Travel trends are constantly evolving and changing, influenced by various factors such as technology, social trends, economic conditions, and global events. Keeping up with these trends is essential for anyone involved in the travel industry, from travel agencies to hotels and airlines, as it allows them to better understand their customers’ needs and preferences and adapt their strategies and offerings accordingly. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted the travel industry. Staying abreast of travel trends empowers the key players in the industry to comprehend consumer behavior, gain a competitive edge, discover emerging markets, and adjust to evolving circumstances.
Travel Trends in 2023
Expedia Group commissioned third-party research that suggests that in 2023, “the No-Normal” will emerge as the buzzword to describe travel. This term reflects the trend of travelers sticking to their preferences and seeking unconventional experiences off the beaten path. Let’s explore what some of those trends are.
Sustainable Travel
Sustainable travel is becoming increasingly important today as it significantly impacts our planet’s environmental and social well-being. By choosing to travel sustainably, we can reduce the negative impacts of tourism on the environment, conserve natural resources, and support local communities. Sustainable travel can be achieved by making conscious choices about transportation, accommodation, and activities. Businesses offering eco-friendly, ethical travel experiences and sharing precisely how they’re making a difference have greater chances of attracting travelers in 2023. Moreover, supporting local businesses, buying locally sourced products, and engaging in eco-friendly activities such as hiking, wildlife tours, and cultural experiences can positively impact the communities we visit. Sustainable travel can be done in many locations worldwide, from exploring national parks in the United States to volunteering on community development projects in Southeast Asia, cycling through vineyards in Italy, and visiting green hotels and spas in Costa Rica. Travelers also prefer quality over quantity, exploring unassuming locales and unfamiliar places. These charming and lesser-known spots are becoming increasingly popular among those who like to take a slower approach to travel and immerse themselves in new surroundings with loved ones rather than rushing into the hustle and bustle of busy urban centers.
Wellness Travel
The trauma caused by Covid-19 has made wellness travel increasingly popular in recent years as people seek to prioritize their physical and mental health while on vacation. Wellness travel encompasses various activities and experiences that promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being. These include spa treatments, yoga, meditation classes, healthy cooking classes, outdoor activities such as hiking and biking, and even digital detoxes where individuals unplug from technology and focus on self-care. Wellness travel provides an opportunity to recharge, reset, and return home feeling refreshed and energized. With various wellness-focused destinations and experiences available, from luxury wellness resorts to immersive wellness retreats, wellness travel offers something for everyone, making it a popular trend that will likely grow.
Bleisure
Working remotely has led to the rise of “bleisure” as a popular concept, which combines business travel with leisure activities. The ability to work from anywhere has made it easier to extend business trips and take advantage of the opportunity to explore new destinations. Bleisure is an excellent option for travelers because it allows them to experience different cultures, taste new foods, and see new sights. It can also offer a break from work-related stress and a chance to recharge and rejuvenate. Additionally, taking advantage of bleisure travel can help businesses attract and retain employees, allowing them to balance work and personal life while still fulfilling professional obligations. With the rise of remote work, bleisure is expected to become an even more popular trend, allowing individuals to enjoy both work and leisure experiences while exploring new destinations. A more extreme form of Bleisure is the “digital nomad” concept, which involves relocating to a vacation destination and working from there. Various countries offer digital nomad visas to remote workers for this particular purpose. For those afraid of such drastic change, a new travel trend called “Hush Trip” is gaining popularity. It involves working remotely while taking short secret vacation trips unbeknownst to the employers.
Internet connectivity while traveling abroad
Internet connectivity is crucial while traveling as it allows people to work online, stay connected with their loved ones, and access vital information such as maps, apps, and other services. Travelers usually rely on free Wi-Fi, not realizing how it could potentially lead to identity theft. A way to prevent that would be using secure internet access on your phone. However, traditional SIM cards can be a hassle as they require physical swapping, leading to time-consuming processes and costly roaming fees. According to eSIM Korea, a primary eSIM service provider, eSIMs offer a contactless solution that is faster and more efficient, making them an ideal option for people who prefer the convenience and speed of digital services. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a small chip inside a mobile device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch, that enables users to connect to a cellular network without needing a physical SIM card. eSIMs can be quickly downloaded and installed onto smartphones and other mobile devices, allowing users to switch between carriers and plans while traveling without changing their physical SIM card. Moreover, eSIM Korea offers flexibility and cost savings, as users can choose from various plans to fit their specific needs and travel requirements.
As travel preferences evolve and become trends, so do the services travelers require. To match the environmental friendliness demanded by sustainable travelers and the ease and convenience espoused by bleisure and digital nomads, eSIMs have emerged as a critical player. As contactless services continue to grow, eSIMs will likely become an increasingly popular choice for travelers who want to stay connected while on the go.