to uncover offbeat locations, fostering meaningful stays and immersive experiences.

Notably, 69% of travelers want authentic experiences that are representative of the local culture (Travel Pulse 2024).

Sandeep Arora, Director of Brightsun Travel, points out that social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube have normalized solo travel and sustainable tourism. These platforms inspire travel and assist young people in making informed decisions about sustainable travel.

Remote Work Fuels “Workations”

Remote work and flexible academic schedules now enable Gen Z to travel in between major life commitments, thus enabling “workations” in scenic locations. The ability to work remotely allows young professionals to blend productivity with leisure while prioritizing their mental well-being.

Offbeat Destinations and Cultural Immersion

The pursuit of authentic travel has sparked a growing interest in lesser-known destinations. Pardeep Kumar Siwach, Deputy General Manager at Mayfair Spring Valley Resort, Guwahati, notes that young travelers are choosing these destinations over crowded tourist hotspots, seeking deeper cultural connections and unique experiences.

Cultural tourism is on the rise as travelers volunteer, participate in local traditions, and explore food cultures. Sandeep Arora notes that “Gen Z is looking to be immersed in local customs, live with locals, and understand different lifestyles in a way that was not possible before.”

Eco-Consciousness and Community Engagement

Sustainability is a key consideration for young travelers. Gahoi observes that Gen Z seeks eco-friendly options and community-driven experiences, such as participating in food trails, hiking, or cultural events.

Pittie adds that young people’s eco-consciousness is pushing the travel industry to adopt greener practices to make travel more affordable, inclusive, and environmentally friendly. Hotels, airlines, and tour operators now offer eco-tourism packages, local stays, and community-based experiences.

Industry Adapts to Gen Z Preferences

Travel companies are increasingly offering tailored experiences for this age group, such as youth hostels, group adventure tours, and work-travel programs, says Arora. “The industry is becoming more digital-first, with young travelers preferring to plan and book trips via mobile apps and social media platforms,” he adds.

Siwach notes that hotels and resorts are adapting to meet the needs of younger travelers. “Gen Z prefers authentic experiences over standard package tours, and that has pushed hotels to rethink their offerings. Flexible check-ins, co-working spaces, and community-driven activities are becoming standard,” he says.

Safety and Responsibility on the Road

As solo travel grows, safety is a top priority for Gen Z. Pittie stresses the importance of thorough research, understanding local customs, and staying connected with family or friends. “For solo travelers, choosing secure accommodations with positive reviews and visible safety measures can make all the difference,” he advises.

Pratham suggests carrying essential documents, maintaining communication with loved ones, respecting local sensitivities, supporting local communities, and reducing waste. Gen Z is focused on leaving a positive impact on their destinations, ensuring their travels benefit both themselves and the communities they engage with.

Destination Hotspots

Gahoi recommends destinations that offer a combination of culture and natural beauty, such as Udaipur, Bhuj, and Munnar in India. For international travel, he suggests Oman and Bahrain, which offer heritage and modern experiences. Arora recommends visa-free or visa-on-arrival countries like Thailand, Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Mauritius for first-time solo or group trips.

In the coming years, Pittie suggests that young Indian travelers will seek destinations that offer a blend of novelty, adventure, and cultural depth, such as Gudauri in Georgia, Ladakh, and Japan. For an exotic beach escape, he recommends Fiji.

The Future of Travel

As Gen Z reshapes the travel industry, their focus on solo exploration, sustainability, and authentic experiences sets new standards for the future of tourism. The industry must embrace digital platforms, eco-friendly practices, and personalized experiences to cater to this demographic.