Global Travel Insights 2025

The Rise of the Self-Booking Explorer

May 29, 2025

(Updated June 19, 2026)

52% of global travelers now arrange trips independently, and 76% of those aged 18–34 book online. These insights reveal a shift from assisted bookings to self-directed travel driven by digital convenience, but with older travelers still valuing the trusted support of agencies.

Written by

Chi Bui

With a keen eye for market trends and a passion for creative strategy, Chi crafts compelling stories that help brands connect with global audiences more effectively.

In 2025, global travelers now prefer to plan and book their trips independently without relying on third-party help. According to TGM Global Travel Insights 2025, 52% of respondents say they organize travel on their own, with digital tools and platforms giving them greater control, flexibility, and speed (N=21000).

Key Takeaways

More than half of global travelers now prefer to arrange trips independently, showing growing comfort with self directed travel planning.
Online booking has become especially common among younger travelers, with 76% of those aged 18 to 34 booking through websites or online platforms (TGM Global Travel Insights 2025, N=21,000).
Travelers aged 25 to 34 are the most likely to organize trips without third party support.
Male travelers are slightly more likely than female travelers to complete bookings online.
Travelers aged 55 and over prefer booking trips through travel agencies and tour operators.

Self-Arranged, Digitally Booked: A New Norm for Younger Travelers

The rise of self-booking is driven by more than just tech access; it reflects a deeper demand for autonomy and control. According to TGM data, 54% of travelers aged 25–34 (N=5653) and 53% of those aged 18–24 (N=2779) prefer to arrange their trips independently, without third-party assistance.

Digital platforms now play a central role in this journey. When it comes to finalizing plans, 76% of travelers aged 18–34 (N=8432) complete their bookings via websites or online platforms, the highest rate among all age groups.

76% of travelers book travels via websites or online platforms

Male are slightly more inclined than female to make online bookings

Male travelers, in particular, are slightly more inclined toward this digital path—seeking convenience, speed, and access to transparent pricing. Overall, in these segments, booking is no longer a transaction; it’s a tailored, end-to-end experience defined by immediacy, transparency, and control.

Where Travel Agencies Still Hold Ground

The global trend leans digital, but travel agencies are far from obsolete. Among travelers aged 55 and over, traditional agents and tour operators remain a trusted part of the booking journey. In this group, over 30% still use offline or assisted methods (N=3654), seeking the assurance of expert guidance, bundled services, or in-person support.

This behavior is more common in regions with lower digital penetration, as well as among travelers who are less comfortable navigating online platforms. For agencies, this presents both a challenge and an opportunity: stay relevant by serving the right segment, with the right mix of service and support.

33% of travelers aged 55+ book trips via travel agencies and tour operators

Booking Is Changing, But So Are Expectations

The shift toward self-arranged travel doesn’t signal the end of travel agents. It signals a redefinition of value. Travelers today expect choice and flexibility, whether they’re clicking “book” themselves or walking into an agency.

For industry players, especially tour operators, online travel agencies, and local agencies, the challenge is clear: evolve the model. This may mean offering hybrid options, enhanced online experiences, or specialized services for those who still prefer guided support.

To build deeper audience understanding, explore how traveler profiles shift across age groups and segments.

Methodology

The TGM Global Travel Insights 2025 study is based on a large-scale quantitative survey conducted across 21 countries, targeting a representative sample of adults aged 18 to 55+. Designed to uncover global travel behavior trends and insights for 2025, the survey explores popular destinations, shifting booking habits, digital discovery channels, and experience preferences across key traveler segments.

Survey Methodology: Online interviews (CAWI – Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing)
Sample Size: 21,000 participants
Age Groups: 18–24, 25–34, 35–44, 45–54, 55+
Country Coverage: Australia, Brazil, Chile, China, Egypt, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Jordan, Netherlands, Poland, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, Thailand, UAE, UK, and the USA
Data Weighting: Results have been weighted to reflect regional demographics for accurate market representation.