The student travel industry is undergoing a renewed energy, shaped by new trends, emerging destinations, and a pent-up enthusiasm for exploration. Between the 2023 Student Travel Business Barometer and discussions among industry experts at the annual SYTA Conference, we’re seeing clear trends emerge for the year ahead.
Here’s a look at where the future of student travel is headed and how educators, planners, and operators can navigate the new landscape.
Destinations on the Rise
Student travelers and their families are increasingly looking beyond traditional hotspots, favoring unique experiences and destinations that reflect the growing diversity of interests.
Japan, Portugal, Greece, Africa: These destinations are gaining traction for their mix of history, culture, and modernity. Japan’s dynamic cities and serene countryside offer a blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge innovation. Meanwhile, Portugal’s coastal charm and rich maritime history are captivating student groups. Greece continues to charm with its ancient ruins and island escapes, while countries in Africa are emerging as destinations for wildlife and cultural immersion.
Australia and New Zealand: Australia’s ski opportunities and Indigenous experiences are attracting attention, as are New Zealand’s Maori cultural tours and eco-friendly adventures. Both countries prioritize sustainability, making them perfect for environmentally conscious groups.
Canada: Indigenous experiences are a focal point here as well, especially in regions like Quebec and British Columbia. Canada’s vast landscapes and inclusive cultural offerings provide endless options for student travel.
Europe: While ever-popular, Europe is experiencing growing pains as it manages the challenges of overtourism. Receptive operators are key to navigating new regulations such as nominative ticketing, and uncovering lesser-visited gems like Slovenia and Switzerland.
Changing Student Travel Trends
The post-COVID travel landscape has shifted student preferences and group dynamics in notable ways:
Longer Trips and Larger Groups: Students are embarking on longer adventures with larger groups, speaking to increased demand.
Increased Allergy Requests: Educators are seeing a rise in dietary restrictions, possibly due to reduced exposure during lockdowns. Advance communication with destinations and dining establishments is crucial.
Demand for Sustainability: Across the board, the push for greener travel is reshaping itineraries, with a focus on low-impact activities, eco-friendly accommodations/motorcoaches, and smaller, localized tours.
Mental Health Awareness: Increased anxiety among students necessitates robust health and safety plans. Providing clear communication and reliable resources can ensure students feel secure.
“Bucket List” Adjustments: As schools reschedule trips delayed by the pandemic, traditional destinations like Washington, D.C., are experiencing high demand. This presents an opportunity to explore less-visited locations and approach popular sites in a fresh way.
Overtourism Awareness: With many destinations grappling with overtourism, respectful travel practices and thoughtful itineraries are more important than ever.
Looking Ahead
Despite rising costs, particularly in airfare, the demand for student travel remains strong. Parents, teachers, and students continue to prioritize travel, often making sacrifices in other areas to ensure these transformative experiences happen.
This enthusiasm is driving growth beyond pre-pandemic levels, affirming that student travel is here to stay. To sustain this momentum, the industry must adapt to shifting priorities, including the demand for sustainability and mental health considerations, while exploring emerging destinations.
This story originally appeared in the January 2025 edition of Teach & Travel magazine.
