This week, TripAdvisor released their annual list of top travel trends for 2016 (PDF). Hidden in the results are a few very interesting details that not only apply to 2016, but hint at travel trends that may have a longer tail for both hotels, airlines, and OTAs.
Top Travel Trends for 2016
Trend #1 – Seeking new experiences
Globally, 69% of travelers plan to try something new in 2016, including cruises (20%) and adventure travel (15%). A key travel trend in the data is that 17% will try solo travel for the first time in 2016. It will be key for hoteliers to anticipate the unique needs of solo travelers and catering to this emerging trend.
Trend #2 – Spending more because it’s “worth itâ€
One in three travelers plan to spend more in 2016 than they did in 2015, with nearly half (49%) of respondents doing so “because I or my family deserve it.†To capture these increased revenues, hotels must differentiate themselves with travel packages that focus on unique experiences, such as the “romantic kidnapping” and picnic at Namale Resort.
Trend #3 – Choosing destinations based on culture, special offers
Travel trends continue to point to the importance of targeted online marketing to focus buyers on your destination, with 21% choosing a destination because a hotel had a special offer or package. One in five global travelers have picked a destination because they saw it featured on television. In 2016, turn your marketing and social media team loose to create visibility for those key items that make your market a “must see.”
Trend #4 – Staying cool and connected
While free wi-fi continues to be a critical buy factor for most travelers (46%), many travelers relate that they require “super-fast” wireless internet access (26%); 11% are willing to pay a premium to get the speed they need to stream movies and connect in high-definition.
Trend #5 – Rising room rates (and optimism)
Industry analysts and hoteliers are confident that 2016 will bring higher rates, with 47% of global hoteliers initiating rate increases. This travel trend should lead to capital improvements and enhancements for many in the industry. Despite these reinvestments, 65% of hoteliers expect profits to increase next year, as 2016 should give the industry a new baseline for both ADR and profitability.
Trend #6 – Managing reputations online
Given that TripAdvisor initiated the survey, it’s not surprising to see reviews carrying a focus in 2016. I was surprised, however, to see only 59% of hoteliers planning to invest more in online reputation management in 2016. I anticipated this number to be much higher and see this as a travel trend that will go higher in future years. There is simply too much at stake for service providers to not actively manage these channels.