How can hotels attract Generation Z? (A complete guide with the Adotel approach)

The new era of travel has begun — are you ready to embrace it? Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is becoming one of the most influential consumer groups in the tourism industry. Growing up with technology, this generation has precise, digital, and experience-driven expectations that are unlike any generation before them.
Interesting statistic: Generation Z has a global purchasing power of over \$143 billion and makes up about 40% of all consumers. Additionally, 65% of them consider “traveling and seeing the world” to be the most important way to spend their money.

Why is Generation Z important for the growth of your hotel?

This isn’t just a topic for the future — Generation Z is already shaping market behavior. 66% of them took at least one leisure trip last year. 86% consider travel to be part of their identity. 82% prefer to choose accommodations that offer “experience,” not just a place to sleep. This is not a temporary shift; it’s a fundamental transformation in travel behavior.

What does Generation Z want, and what can you offer them?

1. Always online, always connected.

For Generation Z, digital convenience is non-negotiable. Everything is done through mobile — from research and booking to check-in and leaving reviews. 57% say that delays in receiving booking confirmations or cancellations after payment are unjustifiable. 78% expect hotel websites to be fast, responsive, and mobile-friendly, and they want direct purchases from hotels to come with added benefits. adotel Solution: By connecting to the adotel channel manager and using the online reservation engine on your website, you can instantly provide booking confirmations to your customers without human intervention. Hotel rates and availability are updated in real-time.

2. Experience-focused, not just destination-focused

Generation Z is not looking for just a stay; they’re after stories, Instagram-worthy content, and local experiences. 65% are seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences. They care twice as much as regular travelers about attractive interior design and special amenities. adotel Solution: Use the Edotel online reservation engine to define a variety of travel packages on your website. Don’t limit all offers and promotions just to travel agencies.

3. Social media is their travel guide.

Traditional advertising no longer has an impact. Generation Z makes travel decisions after watching a TikTok video or an Instagram post. 53% have chosen a destination after seeing it on social media. 40% use social media as a search engine instead of Google.

Adotel Solution: Automatically send messages to guests requesting feedback and encourage social media sharing. A satisfied guest can be your best brand ambassador.

4. Value-driven decision-making.

Generation Z cares about sustainability and the environment. If your hotel isn’t green, they’ll easily pass it by. 63% say sustainability influences their choice of accommodation. 56% are willing to pay more for eco-friendly lodging.
Adotel Solution: Display your sales policies consistently and transparently across all booking channels with the help of the Adotel channel manager.

5. Digital payment and contactless check-in are essential.

For Generation Z, speed and digitalization at every step are crucial — from payment to check-in. 74% prefer digital or contactless payments. 63% are more attracted to hotels where online booking is easy or comes with incentives.
Adotel Solution: To retain these customers, plan events tailored to their interests and create attractive stay offers for those occasions.

summary

Generation Z is a smart, curious, and experience-driven traveler. They only engage with brands that understand their digital language and values. By modernizing your hotel’s digital infrastructure, optimizing the online experience, and creating unique experiences, you can not only connect with Generation Z but also stay ahead of the competition in the market.
At Adotel, we help you easily connect with Generation Z, increase direct bookings, and create an experience that leaves a lasting impression. Ready to attract Gen Z guests? Get a demo now and start your hotel’s digital transformation today.