Updates 01/31/2025: Ohio's Travel Industry and Current Travel Research

TRAVEL SPENDING IS HIGH, AND MOST RESPONDENTS PLAN TO SPEND MORE IN 2025. CULTURAL ORGANIZATIONS REMAIN A PRIORITY FOR TRAVELERS.

Key findings from Sabre, shared by Travolution Jan. 24:

This survey shows that people are making travel a key priority for 2025. Most respondents plan at least two trips this year, and nearly a quarter plan four or more trips.
Though it is January, only 3% of people said they plan to skip vacations entirely, dropping from 9% in 2024.
Over 90% of respondents said they spend the same or more on travel compared to 2024. Yet spending habits vary between age groups.
- Gen Zers are focusing on budget-friendly options to stretch travel funds.
- Baby Boomers said they are increasing their travel spending in 2025.
Respondents reported that cultural experiences remain a favorite and that they want to visit landmarks, monuments, museums, and galleries during a trip (46%).
Adventure travel is also growing rapidly, with close to 30% prioritizing outdoor pursuits. This is especially strong in Gen Z, with 73% of respondents saying outdoor activities and sports are a must during vacation.
Culinary experiences are becoming increasingly important for Baby Boomers, with 27% saying food is a top priority.

FUTURE PARTNERS LOOKS CLOSELY AT TRENDS IMPACTING TRAVEL PLANNING AND BUDGETING

Key findings from Future Partners, fielded Dec. 2024:

The 'buy now, pay later' payment plan has increased for 2025 trips. Nearly 21% of Americans said they plan to use this finance option for their trips this year, yet almost 63% say they are unlikely to.
- 45% of Gen Z are likely to use this plan.
- 33% of Millennials are likely to use this plan.
- 21% of Gen X is likely to use this plan.
- And just 8% of Boomers are likely to use this plan.
Interestingly, nearly 62% of American travelers feel it's almost certain that AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to plan travel will become more popular this year.
As for where Americans plan to travel, 52% feel it's likely an increasing number will avoid select destinations based on personal politics.