Trends driving travel in 2023
Travel is back with a vengeance and the appetite for travel shows no sign of slowing down in 2023. To get a sense of what’s in store for 2023, check out these travel predictions from Hotelbeds.
Revenge travel
If the past couple of years have taught us anything, it’s not to wait. Revenge travel will continue to gain momentum next year as people prioritize travel. Hotelbeds’ data shows growth for next year with analysis suggesting 30% more room nights will be booked in 2023 compared to this year — showing that rising inflation is not putting people off travelling.
Digitalization of hotels
A shift towards digitalization in the hotel sector (services like mobile room keys and remote check-ins and -outs) is slated to continue in 2023. Hotels need to access real-time data, so they know to staff up or slim down. Realtime occupancy data can make cleaning staff more productive by prioritizing which rooms to service first, while QR codes and digital menus not only make ordering food and other items seamless, but it also has a positive impact on the environment too by reducing paper.
Focus on Fintech in travel
Travel demand is surging but cancellations, delays and staffing shortages continue to plague travel operations, creating friction and stress for travellers. For travel companies pushing to regain and expand their market share in the current chaotic environment, travel fintech offers compelling solutions by freezing prices, changing or cancelling reservations and easily rebooking disrupted flights, paying with whichever payment methods they find convenient. Travellers are willing to pay for the added confidence – and suppliers reap the benefits of more direct bookings and a new revenue stream too. As awareness and adoption of fintech products grows, travellers increasingly will expect the option to lock in prices and gain peace of mind. The travel companies who provide it are more likely to thrive in the post-COVID environment.
Rise of sustainable travel
Recycling, hybrid cars, reducing plastic – all ways consumers are reducing their environmental impact. And now tourism is being added to this list too as more travellers seek sustainable trips so they can explore the world without damaging it.
Combining business with leisure
With hybrid and remote working here to stay for many, people are taking advantage of the ability to work from anywhere and combining business with pleasure. Barbados was an early pioneer offering the Barbados Welcome Stamp, allowing visitors to stay for up to a year and now many companies allows its teams to work in any location for extended periods, which has shown to boost employee morale.
Improved customer experience
Travellers are increasingly looking for a personalized service. They no longer want to be passenger 17A on an aircraft or room 303 in a hotel. They are now moving away from price and choosing experiences that are more individual. In a service sector such as tourism, consumers attach great importance to the quality of services and experiences and are willing to pay more to companies offering focus on customer-centricity.
