What Do Different Generations Want in their Hotel Stay?

Hotel guests span multiple generations, each of which are shaped by different travel habits and expectations from their stay. From tech-savvy Gen Z’s to the comfort-loving Silent Generation, understanding broad generational preferences can help hotels and B&B’s with everything from room design, food and drink availability and service styles to suit all.

So, what do different generations actually want from their hotel stay?

The Silent Generation (Born Before 1945)

The Silent Generation may not make up a large part of those likely to travel, but for those that still do, their sole priority tends to be relaxation, and making the most of their retirement time during a hotel stay – so comfort is key.

Simple accommodations are very important for the Silent Generation. Ensuring great accessibility is vital to make sure their guest experience is not compromised in any way.

Baby Boomers (Born Between 1946 and 1964)

Baby Boomers are more likely to have the time and spending power to travel more frequently, and often value quality when it comes to a hotel stay. Create an inviting atmosphere with a good mattress, quality bedding, and a bathroom that feels both practical and polished.

Baby Boomers also tend to place high value on personal interaction and welcoming hospitality experiences. They are more likely to appreciate a warm greeting on arrival, recommendations from hotel staff and easy-to-reach workers (should anything go wrong during their stay).

Hotels looking to appeal to Baby Boomers should focus on comfort, simple service and clear communication. A straightforward booking system, for example, can still be highly valuable alongside other technology-based options.

Generation X (Born Between 1965 and 1980)

Those in Generation X are likely to be booking in a mix of family holidays, business trips and weekend getaways so it’s important to consider their needs as they make up a large part of travellers.

Generation X are often looking for a balance between cost and quality when it comes to a hotel stay. They are willing to pay for an experience that fees worth it but are unlikely to be impressed by style alone if the basics are lacking.

Choice matters for this generation, and though digitally capable, Generation X are not necessarily digital-first. Though comfortable with the use of online booking systems, apps, and digital room keys, they still like the option to speak to a person when needed.

Millennials (Born Between 1981 and 1996)

Millennials have driven demand for boutique hotels, experience-based travel and digital convenience. For many in this generation, a hotel is not just a place to sleep, it’s a huge part of the trip itself. They appreciate hotels and B&B’s that make travelling easy while offering opportunities to relax, work and explore.

Reliable Wi-Fi connections, quality food and drink, fitness facilities and stylish rooms and communal areas all contribute to a positive stay. Millennials also pay close attention to online reviews and social media coverage before booking a stay, which makes reputation management important here.

Gen Z (Born Between 1997 and 2012)

Like Millennials, Gen Z have grown up in a digital world and often expect technology to make every stage of their travel effortless. Fast Wi-Fi, contactless check-ins and payments, and digital room keys are just a few examples of services that are expected by these younger guests.

This generation are also driven by visual appeal – whether that be unique boutique décor, Instagram-worthy interiors or well-lit dining areas, aesthetics matter. They are also most likely to choose a hotel if it offers something memorable like this.

The challenge for today’s hotels isn’t choosing one generation to target – it’s creating experiences that resonate with all of them. Rather than focusing solely on specific age groups, the hospitality is moving more towards personalisation. Understanding generational trends provides valuable insight, but the most successful hotels recognise that every guest wants to feel welcomed and valued – no matter what year they were born.

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