A staggering survey involving 2,000 wanderlust-filled individuals has revealed a generational divide when it comes to tech reliance abroad, with nearly a third of younger travellers opting to keep their mobile phone over their passport during their sun-seeking escapades.
In stark contrast, the data highlighted that a mere 7% of Generation X and a marginally higher 11% of Baby Boomers would choose their phones over passports, indicating significant differences in travel priorities between the generations.
The research showed that those aged 18-27 indulge in an average of 89 minutes of screen time daily on holiday even more than they do back home.
Conversely, older holidaymakers appear to embrace digital detoxes, with Gen X averaging a modest 47 minutes and Baby Boomers dedicating a scant half hour per day to screen time while on a getaway.
Further findings from the poll showed that 31% of tourists are hit with extra roaming costs, forking out an average sum of £50, meaning it’s not suprise that 77% think mobile operators should provide complimentary internet access on their travels.
Lewis Henry from iD Mobile, who conducted the study and offer free roaming across 50 destinations, said: “You shouldn’t have to go without your normal creature comforts when on holiday. Our research found millions of adults rely on their phones while they’re away just as much as they do at home.”
“In many cases, they’re even more important – while you may not necessarily need to scroll social media from your sunbed, getting directions or weather updates could be really handy. Just because you’re abroad doesn’t mean you should need to worry about additional costs of staying connected.”
The survey showed that taking photos was the most popular use for phones on holiday, with 54% using them to capture memories but messaging home comes in second at 46%, while 44% use their devices for navigation.
Checking the weather is also a common activity, with 42% keeping an eye on forecasts, and 29% scrolling through social media feeds. Holidaymakers also utilise their gadgets for locating tourist attractions (34%), making bookings (32%), and tracking luggage (25%). A significant 35% store essential travel documents like boarding passes on their phones.
Interestingly, 20% of those surveyed are considering utilising AI for future travel plans, with 9% already doing so. This trend towards tech-savviness is more pronounced among younger generations, with 19% of Millennials and 20% of Gen Zs embracing AI assistance.
AI has become a reliable companion with 34% tapping into its capabilities to identify must-see sights, 32% using it to make their bookings and another 30% receiving top-tier accommodation recommendations from it.
Additionally, nearly a third (29%) have found AI invaluable for managing their holiday budgets, and a staggering 70% say they plan on letting AI assist in future holiday preparations.
The latest OnePoll also showed the photo-taking tendencies of holidaymakers, uncovering that adults typically capture around 11 photos daily during their trips – totalling a substantial 77 images across a week-long vacation.
While the older generation, Boomers, are snapping up shots of iconic landmarks with a preference rate of 28%, the younger crowd, Gen Z and Millennials, are charting a different course. Nature scenes are the top pick for these age groups, with an impressive 59% of Gen Z and 39% of Millennials choosing to focus their lenses on the great outdoors.
But for the tech-savvy Gen Z, it’s not just about the scenic views; they’re also avidly photographing their culinary experiences, with a significant 54% indulging in food photography. Additionally, nearly half (46%) are keen on taking selfies while enjoying the social scene at bars and restaurants.
Lewis Henry added: “There are so many things we take for granted now, that our phones give us. From being able to capture and edit photos and videos of our trips, to using AI as a travel guide, or even just entertaining us during transfers, phones are critical to the enjoyment of our holidays.”
He also points out the advantages of eSIM technology for travellers: “eSIMs are now a great way of avoiding extra charges, conveniently allowing customers to switch to another network provider in a click for the chance to benefit from a better value roaming deal and make savings while they’re abroad.”
“Of course, it’s good to look up every now and again to get a glimpse of where you’re staying – as ever, it’s all about finding the right balance.”