As important as cheap travel options, such as cheap airplane tickets, discount hotel rooms, and cheap vacation packages are to many of us, Millennials (people between the ages of 18 and 30) are freer than older employees with their companys money when traveling.
A recent study found that 37 percent of Millennials said they would spend their companys money on room service vs. only 21 percent of those between the ages of 46 and 65.
42 percent of Millennials said that they would use company money to pay for high end meals compared to only 26 percent of their older peers. They are also more likely to charge their companies for flight upgrades and alcohol.
This study was conducted between August 20th and September 12th by Harris Interactive and surveyed over 8,500 employed adults online in 24 countries.
Millennial traveler behavior is being closely monitored by hotels and airlines because they are projected to become the most influential and profitable travelers as they age.
The study found that Millennials travel much more for business and pleasure than travelers ages 31 to 45. Also American and Canadian Millennials travel much more frequently than their European counterparts.
Marriott Hotels and Resorts, Marriott Internationals largest brand with 600 hotels, recently kicked off a Travel Brilliantly marketing campaign which focuses on Millennials.
Hampton Hotels has introduced a Forever Young Initiative to appeal to Millennials. The chain is remodeling guest rooms, bathrooms, and exteriors to present a more modern look. Renovated common areas and rooms have more functional spaces and furniture, as well as more power outlets.
Millennials make widespread use of mobile devices to book business travel: 32 percent use a smartphone, with 20 percent using a tablet. Only 12 percent of those older than 45 used a smartphone with even fewer booking travel via a tablet.
Millennials are much more likely to sign up and use travel loyalty programs. Half found loyalty program an important consideration when booking flights and hotels.
They also readily share their displeasure. Younger travelers are quick to post negative reviews online, with 26 percent of those 34 and under saying they had posted a negative review over the past 12 months. Only 14 percent of their older peers reported doing the same. 80 percent of Millennials view travel reviews as either very or somewhat important when booking a trip.
Millennials are far more likely to mix business with pleasure that their older peers, according to the study. 62 percent said that they had extended a business trip into a personal vacation.
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