Skip to Content

Beyond the Bucket List – American Express Report Shoes Experiential Travel Boom

Beyond the Bucket List – American Express Report Shoes Experiential Travel Boom

In 2024, travelers are ditching traditional itineraries to favor solo adventures, last-minute getaways, and trips built around unforgettable events. A desire for transformative experiences is their driving force. A new report from American Express Travel obtained this information from surveyed travelers across seven countries – the United States, Australia, Canada, India, Japan, Mexico, and the United Kingdom is where we learned about this recent change in travel priorities. 

Memories Over Monuments – Experiential Travel Takes Center Stage

The survey identified a clear trend: tourists prioritize experiences above places. While traditional sightseeing still has appeal, 77% of respondents stated that they are more concerned with creating the ideal schedule focusing on unique activities than merely checking off a list of destinations. 

This is evident in the increased popularity of solo travel, with 76% of Millennials and Generation Z planning a solo vacation this year. Interestingly, solitary travel does not necessarily imply isolation.  60% of those planning solo travels intend to take at least two further trips in the same year, indicating a desire for solitary discovery and social connection.

From Solar Eclipses to Sporting Spectacles – Embracing Transformative Experiences

The desire for unique encounters goes beyond solo trips. The survey discovers an increasing interest in “major trips” to provide transforming experiences. This is seen in the increased interest in volcanic hikes and the projected inflow of people to Texas for the forthcoming solar eclipse, which is estimated to quadruple Bell County’s population. Sporting events are also popular, with many tourists booking trips around major events such as the Summer Olympics in Paris.

Flexibility and Spontaneity – The New Travel Must-Haves

Today, travelers seek flexible plans and discover hidden gems on their travels. According to the report, 68% of respondents prefer flexible itineraries that allow for spontaneous exploration and connecting with the local culture. Nearly 60% favored booking last-minute excursions to local destinations, demonstrating a thirst for excitement without considerable planning.

Audrey Hendley, president of American Express Travel, sums up the travel landscape in 2024 perfectly: “People are traveling to make memories in 2024. Whether it’s a quick solo escape or an expedition cruise, trending trips are all about creating lasting memories and transformations.”

The new trend toward experience-driven travel will keep the industry on its toes. Anticipating some excellent prospects for both travel businesses and destinations. By responding to this new breed of explorers’ desire for flexibility, unique experiences, and spontaneous adventures, the travel industry can keep the desire for tourism spreading.

More From The Green Voyage

Top 10 Trending Travel Destinations 2024

6 Essential Banking Apps for International Travel – Managing Your Finances on the Go

Traveling With Kids – 10 Tips to Create Memorable Family Holidays

The post Beyond the Bucket List – American Express Report Shoes Experiential Travel Boom first appeared on The Green Voyage.

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Margaret.Wiktor.

Related posts:

Manhattanhenge in NYC
20 Affordable International Destinations with Direct Flights from the U.S.
Rising Crime Rates: Should You Rethink Travel to These 18 U.S. Cities?
Top 20 Countries Where American Expats Are Welcomed with Open Arms
Etna Eruptions: Is It Safe to Travel?
Tourism Cares Takes Flight - Expanding the Meaningful Travel Program for a Sustainable Future
Spring Break Season - Tips for Navigating Miami International Airport's Busiest Season Ever
The Rising Interest in NAD+ Therapy for Wellness
The Swallowing Of The Amazon: How Long Until It's Gone?
Professor Dituri Spends 100 Days Underwater - Did He Reverse Aging?
What Happened to the Iconic Baltimore Bridge?
New York's $100 Million Museum Makeover: Worth It or Waste?
Rare Kayaking Opportunity Emerges in Death Valley's Badwater Basin Following Unprecedented Rainfall
Almost $500,000 for Michelin Star Meals in the Stratosphere - Space Travel Company to Offer Unique E...
Exploring the World with TikTok: Gen Z's Travel Guru (Despite Uncertainties)
How Taylor Swift Fans Are Fueling the Rise of "Gig-Tripping"
Travel Advisory: What You Need to Know About Visiting Jamaica
Yes, You Can Bring Food on a Plane: Here’s How to Do It Right
Americans Can No Longer Pay Their Way Into Spain
Washington, D.C.’s Cherry Blossoms - Anticipated Peak Bloom in 2024
Beyond the Headlines: Why North Korea Might Be Safer Than You Think
"National Geographic Bucket List Family Travel" - A Guide to Globetrotting with Kids
Nashville: 21 Must-See Attractions and Activities
The Cost of Magic - Walt Disney World Ticket Prices Increase for 2025
The Constant Build of Sagrada Familia – Is There Finally an End in Sight?
Grounded: The Plane Shortage That's Stranding Americans
New York’s $2.4 Billion Plan: Transforming Urban Travel Amid Growing Migrant Influence
Discover the U.S. States Still Flying Under the Tourist Radar
A New Home for Hip Hop in NYC
Travel Insurance Has Become Something Many Feel is a Necessary Protection Rather Than Extra Expense