The travel & tourism sector is continually changing due to tourists’ need for new experiences, rapid global technological breakthroughs, climate change, and other factors.
Top 5 Travel Trends to Follow in 2022
Following an all-time high in the previous decade, with 2018 recording the highest international tourist arrivals, the tourism industry is now undeniably confronted with significant challenges and unsettling changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Nonetheless, as we move into the new normal, increasing tourism trends can help tour operators and other industry providers overhaul their businesses and achieve success.
Automation
Making a phone call, chatting directly with a service provider, or walking into a supplier’s office for face-to-face meetings are all things of the past. Negotiating is long gone.
Online bookings have increased as a result of digitization. Not only has this reduced the cost of advertising for travel companies, but customers are increasingly appreciating and preferring the ease it provides.
Companies that provide tours and activities have gradually integrated technology and online booking. In 2019, 71 per cent of the operators polled said they used reservation technology in their firms, up from only 25% in 2010.
Furthermore, these businesses grew at a faster rate and were more profitable.
As we approach the post-COVID era, automation in the industry is only going to increase. Tourism’s expanding digitalization also creates new business prospects and encourages the sector’s long-term growth.
So, as you fight to reclaim profitability, take advantage of the tourism trend and set up the appropriate technology to improve your chances of a faster recovery.
Mobile Reservations
When it comes to digitization, mobile bookings are another essential consideration. Two out of every five internet bookings are made on mobile devices, according to operators. These smartphone customers are also more critical to your company for the reasons below:
They spend 50% more every trip on excursions and activities and are twice as likely to leave reviews on the internet.
Longer Journeys
Tourists are starting to dream of long-distance excursions again now that international travel is back to some extent. While some governments advocate for reduced air travel, this trend will allow people to travel less but more effectively.
Longer journeys will also become more popular as a result of the numerous work-from-home alternatives as a result, remote workers are more likely to plan lengthy stays in 2022 and beyond.
Personalization
Travellers believe businesses should tailor their purchasing experiences based on their behaviours, personal preferences, and previous decisions.
When it comes to the actual trip or activity, personalization is equally vital. You can better delight your clients by offering flexible experiences that can be adapted to their needs, leading to repeat visits if you offer flexible experiences tailored to a traveller’s demands.
As a result, your top objective should be to provide customer-focused services.
It begins the moment they notice your advertisement on social media or your website. The client’s preferences should be reflected in the messaging. Suggestions for travel and tours can be made based on what the customer has been looking at on the internet.
By incorporating this into your company’s digital marketing plan, you will be in a better position. What’s the best way to get started? To understand your consumers’ preferences, characteristics, behaviour, and specific needs, go out and communicate with them.
Plan a Staycation
Another fad that grew in prominence during the pandemic was a staycation. It denotes a vacation spent in one’s home country or residence rather than travelling abroad. Day trips are frequently taken to explore local attractions and activities.
This form of leisure is great for folks who want to get out of their homes but don’t want to be subjected to the continuous Covid-19 rules.
Despite the loosening of international travel restrictions, a new study predicts that the pattern will continue beyond 2022. This is because tourists want to help their local economies while still feeling secure and safe while on vacation.
Small tour companies and lodging providers can rest assured that there will be a steady stream of guests in the years ahead.