Key Point Summary – Flocking Dating Trend

• “Flocking” means traveling to spark real-life romantic connections
• Gen Z prefers travel over dating apps for meeting new people
• Priceline says Gen Z is 2.8x more likely to seek vacation romance
• New Priceline deals promote flocking in trendy beach and party towns
• The trend encourages group trips and bar-forward hotel stays

Dating Apps Out, Destination Romance In

Feeling burned out from dating apps? You’re far from alone. Gen Z singles are ditching endless swiping for something bolder—and sunnier. Enter “flocking,” the travel-first, love-later dating trend catching fire in 2025.

Instead of booking another awkward dinner date, more young people are booking flights. The logic? If you’re going to be single and disillusioned, you might as well be sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar in Tulum or dancing through Lisbon’s streets.

What Is Flocking?

Flocking is the art of chasing love through location. Simply put, it’s traveling with the intention—or at least the hope—of meeting someone new. Whether it’s other travelers or sexy locals, the focus is on real-world vibes, not algorithms.

According to Priceline’s 2025 Travel Trend Report, Gen Z is 2.8 times more likely than older generations to say travel is the new dating app. They’re also twice as likely to crave a vacation romance, and 74% more likely to seek out spots where spontaneous mingling is likely.

Goodbye Swipes, Hello Serendipity

Forget perfect bios and filtered selfies. Priceline calls flocking a reaction to emotional dating fatigue. “Whether it’s a hotel bar, a group excursion, or a spontaneous weekend away, Gen Z is swapping algorithms for real-world energy,” said a Priceline spokesperson.

The idea is to choose places where organic connections actually happen—think beach towns, boutique hotels, rooftop lounges, or group hikes. Basically, settings where sparks can fly without tapping a screen.

Want to Try Flocking? Here’s How

You don’t need a travel agent to get started. Grab a few single friends, pick a destination known for good vibes, and go. But if you’d rather let the pros guide you, Priceline’s “Get the Flock Out” campaign has your back.

Launched just in time for peak summer travel, the flash-deal series offers up to 35% off hotel stays in what they call “Gen Z-approved locations.” Translation? Places that are social, scenic, and possibly steamy.

Where to Flock for Love

So, where are flockers headed? Think cruisy beach towns, rooftop bar hubs, and cities that never sleep. Miami, San Diego, Lisbon, Mykonos, Bali, and Mexico City are all on the radar. These aren’t just vacation destinations—they’re curated opportunities for romance.

The key is picking hotels that encourage connection. Boutique properties with lounges, DJ nights, or group events are flocking hotspots. And yes, a swimsuit or three is highly encouraged.

Why This Trend Is Taking Off Now

After years of pandemic-era isolation and dating app fatigue, Gen Z is craving IRL energy. Flocking offers a romantic reset—part escapism, part optimism, and all about fresh starts.

There’s also the allure of the unknown. Unlike dating apps, which can feel predictable or transactional, travel is all about surprise. The cutie you meet at a sunrise hike or pool party? Way more memorable than a ghosted Tinder chat.

Packing Tips for Flockers

If you’re flocking for love, don’t just pack for the weather—pack like you’re headed to your next first date. That means bold outfits, comfortable party shoes, and enough confidence to say “hi” to a stranger at the bar.

And if you’re lucky, you might bring home more than a tan.