Gen Z, millennials, and affluent Americans are leading the surge in summer travel confidence for 2025, according to new research from Allianz Partners USA.
The latest Vacation Confidence Index shows that 70% of Americans under 35 are confident they’ll take a summer vacation this year, compared to just 57% of those aged 55 and older. Nearly one in three (29%) Americans aged 18–34 has already vacationed in the past three months, demonstrating Gen Z and millennials’ commitment to travel despite economic uncertainty.
Income, Education, and Family Shape Travel Plans
Travel intent is also influenced by income and education. Three-quarters (76%) of Americans earning $100,000 or more annually plan to travel this summer, while only 45% of those earning under $50,000 expect to do so. College graduates (70%) are much more likely to vacation than those without a degree (50%).
Family and gender dynamics also play a role: men (68%) and women (59%) both show strong confidence in their vacation plans, and 74% of parents with children at home intend to travel, compared to 58% of non-parents.
Expert Perspective
Emily Hartman, General Manager at Allianz Partners USA, highlighted the impact of these trends:
“As travel continues to rebound, these findings underscore how income and life stage increasingly influence how, and if, Americans plan their vacations,” said Emily Hartman.
“While cost remains a concern for many, Gen Z, Millennials, and affluent families are driving the recovery, and they’re not waiting for perfect conditions to hit ‘book now.’ As more travelers take advantage of quick getaways and flexible planning, having the right travel insurance helps ensure those trips stay protected, no matter what comes their way.”
About the Study
The Vacation Confidence Index, conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs for Allianz Partners USA, surveys over 2,000 American adults each year to assess vacation plans and attitudes. A vacation is defined as a leisure trip of at least one week to a destination 100 miles or more from home.
