Where will you travel next year, and what will the travel industry look like? With travel having been back in action for a while, it comes as no surprise that each year brings with it new travel destinations, traveller needs and industry advancements.
That’s why Expat Explore has compiled this list of the top travel trends to look out for in 2024. Read on to uncover what the world of travel may look like next year, from the involvement of technology to traveller appetites.
Related: Take a look at what was trending in travel in 2023!
Here are our top travel trends for 2024:
Travel tech of the future
Travel and tech have already become inseparable in recent years. But with no signs of technological advances slowing down any time soon and the travel industry being back with a bang, the impact of tech on travel will become even more prominent in the coming years.
First, automated bookings will likely see a revamp and resurgence in 2024 travel. While this is not a new introduction to the industry, recent innovations could mean that the automated booking process, both online and on apps, can be simplified to provide an even more streamlined experience to eager travellers.
Second, the role of AI will also become more prominent as its uses begin stretching beyond the digital. For example, AI tools and systems can be utilised to streamline guest management responsibilities such as linen change requests or room service.
Related: Check out these travel apps that can already simplify your trip!
Ease of booking on mobile
Following the tech advancements that will inevitably change the industry, travel experts will see more merit in prioritising mobile booking functionalities on their websites and apps. This bodes well for both travellers and travel professionals.
For travellers, these tech advancements mean you can expect higher ease of booking as well as improvements across the whole mobile experience to make content easier to find, layouts better displayed and the discovery journey simpler to complete.
For travel experts, all of this improves the relationship with their guests as they can meet customer expectations with greater ease. From providing updated itineraries and offering easy-to-search accommodation options to notifying customers of deals or new destinations, putting mobile first means meeting travellers where they operate – on their phones.
Related: You can book a single or multi-country tour on mobile with Expat Explore!
Personalised travel plans
The next big trend we hope to see more of in the industry next year is a focus on personalised travel. While there is value in providing set itineraries for customers to book, travellers also want a measure of control over their travel choices. And if travel experts can find a way to combine that – the focus on freedom of travel and the ease of predetermined itineraries – there’s no limit to what the industry can achieve!
When it comes to personalised travel, we don’t mean putting the responsibility and stress back into the traveller’s hands. Instead, personalised travel means that customers have enough variety in the options available to them that they can select itineraries or destinations best suited to their interests and travel expectations.
Finally, providing personalised travel plans also means leaving enough wiggle room within set itineraries for travellers to make up their own minds and change them if they want to. This requires planning in terms of substitute excursions, for example, so travellers can select from a variety of activities running concurrently. It also necessitates some free time within the itineraries to allow travellers to sightsee and explore on their own, or even just take a breather when they need to.
Related: Make even more personalised memories with these tips to plan your free days.
Travel that transforms you
One of the biggest travel trends next year that’s already started popping up recently is the need for transformative travel experiences. Sure, people still want to be able to tick the incredible sights and experiences off their travel bucket lists, but with an increased focus on self-care and mental health in recent years, travellers now also want their trips to add value to their lives and leave a lasting impression.
This means the industry will see a shift towards more community and culture-based travel experiences, where tourists integrate with locals to get a full, authentic sense of a place and its people. Part of this authentic approach means prioritising nature, not only by including it on itineraries but also by travelling consciously and sustainably to ensure the longevity of these must-see attractions.
Related: Discover how travel can transform your mental health for the better.
Nature nurtures travellers
The inclusion of natural attractions is another huge travel trend we expect to see next year. Perhaps it’s a culmination of the other trends bringing people closer to the natural attractions they would previously not have access to or the opportunity to see. Or perhaps we’ve learned in recent years to start respecting nature more than we have and to enjoy it while we can.
Whatever the reason may be, we’re thrilled that all of the natural wonders of the world and its hidden natural gems are becoming more popular travel options. Hopefully, it will inspire future generations to take better care of our planet to ensure that many more generations to come can experience the sheer beauty of the place we call home.
Related: Add these green and nature-rich European cities to your travel wish list!
There you have it; our top travel trends to take note of in 2024! We hope these trends inspire you to complete that wish list, go on that trip, and experience the world the way you want to. After all, what good are advancements in the travel industry if they don’t benefit travellers?
If you’d like to see the world on curated group coach tours with plenty of freedom to personalise, book a tour with Expat Explore! Our single and multi-country tours are designed to help you tick off the top attractions while collecting lifelong memories for less.