Touristic Behaviors of Generation Z: Reasons Behind the Reduction in Travel Among Young People

In the context of increasing environmental and social challenges, sustainable tourism—and particularly awareness of climate-related threats—plays a crucial role in protecting the environment. Certain travel behaviors, such as inappropriate choices of transportation or vacation destinations, have a significant impact on it. Generation Z, defined as individuals born after 1995, stands out due to the cohort’s high environmental awareness and openness to new technologies, which may influence their tourism choices. The aim of this study is to verify hypotheses concerning the main reasons for travel reduction among Generation Z and to identify the relationships between selected demographic factors, such as place of residence and source of income, and the tourism activity of this social group. Statistical methods were employed, and a chi-square test was used to analyze the relationship between the decision to forgo travel and variables such as place of residence and source of income. The results indicate that place of residence and income source are not significantly associated with the likelihood of engaging in tourism in 2024. A considerable proportion of young respondents reported refraining from travel primarily due to a lack of free time. Financial and environmental concerns also played important roles. Tourism policy should therefore consider not only economic and spatial factors but also the growing ecological awareness, promoting sustainable forms of tourism and initiatives that enhance accessibility for diverse social groups.