HCM CITY — Việt Nam's Gen Z is applying technology such as artificial intelligent (AI) in their daily life, and transforming consumption patterns across various sectors, experts said.

Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is the first generation to grow up in an era dominated by the internet, with high technology being a part of their everyday routines globally.

Việt Nam is no exception, with Gen Z accounting for approximately one-third of the total workforce in the country, totalling more than 19 million people aged 14–27. 

A recent survey by digital travel platform Booking.com reveals that Việt Nam's Gen Z seamlessly integrates AI into their daily lives without a second thought. 

The survey highlights that about 75 per cent of Vietnamese Gen Z individuals use AI-enhanced search engines daily, with 66 per cent utilising generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude on a daily basis.

Moreover, 59 per cent of respondents rely on AI-powered recommendation engines on streaming platforms, while 70 per cent interact with smart devices such as security cameras, thermostats, and facial recognition systems daily. 

This familiarity extends to their lifestyle choices, with Gen Z leveraging AI for shopping suggestions, fitness tracking, and dining recommendations.

With AI already so ingrained in their daily choices, it's no surprise that they carry this reliance with them into their travel journeys, with 44 per cent already turning to AI for travel inspiration and booking support.

“This generation, raised with AI as a core part of their daily routine, is leveraging the technology not just for trip planning but for every stage of their journey, demonstrating a level of integration and expectation that will shape the future of the travel industry,” the report said.

The study found that 85 per cent of Gen Z in Việt Nam describe themselves as "familiar" with AI technologies, while one in five say they understand how it works and another 65 per cent have a more basic grasp of the concept. This deep-seated trust and familiarity make them a generation that sees AI as a constant travel companion, not just a tool. 

“AI is transforming travel from planning to experiencing and Gen Z is showing us how naturally it fits into everyday life. With Gen Z setting new expectations, we will continue to push AI further – not just to simplify choices, but to inspire more confident and meaningful journeys for everyone,” said Branavan Aruljothi, country head, Vietnam at Booking.com.

For Gen Z , travel is no exception; AI is part of the entire journey. This confidence is reflected in how they travel, using AI at every stage of the cycle.

Almost all Vietnamese Gen Z travelers have used AI to prepare for travel. This includes receiving tailoured suggestions based on accessibility needs and researching new destinations and the best time to go.

About 99 per cent also rely on AI once on the ground, especially to translate local languages, signs, menus, or conversations and to receive interesting facts about sights along the way.

Looking ahead, 99 per cent of Gen Z say they would ideally like AI to support them in planning future trips, from researching new destinations and suggesting local experiences to recommending restaurants they might enjoy. — VNS