TikTok, with over one billion active users, has become a popular platform for young travelers to seek insider advice and recommendations for their holidays. Users can simply input a few words into the app and get their day planned out in just a few minutes, making holiday planning much easier and more efficient. From finding recommendations for places to eat or drink to discovering events happening in a city, TikTok has become a valuable resource for travelers looking for authentic experiences beyond typical tourist spots.
Many travelers, like 24-year-old social media manager Gilleesa Gillen, view TikTok as their travel best friend. It provides recommendations that may not be found through traditional search methods like guidebooks or travel articles. Gillen shares how she has discovered hidden gems through the app, such as a speakeasy bar in Paris that she found on TikTok and took her friend to. The app has become a way for users to explore new places and experiences that they may have otherwise missed.
A survey by Adobe found that over two in five TikTok users treat the app as a search engine, with many specifically searching for travel destinations, experiences, and new restaurants. This number is even higher among Gen Z and millennials, with a significant portion using the app to find travel-related content. As a result, TikTok has seen a surge of travelers to the platform, prompting the social media giant to capitalize on this trend by promoting travel content and products.
Stuart Flint, Head of Global Business Solutions for Europe at TikTok, highlighted the platform’s popularity among users seeking travel inspiration. He stated that a majority of European TikTok users intentionally search for travel content on the app, with many feeling inspired to visit a destination or purchase a travel-related product after discovering it on TikTok. The authenticity of creators on the platform, who showcase both the positive and negative aspects of travel experiences, appeals to users seeking genuine recommendations.
For travelers looking to use TikTok to plan their holidays, the process is fairly straightforward. By combining the name of a place with keywords like “travel” or “itinerary,” users can find specific recommendations tailored to their preferences. Searching for activities or particular interests, such as thrift shops or countryside experiences, can bring up relevant videos to help users plan their trip. Additionally, searching for budget-friendly options, like “free things to do,” can provide inspiration for activities that won’t break the bank. Gillen also recommends checking the number of saves on a video and conducting additional research, such as reading Google reviews, to ensure the authenticity of recommendations before trying them out.
In conclusion, TikTok has revolutionized the way young travelers plan their holidays by providing a platform for authentic and personalized recommendations. Users can easily access a wealth of travel content, from hidden gems to budget-friendly activities, by utilizing the app’s search functionality. As more travelers turn to TikTok for travel inspiration and advice, the platform continues to evolve as a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their travel experiences through insider tips and recommendations.
