Agents driving uptick in demand for youth-focused travel – Intrepid
James ChappleIntrepid Travel has broadened its Gen Z and millennial-focused 18 to 29 range to travellers in their mid-30s, claiming younger travellers are ditching party holidays in favour of authentic, sustainable experiences.
The adventure specialist’s trips aimed at 18 to 29-year-olds are now badged 18 to 35; Intrepid said it hoped the expansion would help agents cater for an uptick in demand for youth-focused travel from younger clients.
Intrepid has already introduced 15 new 18 to 35 small group tours this year, including a six-day trip to Iceland, a week-long Morocco adventure and a nine-day Essential South Korea itinerary.
All tours are curated by local leaders and have been designed to meet younger travellers’ preferences, such as by creating more free time for self-guided exploration and adding more active experiences.
The operator said it had identified the need for an expanded age range following an increase in enquiries from travellers in their early-30s wanting to join its young adult trips, as well as a preference among Gen Zs and millennials to travel with people of a similar age.
Intrepid’s consumer research uncovered three top priorities for the 18 to 35 age group: unique cultural travel experiences, small-group size and value for money, closely followed by a wider range of destinations and more trips led by local leaders.
In the UK, Intrepid said sales of its youth-focused product increased by nearly two-thirds (64%) in January 2024 compares with January 2023. “We’re seeing strong demand for our youth-focused trip range, particularly through trade partner," said Hazel McGuire, UK general manager for Intrepid.
"Young people are no longer looking for the large groups and party-packed nights of the past. They want climate-conscious, authentic experiences that allow them to connect with local communities."
Sign up for weekday travel news and analysis straight to your inbox
James Chapple
Supplier Directory
Find contacts for 260+ travel suppliers. Type name, company or destination.
Recommended For You
Latest travel jobs
Travel Consultant - Plymouth
Cruise Consultant, Glasgow
Assistant Manager - Birkenhead
Competitions
Upcoming events
TTG Top 50 Travel Agencies 2025
Place of registration: England and Wales.
Company number 08723341.
Registered address: 6th Floor, 2 London Wall Place, London EC2Y 5AU
