Wealthy travelers are paying big bucks for bragging rights and customized itineraries

More wealthy travelers are skipping packaged tours and choosing tailored trip itineraries that fit individual interests, needs, schedules — and even whims.

Millionaires skip the hassles of planning a trip to Africa by working with private tour operators. Photo by Dion Scoppettuolo.

“There is a surge of people looking for the meaningful experience,” said Lynn Cutter, executive vice president for travel at the National Geographic Society. The demand for something other than cookie-cutter tours has prompted the organization to explore adding more bespoke travel to its thick roster of expeditions around the world.

“Millionaire travelers want no surprises, but they do want convenience and experiences to distinguish themselves from their peers,” said Henry Harteveldt of Atmosphere Research Group, a travel research organization.