However, with offshoots like YouTube Shorts and Instagram Reels mimicking the short-form video format, the area TikTok really excels in is authentic story-telling. Posts are centered around the content creator, with the acronym “POV” (point of view) being one of the most commonly used captions. “I personally do a lot of voiceover videos so I can share my full experience and opinions,” Abena explains when asked how she makes her content. “Gen Z wants to find honest reviews from those with first-hand experience.”
Particularly with the long task of planning a holiday, users look for real people giving real insights in an engaging way. More so than other social media, TikTok creates a space where anyone can get traction, so travel brands, experienced influencers and even first-time travelers blend together in this open-access and diverse pool of reviews.
TikTok content
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How to get started on TikTok
For all the non-users now tempted by this social media powerhouse (I’m looking at you, Millennials), here are some top tips to ease you into TravelTok.
Look for inspiration
Start by simply exploring what’s out there. The platform provides an endless stream of montages showcasing the most dreamy places in the world, guaranteed to spark the wanderlust of all its users. Be open-minded to the content guiding your travel, and you may discover destinations beyond your wildest dreams.
Try a specific search
From offbeat islands to tiny vintage stores, it’s difficult to find something that has not been on TikTok before. Don’t hold back from searching an obscure restaurant you just booked, as chances are someone will have reviewed it or, at the very least, posted some visuals. While quality varies from influencer films to locals trying their hand at vlogging, it is always useful to see a place through the eyes of a real person.
Don’t fall for the viral traps
When somewhere is labeled “viral” on TikTok, chances are that eager crowds will follow. The platform’s clever algorithm keeps TikTok at the forefront of trends, meaning places quickly blow up while others are left overshadowed. Dig a little deeper into the app for alternatives which may have attracted less hype, but are just as worthy of the attention. If the place at the top of your bucket list has gone viral, go at off-peak times to avoid the inevitable queues.
Verify your sources
As much as I advocate for TikTok itineraries, it’s always good to finish off with a little independent research to map out exactly how your day will look. After all, TikTok is social media made up of unregulated and independent voices, so remember that the content you consume has not been fact-checked. A quick web search will help to make sure your travel plan is feasible or even real, as well as find the most up-to-date opening times, transport links and prices.
Don’t pre-visit your trip
Seeing something on screen will never beat the experience of seeing it in the flesh. Once you’ve settled on your place and itinerary, resist the temptation to watch all the clips that the algorithm will inevitably bombard you with. Uncovering a place’s quirks is what makes travel memorable, so make sure to leave yourself some surprises on the day.
A version of this story originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller UK.
