A study of 2,000 UK adults who jet off abroad showed that nearly a third of Gen Z and Millennials would rather lose their passport than their mobile phone while on holiday
A recent survey of 2,000 globetrotters showed that almost one third of younger travellers would rather lose their passport than be parted from their mobile phone while on a sunshine break.
In sharp contrast, only a small 7% of Gen X and a slightly higher 11% of Baby Boomers would prefer to misplace their passport instead of their mobile device.
Today’s tech-savvy youths appear to be on their devices even when soaking up the sun abroad. The study found those aged between 18-27 are glued to their phones for an average of 89 minutes daily; and admit to using their phones even more on holiday than at home.
On the flip side, older generations strive to put their phones down whilst on vacation. Those born during the Gen X era (1965-1980) use their gadgets for just 47 minutes per day and Boomers (1946-1964) only for around half an hour each day while away.
The poll also highlighted that a 31% of holidaymakers get slapped with additional roaming charges, facing an average fee of ÂŁ50. With that, an overwhelming 77% believe mobile networks should offer them complimentary internet during their travel adventures.
Lewis Henry from iD Mobile, which conducted the research and offers free roaming in 50 different destinations, commented on the findings: “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 shows snapping pics is the top use for phones on holiday, with 54% capturing memories. Messaging home ranks second at 46%, while 44% use their devices to navigate. Weather checks are also common, with 42% keeping an eye on forecasts, and 29% scrolling through social feeds.
Holidaymakers also use their gadgets for finding tourist spots (34%), booking stays (32%), and tracking bags (25%). A significant 35% store essential travel docs like boarding passes on their phones.
Interestingly, 20% of respondents are considering AI for future travel plans, with 9% already using it. This tech-savvy trend is more pronounced among younger folks, with 19% of Millennials and 20% of Gen Zs embracing AI assistance.
AI has become a trusty sidekick with 34% tapping into its power to pick out must-see sights, 32% using it to book their stays and another 30% getting top-notch accommodation recommendations from it.
Meanwhile, nearly a third (29%) have found AI indispensable for keeping their holiday spends on track, and an overwhelming 70% say they plan on letting AI lend a hand in future holiday prep.
The recent OnePoll survey also shed light on the snapshot habits of holidaymakers, revealing that adults typically snap up an average of 11 photos per day while away – adding up to a hefty 77 snapshots over a seven-day getaway.
While Boomers have a penchant for capturing iconic landmarks, dominating at 28%, Gen Z and Millennials are veering off the beaten path, favouring nature shots above all, clocking in at 59% and 39% respectively.
But for Gen Z, it’s not just about picturesque landscapes; they’re clicking away at food pics too at a whopping 54%, and almost half (46%) are into taking selfies while hanging out at bars and restaurants.
Lewis Henry from iD Mobile weighs in, saying, “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.”
“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.”
