What you need to know

Based on their travel behaviors and attitudes, Millennials are emerging as one of the most valuable population segments for the growing US travel industry. Mintel’s consumer research data indicates that not only are they leading in leisure travel and business travel spending, but they are also blurring the lines between leisure and business travel. While the tech-savvy, trendy Millennials draw travel inspiration from a variety of sources, many have families of their own and as they want their kids to have fond family vacation memories, they also reflect some traditional American values and look for travel experiences that will appeal to children – as well as satisfy their desires for authentic travel experiences.

Definition

The purpose of this Report is to identify Millennials’ travel attitudes and behaviors, and to better understand which factors inspire and influence them.

Millennials The generation born between 1977 and 1994. In 2016, Millennials are between the ages of 22 and 39.

When split into two groups, Millennials are defined as:

Younger Millennials Millennials born between 1987 and 1994. In 2016, Younger Millennials are between the ages of 22 and 29.
Older Millennials Millennials born between 1977 and 1986. In 2016, Older Millennials are between the ages of 30 and 39.

Vacation travel: Nonbusiness leisure travel that includes at least one overnight stay. This may include visits to family, volunteering, religious events, or other nonbusiness overnight stays.

Business travel: Client meetings, meetings with co-workers in other offices, attending conferences, presenting at conferences, trade show or convention, taking a professional class or seminar, and teaching a professional class or seminar that includes at least one overnight stay.

Back to top