Digital travel platform Agoda reveals that Vietnamese Gen Z travelers, are reshaping travel into a more regular, experience-led part of life, favoring shorter, more frequent trips over traditional longer holidays.
The findings point to a generation prioritizing flexibility, accessibility, and discovery-driven travel, as they look to integrate trips more seamlessly into their routines.
The insights are derived from a survey of Asian travelers as part of Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report — showing that Gen Z travel remains largely a communal activity, most often with partners and family, rather than solo and friend-based trips. At the same time, many expect most of their travel to be domestic, reflecting a balance between exploration, convenience, and cost-friendly options.
Frequent, Short Trips Redefine Travel Patterns
Vietnamese Gen Z arrange their travel journeys with a ‘more but shorter’ approach, with over three in four respondents (81%) planning to take up to six trips in the coming year, and almost four out of five opting for stays of under seven days. This shift reflects a move toward travel that is easier to plan and repeat, allowing trips to fit around work, study, and personal schedules.
Other countries in the region including India and Thailand show a stronger inclination toward higher trip frequency, reinforcing how travel is becoming embedded in everyday life rather than reserved for specific seasons.
Cost considerations play a key role in shaping this behavior. Budget remains the top decision driver for Vietnamese Gen Z (55%), closely aligned with other age cohorts (58%). Notably, 49% of Gen Z travelers are considering visiting lesser-known destinations to optimize travel costs, highlighting an exploratory mindset.
Experiences Take Priority Over Destinations
For Vietnamese Gen Z, travel is increasingly defined by what they want to do, rather than where they want to go. Respondents across Vietnam cite cultural exploration (48%) and culinary discovery (42%) as leading motivations. While experience remains central, relaxation continues to play an important role, with 58% including relaxation-related activities as part of their travel plans.
A rising trend among Vietnamese Gen Z is event-led travel, with 21% planning trips specifically to attend concerts, festivals, and sporting events. This reflects a growing “idol culture”, where fans travel to see their favorite artists, influencers, or teams in person – using travel as a way to connect more deeply with their personal interests and communities.
This signals a more deliberate approach to travel, where each trip is shaped by a clear set of experiences. Vietnamese Gen Z are planning their travels with clear intention, whether it is cultural immersion, attending live events, or simply recharging. As a result, destinations are chosen based on how well they align with that intent.
Mr. Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director, Vietnam, Agoda said: “Gen Z travelers are redefining what travel looks like today, with an intentional shift toward more frequent, flexible, and experience-led journeys that fit naturally into their everyday lives. At Agoda, we support that rhythm by offering a wide range of options across flights, accommodations, and activities, enabling travelers to plan trips that match both their pace and priorities, all while still accessing great value.”
With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda enables travelers to plan and combine every part of their journey in one place. Its platform supports different travel styles and preferences, making it easier to plan trips that fit individual pace and priorities. Discover more on Agoda’s mobile app or at Agoda.com.
