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With May’s family-focused month on the horizon, the way families plan trips is shifting. Younger family members—including Gen Z—are increasingly steering destination research and shaping itineraries, and multigenerational, experience-driven overseas trips are becoming more popular. Hotels.com used data analysis to spot this Gen Z–led trend and is highlighting Tokyo, New York and Shanghai as go-to picks. To make planning easier for Korean travelers, the site added a multi-currency feature and is running a May sale promotion.
Photo-worthy spots, hands-on cultural experiences and buzzy food scenes are now the anchors of family itineraries—often discovered and shared by Gen Z on social media. That marks a move away from parent-led planning toward trips centered on lively, shareable experiences everyone can enjoy. In its Unpack ’25 travel outlook, Hotels.com calls out the rise of “One-Click Trips,” where people book travel after seeing social content. The report found 68% of domestic respondents would book an entire trip based on something they saw online. Family recommendations (35%) and social media influencers or celebrities (13%) were the top factors shaping travel decisions.
Hotels.com Korea’s data shows that 75% of travel demand during the May holiday period was for overseas trips—evidence that families are increasingly looking abroad for May getaways. About 70% of family and group travelers are planning international travel. Short-haul destinations still lead demand, and Asia remains a favorite for Korean family travelers: searches for Japan jumped 28%, boosting its status as a top family destination, while interest in longer-haul trips also rose, with searches for the U.S. up 12%.
Booking patterns for May stays reveal that 20% of reservations were made 15–30 days before travel—the largest share—followed by 19% booked 31–60 days out. That suggests Korean families plan a few weeks ahead but keep schedules flexible. Reflecting that mix of planning and spontaneity, Hotels.com spotlights Tokyo, New York and Shanghai as experience-rich destinations Gen Z is driving for family travel this May.
Tokyo blends subculture and city exploration, with youth-led trends reshaping how visitors experience the city. Families can dive into Gen Z–friendly moments—from gyaru-style streets in Harajuku and vintage-hunter haunts in Shimokitazawa to themed cafés in Shibuya and iconic stops like Tokyo Tower. The food scene is equally varied: think savory monjayaki followed by cult-favorite puddings and soufflés—great for sharing across generations. The Capitol Hotel Tokyu, near the Imperial Palace, is a recommended family pick thanks to its location, roomy accommodations and complimentary stays for children.
New York keeps evolving under the influence of digital trends, making it a dynamic family destination. Kids and parents alike can explore Central Park and Manhattan’s landmarks, snap iconic photos at the Manhattan Bridge in DUMBO, or wander SoHo’s boutique and concept stores for something offbeat. From Broadway shows and Fifth Avenue shopping to classic New York pizza, bagels and crowd-pleasing desserts like banana pudding, the city’s food and entertainment options suit every generation.
The Chatwal, in the Unbound Collection by Hyatt, located near Times Square and Broadway, is a family-friendly choice—offering spacious rooms, professional childcare services and connecting rooms for larger groups.
Shanghai’s mix of historic riverfronts and a modern skyline has made it a hotspot for Gen Z–driven, photo-first travel. Families can stroll tree-lined boulevards and frame cinematic shots at the Bund, Oriental Pearl Tower and Yu Garden. As interest grows in influencer-style photo spots and curated photo routes, Gen Z is increasingly calling the shots on family itineraries. Shanghai also serves up a wide culinary range—from shengjianbao (pan-fried buns), hot pot and lamb skewers to trendy desserts like crepe-style “towel” cakes—offering flavors that appeal across ages.
The Okura Garden Hotel Shanghai, located in the city center, offers free stays for children and a variety of dining options—making it a comfortable pick for families.
The rise of Gen Z–led family travel shows just how much social media now shapes everything from destination choice to on-the-ground experiences. Travelers are moving beyond passive sightseeing to seek participatory, shareable experiences as the main attraction. With more families eyeing international travel for May, customized destinations and flexible booking systems that cater to multiple generations are more important than ever. Hotels.com’s data indicates travelers are researching detailed experiences during planning while also prioritizing flexible schedules.
To better support May family travel demand, Hotels.com launched a multi-currency feature on April 15 that lets Korean travelers view prices and pay in their preferred currency. Hotels.com is also running its Pack & Go sale now through May 25, offering members 25% or more off selected hotels at home and abroad.
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