By Julia Sassaman
Learn to travel efficiently in the digital age as a Gen Z traveler.
Young adults navigate with a map. Ivan S. Pexels.
Gen Z spends an average of nine hours on screens every day, so why not put that time toward smarter trip preparation? From available discounts to free housing and helpful apps, this guide includes 10 practical tips designed for Gen Z, by Gen Z. These tips utilize social media and technology to make the most of your travels while saving money and maximizing experiences.
My qualifications? I recently wrapped up four months of travel across 12 countries, learning from my successes and mistakes along the way.
1. Social Media
Social media folder on iPhone. Bastian Riccardi. Pexels.
TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest are great tools for finding the best spots and hidden gems. The algorithm tends to promote popular tourist destinations, so for better cultural immersion, try targeted searches using the words "local," "authentic" or "traditional." More often than not, you will come across recommendations from seasoned travelers or local businesses rather than paid influencers or sponsored promotions.
2. Online Forums
Person typing on a laptop. EVG Kowalievska. Pexels.
You may not personally know anyone in the places you are visiting, so the internet is a great tool to learn from other travelers’ experiences. Online forums like Reddit were especially helpful for me while traveling, whether I was looking for the best nightlife, restaurants, hostels or practical tips on local transportation and seasonal packing.
Facebook groups are another great way to connect with travelers digitally. Young Travelers Network and Girls Who Travel are just two options available to Gen Z and female travelers. Take everything with a grain of salt, though: these are just the opinions of strangers. If there is a place or activity you’re set on visiting and you spot negative feedback online, dig a little deeper before deciding if it's still the right choice for you.
3. Youth Discounts
Visitors at the Vatican Museums in Rome, Italy. Fatih Altuntas. Pexels.
Gen Z has access to countless youth and student discounts that make travel more affordable. Current students should bring their student ID everywhere because museums, historical sites and public transportation systems often offer free or discounted admission just for having one. If you’re between 16 and 30, some airlines have programs or discounts to cut travel costs, freeing up more of your budget for actual experiences.
StudentBeans or UNiDAYS unlock savings on transportation, housing, entertainment and more in over 100 countries. If you’re traveling in Europe and under 27, the Eurail Youth Pass discounts tickets by 25% and can be worth it for longer trips.
4. Public Transportation
Person using the Google Maps app. Dennis Leinarts. Pexels.
Public transportation can feel intimidating in a new place, especially since reliability varies across cities. However, it is the most budget-friendly way to get around when compared to expensive rideshare services. Google Maps provides real-time transit directions and allows you to download city maps for offline use or when cell service is limited. Before your trip, familiarize yourself with local transportation options and payment methods by downloading the local transit app.
For travel between countries, Rome2Rio and Omio are good tools for comparing bus, train and flight options. To secure inexpensive flights, use Google Flights for planning and book well in advance when possible. Once you have found the best fares, book directly through the airline instead of third-party websites for dependability, savings and airline rewards.
5. Google Translate
Vietnamese directional sign. Phuong Khanh. Pexels.
Google Translate is crucial when you don’t speak the local language. Make the most of its features, like scanning signs in an unfamiliar language or using voice-to-text, to quickly translate conversations. Download language packs ahead of time so you can use them offline, and don’t forget to learn the basics such as “hello,” “goodbye,” “please” and “thank you” before arrival.
6. Currency Converters
Two backpackers waiting for a train. Ketut Subiyanto. Pexels.
During my travels, a currency converter became one of my most-used tools as I moved from place to place. The XE Currency Converter app and the built-in currency converter on the Apple Calculator were especially helpful. If you’re sticking to a tight budget, a currency converter helps to track spending in your home currency compared to the local one.
7. Hostel Recommendations
Woman packing in a hostel bunk room. George Pak. Pexels.
Hostels are typically more cost-effective than hotels or short-term rentals, plus they’re a great way to meet people. Finding the right one can feel overwhelming if you don’t know the area, so here’s where to start.
Begin by searching for hostels on TikTok, Instagram and Reddit. There you will find photos, videos and firsthand accounts from other travelers to help locate a place that fits your criteria. Next, check Hostelworld for available hostels with reviews from guests. Hostelling International is another option and a UNESCO-recognized resource for sustainable hostels, events and experiences worldwide.
8. Free Housing in Exchange for Pet and House Sitting
Tabby cat. Dagmar Klauzova. Pexels.
Travelers can easily drain their budget on housing; even inexpensive hostels add up over time. For Gen Z travelers looking to cut costs and find something homier, pet-sitting and house-sitting might be the answer.
Sites like TrustedHousesitters can match you with hosts for specific dates and locations. This option is best for long-term travelers 21 and up, since the starter plan currently includes a $129 annual membership fee. If you’re under 21, try MindMyHouse, HouseCarers or one of the many region-specific alternatives. Housesitters Guide is a great resource for tips and advice if you’re interested in house sitting.
9. Know When to Put the Phone Down
Group of people photographing mountain scenery. cottonbro studio. Pexels.
Although it is tempting to lean on AI and social media for every travel decision, it is important to recognize when to put the tech down. When you’re traveling, gain a more immersive travel experience by asking locals for recommendations or directions instead of a chatbot or an app. To avoid overpriced tourist traps, let yourself organically wander into local spots you wouldn’t have found otherwise.
Bringing a physical Polaroid, disposable, digital or film camera is another good way to stay present. You’ll come home with unique photos and plenty of phone-free memories.
10. Catalyst Planet Travel Guides
Catalyst Planet logo.
When experiencing a new city, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of activities and places to explore. To combat this planning fatigue, Catalyst Planet regularly publishes travel guides on global destinations such as Tokyo, Rwanda, Patagonia, Mexico City, Morocco and Bali. Use these expertly curated guides to learn about local culture, cuisine and activities before booking your trip. To stay updated on travel recommendations, follow our TikTok, Instagram, X and YouTube.
Julia Sassaman
Julia is a fourth-year student at the University of Michigan studying political science and international studies. She recently studied abroad in Geneva, Switzerland, researching post-conflict tourism and international human rights law. After graduation, she hopes to move to Europe to pursue a career centered on global human rights. In her free time, she enjoys painting, baking, journaling, and reading.