Why staying connected is the new travel essential

Suitcase packed? Check.

Passport? Check.

Phone? Check.

Travel eSIM?

The launch of mobile internet services around the turn of the 21^st century transformed many aspects of our daily lives. Thanks to data, we can now connect instantly and seamlessly — with people, businesses, governments, and smart devices – from anywhere.

Yet, travelling often disrupts our routines, leaving us scrambling for affordable internet access.

Travel eSIM technology is the latest innovation to help deliver stress-free data connectivity wherever we venture. But it’s only one example of how technology is shaping our travel habits.

To find out more about our attitudes towards technology when it comes to travel, we spoke to 2,000 UK holidaymakers about how they plan their holidays, where they like to go and what devices they take.

How are we staying connected?

Travel technology habits are a bit like packing for the trip itself—everyone has their priorities. For 88% of travellers, smartphones have unsurprisingly become an indispensable companion. We crave connection—not just to the internet but to our loved ones and sharing the experiences that make every trip memorable.

But it’s not just about our phones. Our research found 58% of Gen Z (18-27 year olds) and Millennials (28-43) can't travel without their trusty headphones (no doubt playing a ‘summer vibes’ playlist), while 43% of Boomers (60-78) like to bring their tablets along for the journey.

And what are they using them for?

67% of Gen Z are busy updating their carefully curated social media channels, whereas 66% of Gen X (44-59) and Boomers are using internet searches to find the best local cuisines and activities.

As for Millennials, the true digital natives, on average 56% are immersing themselves in all these activities—a reflection of the generation that grew up alongside the internet.

AI meets wanderlust

Artificial intelligence is shaking up travel like never before, with 58% of holidaymakers using the power of AI assistants to make their adventures unforgettable.

This jumps up for Gen Z, where 79% depend on it to plan holidays as picture-perfect as their Instagram feeds.

From scouting out the hottest destinations to learning a few foreign phrases with translation apps, and even crafting perfectly timed itineraries, travellers are embracing AI to squeeze the most fun out of their favourite time of the year.

And what are those top destinations?

Over a third of the people surveyed, 37% said they dream of visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris, while 31% are eager to soak in the timeless charm of the Colosseum in Rome. 29%, would prefer to navigate the lively streets of New York City.

Let’s get packing

In a world where travel habits and trends are ever evolving, it’s clear that staying connected remains at the heart of every journey.

Whether you're discovering hidden gems, documenting your adventures, or simply staying in touch with loved ones, seamless connectivity ensures a stress-free experience.

Now with over 206 destinations, with access to 700 networks and the world's largest 5G coverage spanning 98 countries, our Travel eSIM will keep you connected, wherever you are.

About the research

This research was carried out by Opinium in May 2025, based on a sample of 2,000 UK holidaymakers.