Mood-lit cars, mobile cooking stations and onboard beauticians are just some of the upgrades Gen Z would introduce to business travel of tomorrow, says a new study. Olivia Palamountain reports
A recent study by TravelPerk has revealed that Gen Z have ambitious visions for the future of business travel, with a strong emphasis on luxury, technology and convenience.
These preferences have been brought to life by text-to-image AI Midjourney, which has generated imagery highlighting the future of business travel based on Gen Z’s wishlist.
The research shows that air travel remains the preferred mode of transport for 62% of Gen Z business travellers. However, their aspirations for the flying experience go far beyond current offerings.
Over a third (34%) of respondents expressed a desire for fold-out beds in all cabin classes, while nearly a third (32%) dream of personalised mini-bars.
The tech-savvy generation also hopes for advancements in in-flight technology.
Built-in seat TV screens and biometric tickets, which use fingerprint, voice, or facial recognition, were both desired by 29% of respondents. These innovations could potentially alleviate concerns about forgotten passports and tickets.
For Gen Z, the ability to work efficiently while travelling is crucial. The survey found that 27% want free wifi, and 25% hope for seats equipped with built-in digital communications devices such as phones or laptops.
This indicates a clear preference for a seamless experience that allows for greater productivity, including the currently prohibited practice of making in-flight calls.
When it comes to road travel, which ranks second in popularity with 59% of Gen Z workers, the demands are equally ambitious.
Respondents expressed a desire for cars with fold-out tables (31%), cooking areas for gourmet meals (30%), and even secret toilets under seats (27%).
The inclusion of advanced technology in cars is also a priority, with 20% wanting mood lighting and 17% hoping for biometric access.
Interestingly, 20% of Gen Z respondents dream of fully electric cars capable of covering any distance on a single charge, reflecting the generation’s environmental consciousness.
Buses and coaches, ranked third most popular by 33% of respondents, are envisioned as mobile spas and cafes.
Desired features include massage chairs (15%), on-board beauticians (14%), free skincare products (11%), and windows that can change scenery on command (11%).
The concept of mobile refreshment is also popular, with 21% hoping for on-board cafes and 16% desiring food pantries.
While many of these features may seem futuristic or even far-fetched, they provide valuable insight into the priorities and expectations of tomorrow’s business travellers.