There was a time when people actually planned vacations to break the monotony, discover new places, and maybe return home with a slightly questionable souvenir (did you really need that rock you collected from your favourite beach?).

Now, most of the vacations revolve around making decisions related to the FOMO concept, which are not-so-consciously designed to generate envy on social media. Who cares about tasting authentic ‘kahwa chai’ in Kashmir, when the real goal is to get the perfect shot of you holding it in the backdrop of its front of its picturesque landscape? Welcome to the era where travel isn't just about the journey—it's more about the ‘content.’

Research from 2019 found that a remarkable 86 percent of people, and 92 percent of Gen Z – have researched a destination after being inspired by online posts of others. A pre-pandemic report from Statista revealed that more than a third of people use social media for travel inspiration and ideas, with 60 percent sharing their own holiday or travel content.

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The same report also highlighted that one million travel-related hashtags are searched every week, which also indicates the significant role the sector, alongside trends like #wanderlust, #lifestyle, and #travelgoals, plays in the online world.

The digital space: Travel as a spectacle
In today's world, social media stands out as the most easily accessible source of information. Half of people get their news from social media, which, while raising questions about the legitimacy and reliability of shared information, also highlights the enormous influence these platforms wield.

And in today’s hyper-connected world, travel has also become a spectator sport. Platforms like Instagram and Facebook transformed beaches, ancient ruins, and quaint cafes into must-visit ‘content zones.’ Instead of soaking in the view, you’re soaking in sweat while attempting endless takes of the perfect jump shot. The irony? Half your audience will scroll past it in two seconds, and the other half might just unfollow you out of sheer jealousy.

As per the records, more than a billion people have joined Facebook in the last 12 years, and 800 million have made profiles on Instagram since its 2010 inception. These apps have become constant companions, installed on our phones and find space in almost everywhere from our bed to the bathroom (yes, 75% of people admit to this, so no point in judging anyone). Yet, we rarely pause to consider the long-term effects of curating and sharing our lives for everyone to view (and critique) on our minds and daily existence.

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We are now curators of our own digital galleries thanks to social media. But are we really experiencing them when we share every meal, monument, and moment? Or are we just performing for an unseen audience? Oversharing has transformed what ought to be intimate and significant into something painstakingly designed for widespread consumption.

The "Instagram vs. reality" dilemma
How many times have you planned your trips based on what you saw on Instagram?

It’s no secret that social media thrives on illusion. That serene photo of a traveller enjoying the snowfall of Shimla conveniently crops out other tourists trying to get that perfect selfie. Those ‘spontaneous’ shots of a couple laughing on a gondola? Choreographed to perfection.

This constant drive to get the "perfect moment," however, frequently causes people to miss the real moment. Instead of enjoying the unadulterated splendour of a Spiti village, many tourists are obsessed with getting the perfect angle for a drone photo. Ironically, the quest for online approval is driving away many from the genuine pleasures of travel.

The rise of "checklist tourism"
A new type of traveller known as the checklist tourist has emerged as a result of social media's influence. Armed with lists of "Instagrammable" locations, they visit places for their carousel. The Taj Mahal? Check. Ladakh? Check. That spotting of tigers in Ranthambore National Park? Double-check, and more.

There is nothing wrong with wanting to record memories, but the fixation on checking off places that are worthy of social media frequently results in the loss of hidden treasures. Instead of savouring the unexpected—a charming street performer or a cozy local diner—it’s all about sticking to the script.

The psychological cost of oversharing
Behind every perfectly curated feed is a traveller teetering on the edge of burnout. The constant need to document and share can turn a relaxing vacation into a high-pressure assignment. Every meal becomes a photo opportunity, and every moment becomes a possible post. This eventually results in many returning home feeling that they need a holiday from their vacation, rather than feeling rejuvenated.

The relentless comparison game also takes a toll. Seeing someone else’s flawless travel posts can trigger feelings of inadequacy. Did their trip to Himachal look better than yours? Are you even travelling right if you didn’t wear a flowy dress while posing against a dramatic sunset?

The environmental and cultural impact
Oversharing doesn’t just affect individuals—it impacts destinations, too. Famous spots are now overcrowded as a result of the pursuit of the perfect photograph. Local traditions are commercialised, fragile ecosystems are trampled underfoot, and once-pristine areas are overtaken by soon-to-be influences.

Consider the emergence of geotagging. Although it's fantastic for exploration, it's not so great for hidden gems that can't withstand the surge of tourists. Locals and the environment suffer when a peaceful lake or a peaceful hiking path is overrun.

Finding the balance: Travel for yourself, not your feedSo, how do we handle this paradox? How can we gain from social media without allowing it to take away the true spirit of travel?

Disconnect to reconnect: Try considering digital detox during your next trip. Put your phone away in your hotel room and experience the place, and be at present. Take in the joys of freedom of experience something now without feeling compelled to record it.

Be selective about sharing: Not every moment needs to make it to your feed. Sometimes, some things are personal or precious. Don't share to maintain the sanctity of the place, or just as a treasure of your favourite trip.

Respect the destination: Consider how your social media usage may affect the locations you frequent. Avoid contributing to overcrowding or damaging fragile sites.

Embrace Imperfection: Forget about flawless poses and perfect lighting. Allow your posts to capture your real life, even the accidents and the ordinary.

The joy of analog travel In a world obsessed with digital documentation, there’s something magical about traveling the old-fashioned way. Your journey will be much more satisfying if you keep a journal, mail postcards, or just take in the views without using a device.

Remember, travel is about growth, discovery, and connection—not likes and followers. So, the next time you find yourself fretting over your Instagram story, ask yourself: Who are you really traveling for?