Gen Z Canadians opting for booze-free vacations: Study

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Bon voyage, booze!

Those days of unforgettable late nights and forgettable mornings after could be a thing of the past as young Canadians are changing how they travel.

Generation Z Canucks are passing on the margaritas, sangria, and pina coladas in favour of alcohol-free experiences while vacationing, according to a new report.

A study — featuring 1,500 Canadians between the ages of 18 and 25, and conducted by Flight Centre Travel Group — found that an overwhelming 83% of Gen Z are open to alcohol-free vacations.

Young travellers are more interested in immersing themselves in the environment they are heading off to than partying the way previous generations did.

Nearly three-quarters (70%) of respondents prioritize sightseeing and city activities, and more than two-thirds (68%) emphasize cultural exploration.

Only 21% of those surveyed indicated a preference for clubbing on holiday.

There are several reasons Gen Z travellers are seeking more diverse, adventurous, well-rounded trips over stifling hangovers.

The top one, though, is it’s much easier to keep safe while sober.

Siobhan Detkavich, a chef, TV host and Gen Z traveller, told The Toronto Sun that while travelling across Europe with her best friend at the age of 19, she was introduced to the “big city club scene,” which was a huge wake-up call.

“It was after encountering multiple creepy men in different countries who just gave off predatory vibes that my mindset really changed in terms of keeping myself hyperaware of my surroundings and just how far I was willing to let myself go,” she said.

“I prefer sober travelling, as it opens so many more doors for avenues of adventure and gives you the opportunity to live in the moment with each trip,” the 25-year-old added.

Avoiding unsafe situations was tops on the list, with 66% using that logic for staying booze-free, while  55% said they would prefer spending money on experiences than alcohol.

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Another 53% said a boozy night spoils the following day, so they would rather avoid that.

More than one-quarter (28%) also factored in social media and feared something embarrassing about them could be posted for all to see.

“You can never erase what is on social media, and I want people to remember the characteristics and traits about myself that are unique and honest — and not know me only by some wild night out,” Detkavich noted.