Young Travelers Turn on Their Own: Adopting Airport Lounge Habit

The stereotype of baby boomers as over-prepared travelers has been turned on its head by younger generations, who are now adopting some of their habits.

A study by American Express found that 75% of millennials and Gen Zers are arriving at airports hours before their flights, not to check in early or browse duty-free shops, but to spend time in airport lounges.

This is a reversal from the past, when these younger generations mocked boomers for showing up too early. In fact, it was boomer travelers who pioneered this habit as far back as 2016, according to an AARP Travel study that found they would queue, check in, and browse shops long before their younger counterparts.

The shift towards lounges is driven by credit card perks that have made access easier for young travelers. With comfortable seats, free Wi-Fi, and warm buffet meals, lounges are now a sought-after experience for millennials and Gen Zers who value travel as a 'non-negotiable' expense.