Gen Zs & Millennials Still Travelling Despite Being Low On Cash. Here's How They Do It
Travelling doesn't always have to cost a bomb!
Published for HSBC, 19 Jan 2024, 10:49 AM
It seems like everyone is travelling these days, amirite?
From buddies updating their feeds with travel vlogs, to colleagues flying overseas for spontaneous week-long holidays, you're probably used to seeing people you know going on vacations every other week.
However, with the rising cost of living and growing financial responsibilities, it may get you wondering how most of them are affording all these trips. Plus, it's no secret that Malaysians are kinda strapped for cash, with a 2021 survey showing that 45% of youths and young adults spend exactly or more than what they earn.
If you're curious how they're doing it, here's what these Malaysians who love travelling had to say:
1. "I spend the majority of my travel budget on necessities, which, in most cases, is flight tickets!"
"Beyond that, I try my best to save on everything else. For instance, you don't have to eat at sit-down restaurants all the time, 'cause convenience stores overseas tend to have good, cheap meals.
"Depending on where I go, I also list out my priorities for the particular trip, whether it's food, activities, drinks, or a convenient stay. From there, I decide where to spend on, and where I can save."
- Jimmy, 29 years old
2. "I try to save on accommodation when travelling and opt for capsule hotels"
"Since I travel on my own most of the time, I like to go with capsule hotels, 'cause they're small, cosy, and you get your own private space with a bed.
"Plus, when it comes to vacations, I feel like I just need a place to stay. Why would I want to spend half my holiday budget on accommodation?"
- Timothy, 25 years old
3. "TikTok is my travel guide that is super fun, easy, and free. Trust meeee!"
"TikTok has helped me save so much during my travels, 'cause I learn from other travellers on how to find cheap deals, discounts, and freebies.
"Not only does it help me save, TikTok also guides me to properly plan my vacation by suggesting the best places and trendy spots to visit.
"I've actually managed to discover and plan affordable trips to unique places just based on trends I've found on TikTok!"
- Anith, 24 years old
4. "I usually travel with a group of friends and family, but I'm really picky about who I vacation with"
"I love to travel with certain friends and family members who are really good with planning and budgeting. That way, I won't have to worry about overspending.
"Usually, we go in a big group and stay at Airbnbs, instead of hotels, to save cost. We also try to look for group activities that are either free or don't cost a lot.
- Kitna, 24 years old
5. "Who says last minute planning is a bad thing? It's actually a thing for us Gen Zs."
"Last minute planning for vacations has helped me save a lot of money.
"It may sound counter-intuitive, and even scary, especially if you're not used to being so spontaneous. But with travel apps, I usually manage to find places to stay, and the best part is that they often come with last-minute deals.
"Exactly, last minute is our thing, we've been slaying this method since uni days. And if I don't happen to find a deal that's worth it, I can always move on and wait for the next better opportunity."
- Kaita, 24 years old
6. "It may take some getting used to, but it's always more worth it to travel like the locals do"
"Most of the time, this means taking public transportation! For some places, their subway system is pretty good, but for others, I end up going on their buses or trains.
"While it takes a lot of research, this allows me to really save on fuel, parking, and expensive taxi fares.
"Public transport is the way to go, trust me!
"Plus, the whole aim during vacations is to relax, right? Thanks to public transport, I actually get to sit back and enjoy the scenery of the places I visit, just like the locals do."
Feeling the itch to travel too? The good news is that Gen Zs and millennials can save more when travelling by using the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card!
The HSBC TravelOne Credit Card allows cardholders to enjoy instant reward points redemption from up to 17 airlines* and four hotel groups with 20,000 chain properties through the HSBC Malaysia mobile banking app — a first of its kind in Malaysia.
In an effort to be accessible and inclusive, the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card also features a vertical inclusion card that has a blind notch at one end. In other words, this tactile solution allows cardholders to correctly orient the card when using it.
*Terms and conditions apply
Perfect for all types of travellers, the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card offers enticing features that will make your trip hassle-free:
1. Earn accelerated reward points on all foreign currency spend, local travel, and dining spend
2. Tap into instant reward redemptions on a range of airline and hotel partners around the world
3. Enjoy travel privileges like complimentary travel insurance coverage, airport lounge access, and more
4. Split purchases across a range of flexible tenures that suit your needs
Besides enjoying travel privileges, the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card also offers you other benefits that make your travel experience more convenient and secure
Booking through Agoda will give you up to 15% instant discount on worldwide hotels! This offer is valid until 29 February.
Plus, the card comes with ID Theft Protection and eCommerce Protector to safeguard you from identity theft and online fraud. These benefits are designed to help you travel with peace of mind and save money.Now, you can travel with confidence and freedom with the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card.
Ready to plan your next travel adventure? Find out more about the HSBC TravelOne Credit Card and unlock travel freedom today.
