TGM Global Travel Insights 2025

The popularity of DIY planning

Globally, travelers are becoming their own travel agents.

As travelers grow more confident and digitally empowered, the preference for do-it-yourself (DIY) travel planning is becoming increasingly prominent. TGM Global Travel Insights 2025 report founds that over half of global tourists prefer to arrange their own travel.

This trend is most pronounced in Europe, where 62% of travelers opt for self-planning. The Netherlands leads the region, with the share of DIY travelers nearly seven times higher than those relying solely on travel agencies.

Still, the desire for flexibility doesn’t mean travelers are abandoning professional guidance. Around 30% prefer a hybrid model, blending self-planning with support from travel agencies.

Download TGM Global Travel Insights 2025 for free to access detailed data on traveler behaviors and preferences, from destination interest to booking trends.

Budget Is Still King in APAC

Affordability continues to be the leading factor for leisure lodging choices across the Asia-Pacific region. In APAC, 43% of respondents prefer budget accommodation, which is higher than the global average.

Choosing lower-cost options doesn’t mean travelers are compromising on experience. Instead, it reflects a practical mindset, one shaped by careful spending and smart, online trip planning. This trend is strongest among the youngest (18–24) and older (55+) age groups, who are more than twice as likely to pick budget stays over premium ones.

Similar to Latin America, where budget stays are also popular, APAC travelers focus heavily on cost. However, they show less interest in alternative stays like villas or condos. This may suggest that APAC travel is more urban-focused, with a preference for hotels and hostels rather than private rentals.

Download APAC Travel Insights Report 2025 for free to explore key trends, preferences, and expectations, clearly segmented by age and gender.

Travel Websites Remain Europe’s Go-To Resource

European travelers continue to favor trusted, information-rich sources for travel inspiration, prioritizing substance over speed. According to our data, 26% turn to travel websites first when planning trips. A travel website isn’t just a tool. It’s a source of clarity, confidence, and inspiration, helping turn travel ideas into action with reliable information and guidance.

While Facebook and YouTube are still popular, they play a secondary role. In contrast, social media leads travel discovery in MENA and LATAM, with Facebook and YouTube often outpacing websites.

Download the free Europe Travel Insights Report 2025 to uncover how European consumers seek, plan, and get inspired

LATAM Travelers Are Moving Toward Online Booking Platforms

According to TGM Global Travel Insights 2025, 74% of Latin Americans now book trips online (N=2,000). Online booking becomes even more common among younger travelers, with usage rising beyond 80%.

Older travelers in LATAM also continue using online booking platforms. Around 63% of travelers aged 55+ still book trips online (TGM Global Travel Insights 2025, N=332). In contrast, Europe shows a different travel booking habit among older consumers. Traditional travel agencies still remain a familiar option for many older travelers in Europe.

Digital booking already plays a major role across LATAM travel planning. Better mobile booking experiences and faster checkout flows may help businesses connect with more travelers across the region. Regional payment options along with localized experiences also matter across many LATAM markets.

Download the free LATAM Travel Insights Report 2025 for more data on travel plans, booking habits, along with traveler preferences.

Many MENA Travelers Prefer Regional Trips This Summer

Many MENA travelers still prefer destinations closer to home. According to TGM Global Travel Insights 2025, 34% of MENA respondents plan to travel within the Middle East (N = 5,000). Travelers aged 55+ show even stronger interest, with 40% planning trips within the region (N=279).

Local destinations continue gaining attention across MENA. Familiar culture, shorter travel time, along with trusted experiences all contribute to these travel preferences. For businesses, stronger demand for regional travel may create more opportunities for local tourism campaigns and destination offers built around convenience.

Download the free MENA Travel Insights Report 2025 to explore how travelers across the region are planning their next trips.