Report: People's travel spending will triple. Their needs will change significantly.

"As more and more people go on vacation—and do so more frequently—we're seeing a profound shift in who travels, what they expect, and how they plan their trips," says Christina Mühlenbein, managing director and partner at BCG and co-author of the report. "New demographics, digital habits, and rising expectations are rewriting the rules of the game," she adds.

When discussing trends shaping the future traveler, BCG first mentions Millennials and Generation Z, who have become the world's most important travelers. They plan more trips and spend more than older generations. They are characterized by digital savvy and social awareness.

Solo travel, once a niche phenomenon, will become increasingly important. Today, 18–39 percent of travelers say they travel alone. These are often younger tourists seeking cultural experiences, spiritual retreats, or wellness retreats instead of traditional beach vacations.

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"Bleisure" (from the English words business + leisure) isn't just a pandemic phenomenon. In China, India, Nigeria, and Saudi Arabia, over 70 percent of travelers plan to combine business and leisure trips. By comparison, in the US, UK, and Germany, the figure is only 15–30 percent.

A new perception of relaxation for tourists from around the world

In all countries surveyed, relaxation and spending time with loved ones remain the primary reasons for travel, but the way people relax is changing. While traditional beach holidays, urban adventures, and contact with nature remain popular, the BCG report indicates that motivations related to cultural exploration, health and wellness, as well as spirituality and religion, are playing an increasingly important role.