Core Insights - The rise of "budget travel" among young people is reshaping the domestic tourism market in China, with a projected 2 billion trips in 2024 and a decrease in average daily spending to 269 yuan, returning to pre-pandemic levels [2][3] - A study conducted by a research team from Liaocheng University highlights the impact of "budget travel" on consumer behavior and the need for the cultural and tourism sectors to adapt to this new trend [3][4] Group 1: Characteristics of "Budget Travel" - 84.62% of respondents are under 28 years old, and 78.21% are students, indicating that young people are the primary drivers of this trend [4] - 63.08% of respondents spend between 500-3000 yuan on each trip, with 63.59% indicating that "budget travel" is not their usual travel style, suggesting it is chosen under specific circumstances [4][5] - The experience of "budget travel" is valued more than the cost savings, as it fosters genuine interactions and cultural exchanges [4][8] Group 2: Changing Consumer Behavior - Social media platforms are crucial for young travelers, with over 90% using platforms like Douyin and Xiaohongshu for travel information [5] - Young travelers are reducing accommodation budgets by one-third but are willing to spend 45% of their budget on cultural experiences, indicating a shift in spending priorities [5][6] - 68% of respondents view "budget travel" as a form of self-actualization, reflecting a desire for identity and community recognition [7] Group 3: Industry Response and Challenges - Tourist attractions are adapting to the changing preferences of young travelers, with examples like Henan's immersive theater attracting large crowds and increasing visitor engagement [9][11] - Despite criticism of commercialization, young travelers are willing to pay for quality cultural experiences, highlighting a disconnect between supply and demand [10][11] - The industry faces challenges such as data silos and a lack of trust due to discrepancies between online marketing and actual experiences [10][12] Group 4: Recommendations for Industry Upgrades - The research team suggests a three-dimensional response system for upgrading the tourism industry, including structural reforms, digital infrastructure enhancements, and innovative governance mechanisms [12][13] - Modular tourism product designs and the integration of AR/VR technologies are proposed to enhance visitor experiences and meet the needs of "budget travelers" [12][13] - The ongoing transformation driven by young travelers emphasizes the importance of creating meaningful and memorable experiences over mere cost savings [13]