Millennials are often called the digital generation, but perhaps a lifetime online has taught them the importance of unplugging from time to time. A new survey finds that 49 percent of millennials are willing to leave their smartphone at home while on vacation but just 37 percent of people in their 40s and 50s said they would.
A digital safety-focused division of Intel called Intel Security, surveyed nearly 14,000 consumers between 21 and 54, about their digital habits while traveling. About 65 percent of participants defined “unplugging” as abstaining from any internet use and 50 percent said they were “unplugged” if they didn’t make any phone calls.
Here are a few highlights:
- 55 percent of participants said they wanted to unplug during vacation but failed to do so.
- 65 percent said traveling is more relaxing when they are able to unplug and 51 percent said unplugging allowed them to form stronger connections with their travel companions.
- 47 percent of men and 37 percent of women said they were willing to leave their phone at home while traveling.
- 68 percent said they check their email at least once a day, every day, while vacationing.
- Americans check their work email on vacation more than travelers from any other country.
The study was conducted to bring awareness to the potential security risks of accessing sensitive information while traveling. Intel Security specifically warns against posting to social media in busy travel hubs, like airports, publicizing specific information about your location, and connecting to unprotected Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices. Though it may not help you meet your unplugging goals, the study also suggests monitoring bank accountings vigilantly while on vacation.
