Traveling and hotels are a massive industry, and the sector is always evolving. Consumer demand, globalization, and new technology are all creating fresh trends in the industry. Keeping up with these developments is essential for anyone who wants to be in the know. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or cheap airline tickets, here are some of the biggest travel and hotel trends that will shape your next trip.
As travelers continue to seek out meaningful experiences, many are opting for non-hotel lodging this summer, such as private rentals, camping or RVs, Deloitte’s Daher says. This trend is expected to help drive RevPAR gains this summer. The growth of experiential travel is also expected to lead to a boom in sports tourism, with hotels near the Summer Olympics in Paris, for example, seeing increased bookings.
The strong U.S. dollar is also expected to boost foreign tourism, Avadhani and Selinger note. It may also spur more interest in high-end travel services, such as those offered by luxury tour operators and cruise lines.
While it’s tempting to book a vacation package that includes airfare, hotel and car rental for one low price, beware of hidden fees that can jack up the cost. Some of these deals are offered by online travel agencies, while others are sold by airlines and even hotels themselves. Look for terms such as “bundled discounts” or “special offers” when comparing packages.
If you’re sure your travel plans won’t change, prepaid rates can offer big savings on hotels, but keep in mind that most are nonrefundable. If you’re unsure, consider Airbnb instead. This popular rental site offers a range of options, including extended stay homes and apartments that rival the spacious comforts of some hotel rooms. For extra peace of mind, some Airbnb properties are designated as “Plus,” which means that the company has sent someone to visit and inspect the property in person.
Lastly, it’s worth signing up for a hotel loyalty program to take advantage of discounted stays and other perks. Some hotel chains now allow members to earn and redeem points for free nights and other perks when they book directly through the company’s website.
While the tourism industry continues to recover from post-pandemic “revenge travel,” it remains a big business and will continue to evolve as consumers shift their focus toward experiences. It’s important for businesses in this sector to keep up with these trends in order to stay relevant and meet the needs of consumers. This way, they can continue to thrive and provide customers with the best possible experience, regardless of the prevailing conditions.