Embrace the future: We reveal our travel predictions for 2024

As we wrap up 2023, it’s the perfect time to start planning for the year ahead. In our most comprehensive travel predictions research to date, a total of 27,730 travelers across 33 countries and territories responded to our survey. One key takeaway? Travel will be the primal pulse of life next year. 

We can now unveil seven exciting insights about what travelers are looking for next year, which will help you build your strategy to delight guests and increase bookings in 2024.

1. (Alter) ego enthusiasts

In 2024, travelers are increasingly embracing the art of shaping alter egos during their trips, with 37% of them weaving intricate narratives about their real lives when interacting with fellow travelers. They’re excited to reinvent themselves, with 42% even prepared to pay to rent a nicer car than the one they usually drive. By partnering with car rental companies, you can offer these guests a quick and easy way to upgrade their wheels while away.

They might also want to use their travels as an extension of aliases and avatars they already use online. You can help them bring their digital fantasies into the real world by implementing augmented reality (AR) experiences in your property. Whether it’s transforming the menus in your on-site restaurant into an interactive experience, or offering a virtual treasure hunt or escape room activity using your property’s design elements, embracing this technology can add an extra level of appeal.

2. Cool-cationers

As global temperatures continue to rise, travelers are seeking cooler destinations to escape the heat. To benefit from this trend, you can position your property as an ideal choice for travelers seeking relief from high temperatures. For example, update your listing with seasonal photography. If your property is in a winter vacation location, make sure you highlight this with snowy views. 

Three quarters of travelers say being close to water instantly makes them feel more relaxed. Consider offering unique ways to escape the heat, such as partnering with local companies that offer waterskiing, paddle-boarding, and windsurfing, or update your listing with info on local spa experiences. You can also attract guests searching for a refreshing escape by highlighting your property's climate advantages – emphasize top facilities like air conditioning, proximity to water, swimming pools, and outdoor areas. 

3. Surrender seekers

Travelers in 2024 are increasingly inclined to embrace spontaneity and adventure. We have a range of AI-powered tools, including our AI Trip Planner (available in the US). By integrating some of these tools into your listing, you can help travelers organize more flexible trips and incorporate the unexpected. 

Over half of travelers want to book a surprise trip where everything down to the destination is unknown until arrival, so promote your property as a haven for spontaneous travelers. Offer last-minute deals and flexible cancellation policies to accommodate travelers’ changing plans. 

Showcase the uniqueness of your location by updating your profile description on the Extranet and adding new photos that show people having fun at the property and its surroundings to encourage future guests to explore the unknown. By embracing this trend, you can create an environment that caters to the adventurous spirit of modern travelers.

4. Culinary explorers

Food plays a central role in the travel experience, and we recognize the growing interest in culinary exploration. According to our survey, almost two-thirds of respondents are more interested in discovering more about a destination’s “must-eat” dishes than ever before. Why not elevate the culinary experiences at your property to attract food enthusiasts? 

If your property has an on-site restaurant, feature it in your profile with photos of delicious delicacies. You also might want to step up your breakfast options to cater to adventurous appetites. If your property has built its reputation around top quality cuisine, put that front and center in your listing. Many food-first destinations have great success with this strategy.  

Four in five travelers want to try indigenous cuisines and local food so they can tell culinary tales from across the globe – make sure you highlight hidden treasures and cultural secrets. Consider collaborating with local restaurants to offer authentic dining experiences or hosting culinary events and workshops on-site. By embracing culinary exploration, you can entice food-loving travelers to choose your property.

5. Reboot retreaters

In times of global instability, travelers are seeking retreats focused on self-improvement. Accommodation providers are waking up to the new dawn of sleep tourism and supporting the 58% of travelers who are looking for some uninterrupted rest in 2024. We understand it – the need for rejuvenation. 

Consider offering wellness packages that incorporate sleep-focused amenities and create dedicated spaces within your property for relaxation. You should highlight facilities like a sauna, spa, or other activities designed to promote wellness, such as hydrotherapy pools, yoga, and dance or exercise classes. This will help you position your property as a flexible sanctuary for self-discovery and relaxation.

6. À la carte affluencers

Travelers in 2024 are looking to optimize their vacations by seeking value and luxury at the same time. They want to level up their travel experience but also cut costs. Elevate guests' experiences by embracing budget-friendly luxury and proximity to affordable attractions. You can promote your property as a place where guests can enjoy luxurious add-ons without breaking the bank.

According to our research, over 50% will choose to travel closer to home or somewhere less expensive than their hometown. You could add country rates to your listing if you expect to have increased bookings from guests from specific regions. Additionally, 47% of parents plan to take their children out of school during peak season to save money on vacation. You might want to offer competitive Child Rates at your property and offer promotions to boost your bookings during slower periods.

7. Mindful aesthetes

Sustainability and style converge in 2024, with travelers seeking more sustainable accommodations. Our research shows that 73% of guests are more likely to book at a property with sustainability practices in place, and partners who are already focusing on sustainability create even better guest experiences. Why not follow their lead?

Incorporate more sustainable practices, such as energy-efficient lighting and water-saving measures. If your property aligns with sustainable practices, it can earn our Travel Sustainable badge to showcase your sustainability initiatives in your listing. Create green spaces and incorporate plants. By embracing sustainable practices, you can attract mindful aesthetes who value responsible travel. 

As we move forward into 2024, let's embark on this transformative journey together. We’re committed to empowering extraordinary experiences for travelers, and you can play a pivotal role in making these predictions a reality. By aligning your offerings with these trends, you’ll ensure every guest's journey is filled with unforgettable moments, making their travel experiences truly exceptional. 

Together, we'll shape the future of travel and create a world where every adventure is a celebration of life itself.