Emerging Travel Trends among Gen Z and Millennial Demographics, as Revealed by Recent Polls
In the world of travel, a new trend is emerging, captivating the hearts of Gen Z and millennial travellers – fandom travel, also known as set jetting. This phenomenon involves visiting destinations associated with favourite TV shows or movies, and recent surveys and travel trend reports suggest that it will be a significant trend in 2025.
One of the most popular destinations is Kualoa Ranch in Hawaii, known for its role in the blockbuster film "Jurassic Park." Approximately 29% of respondents expressed eagerness to explore this iconic location. Another intriguing destination is Albuquerque, New Mexico, the filming location of the hit show "Stranger Things." Around 19% of respondents expressed a desire to visit this city.
The romantic charm of Paris, depicted in the series "Emily in Paris," has inspired 22% of travelers, while the exotic locations of Kihei, Hawaii, and Sicily, Italy, featured in "White Lotus," have attracted 17%. Interestingly, 15% of travelers are drawn to Kauai's Keahua Arboretum in Hawaii, inspired by its appearance in the movie "Avatar."
Furthermore, 15% of survey-takers want to explore Kiawah Island, South Carolina, as seen in "Outer Banks." The allure of New Zealand, famously featured in "Lord of the Rings," has captured the hearts of 23% of travelers.
Manchester, England, is experiencing a surge in fans visiting for the highly anticipated Oasis reunion tour, attracting music lovers eager to explore the band’s birthplace. Sports enthusiasts are drawn to Portrush, Northern Ireland, as fans travel to catch The Open 2025 golf tournament on its world-class courses. Bristol, England, is hosting a summer full of festivals such as the BBC Proms, drawing festival-goers for immersive cultural and live music experiences.
New York City is a top-ranked destination for fans interested in visiting iconic film and TV locations, boosted by a strong interest in "set-jetting" following popular movies and series.
Other notable insights include a 20% rise in event-led tourism driven by fandoms of artists like Taylor Swift, Diljit Dosanjh, and Coldplay. Searches for tours of popular filming locations have increased significantly, with a 50% increase for Hobbiton movie set tours and an 83% rise for Game of Thrones tours in Dubrovnik, Croatia.
Interestingly, Gen Z and millennial travellers are willing to spend an average of $2,357 on fandom travel, with 7% prepared to spend between $4,000 and $5,000 on such trips.
In conclusion, fandom travel is a growing trend among younger travellers, with both international cities linked to music, sports, and media franchises gaining popularity. Gen Z and millennials seek meaningful, immersive experiences such as live concerts, sports tournaments, festivals, and visiting famous filming sites, often fueled by social media and streaming platforms shaping their travel choices.
- The increasing popularity of fandom travel is evident, as Gen Z and millennial travellers plan to visit Kualoa Ranch in Hawaii, inspired by the movie "Jurassic Park" (travel).
- Besides television shows like "Stranger Things," places associated with movies and TV shows have become significant travel destinations, and Albuquerque, New Mexico, is one such location (vacation).
- In addition to attending concerts and festivals, entertainment-fueled travel is evolving, with tourists interested in visiting New York City to explore iconic film and TV locations (entertainment, travel, movies-and-tv).
