Backpacking has seen a huge growth in popularity over the past few decades. While there is not yet data on how many people went backpacking in 2024, we can see the upward trend from 2007 to 2021. Around 6.6 million people went backpacking in the United States (US) in 2007 compared to 10.3 million people in 2021. This shows how much the popularity of backpacking has increased in just the US alone, so imagine how much it’s increased around the world.
It's no coincidence that this upward trend in backpacking has come during a time when Generation-Z has reached adulthood. Gen-Z is defined as people born between 1995 and 2012. This means they're in their teens and twenties today. There is a focus on sustainability, adventure and local culture within that generation, which has made them more enticed to go backpacking around the world.
Gen-Z is definitely doing things differently when it comes to backpacking, from being more sustainable on their travels to actively helping out the areas they visit. We will explore the unique Gen-Z backpacking quirks in this article that have revolutionised the activity of backpacking.
How Gen Z Backpacks
Tech-savvy
The most tech-savvy generation to have reached adulthood is without a doubt Gen-Z. Growing up around the most variation of digital devices has made the generation very digitally focused, so it’s only natural that this has bled over into backpacking culture. The instant access that iPhones provide, allows Gen-Z backpackers to enhance their travel experience. Having apps for almost everything these days, you can book flights, choose accommodations and find local hotspots all within a few minutes. Back in the day, all of this could have taken days to organise.
Sustainability Focus
Gen Z is considered to be much more eco-friendly and sustainability-focused compared to previous generations. They like to place a stronger emphasis on ethical practices, as they ensure that they purchase naturally sourced goods and find travel options that won’t have an adverse impact on the planet. If they’re backpacking around a country, they are more likely to ride a bicycle than a motorbike as it will be better for the environment. Avoiding places that exploit animals or local communities is a big part of being a Gen-Z backpacker.
Immersive Experiences
Gen-Z generally want to immerse themselves in local culture while they go backpacking, as they try out the local cuisines, interact with residents and support local businesses. These immersive experiences need to be authentic for Gen-Z rather than forced, as they want to participate properly in local activities. This craving often leads them off the beaten path and allows them to find hidden gems while backpacking.
Budget Conscious
Budgeting has become a huge thing for travellers, especially for Gen-Z. They often seek out the best deals for their backpacking journeys, but this doesn’t mean that they skimp out on quality. Seeking cheaper hostels and airlines are very popular choices. However, they still want places that offer unique experiences for their travel. There are many apps where backpackers can find good deals for their accommodation and travel, such as Hostelworld and Skyscanner.
Solo Travel
Traveling solo has soared in popularity within the last decade with more Gen-Zers having the confidence to leave their family and friends behind to seek out new experiences on their own. The possibility of self discovery and independence is a mouth-watering prospect for young travellers, which is why they take their backpacks around the world solo and take part in wonderful adventures. They can hike, scuba dive and explore remote regions as part of their solo travel journey.
Social Media Influence
Social media has had a huge influence on Gen-Z backpacking choices. The destinations they go to often go viral on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, which leads to more travellers wanting to make the journey there. The activities that can be done during the backpacking expeditions can also go viral on social media platforms. Sharing your backpacking experience with others online has become very popular for Gen-Z, as they want to show off what they have done during their backpacking journey.
Backpacking Attire
The outfits worn by Gen-Z backpackers differs from the generation previously. Millennials will choose to wear attire like cargo trousers, hiking boots and thick fleeces, whereas Gen-Z tend to take a different approach. Men's streetwear seems to be the most popular backpacking attire among Gen-Z males, as they prioritise comfort over protection.
Gen Z Backpackers Final Thoughts
Backpacking's rapid popularity growth is a reflection of Gen-Z's fundamental ideals of self-reliance, genuineness and global citizenship. They represent a generation that is not just travelling but also actively influencing travel culture with their embrace of solo travel, frugal discovery and tech-driven navigation. Backpacking has emerged as a way for Gen-Z to create a wider cultural influence, expressing a desire to travel sustainably and to leave a positive impact on the globe while prioritising experiences over material belongings.
WRITTEN BY
After completing a University degree in Journalism, Darcy Fowler has dedicated a lot of time to travelling around the world and experiencing a variety of cultures. Darcy is determined to provide interesting and insightful content with the hope of inspiring others.