Global Travel Industry Trends for 2022
Our analysis decided to examine the forecasts that will majorly impact global tourism and hospitality in 2022. Given the severity of the COVID crisis, these insights are much more than travel trends; instead, they are values and principles that will guide the industry towards a healthier and more sustainable future. So here are some essential travel trends we expect to see in 2022, ranging from information by innovation to the increasing importance of the travel company. Global Travel Industry Trends for 2022
We’ll take a look at the travel trends and values that will affect the industry by 2022.
A technologically enhanced travel experience will be essential
Throughout 2022 and beyond, technology will play an increasingly important role in travel. As the public is kept informed and guided concerning all travel decisions, technology solutions will play a pivotal role in maintaining vaccine passports digital and providing real-time travel notifications.
Testing requirements, quarantines, and forms will still vary between countries, as many of them welcome back vaccinated travellers. Therefore, to support travellers throughout their trip, it will be crucial to provide precise and current international travel requirements and timely updates for changes in travel conditions. Global Travel Industry Trends for 2022
Contactless technology will also continue to improve the travel experience. Travel companies have adopted several new tech solutions to keep travellers safer and provide immediate access to assistance and information. As a result, travellers have more peace of mind with technology such as contactless check-in and boarding, ordering food and services via apps, and concierge support through Whatsapp or chat.
Several AR/VR technologies are also gaining importance in the future, including virtual tours of resort suites, aircraft cabins, museums, and attractions. Researching a destination and planning a trip is made easier with these technologies
The importance of personalization and guidance
Additionally, travel needs should be addressed by expert guidance for all aspects of a trip. Trip planning used to be as simple as reading travel reviews or browsing the web, but now travellers have more to consider. For instance, how has vaccination distribution been going in this country? Is there a mandate for restaurants or theatres? As a result, making a daily itinerary is now a challenging and overwhelming process for many travellers.
Travel companies can meet this need. Travellers will invest extra care into planning their trips – and expect individualized assistance from the brands they use as a service for their travel. Health protocols per attraction and crowd-avoiding tips will be some of the things travellers need.
Travel companies can do this by rethinking digital strategies and travel marketing strategies, integrating destination-specific content into their apps, social media, and websites, and providing authoritative information to keep travellers safe. The result is that companies no longer serve as just a connecting point but also provide advice and support along the way.
Prefered Accommodation Choice and Experiences in 2022
Enhancing travel experiences will be top of mind for travellers in 2022. A holiday in the great outdoors offers both rest and socially disconnected explorations, which is why many travellers want to reconnect with loved ones. As a result, there will be a focus on adventure travel, hidden treasures, dream destinations, and opportunities for nature-focused activities such as skiing, hiking, bird watching, photographing. Global Travel Industry Trends for 2022
And when it comes to accommodations, cleanliness and security are a must. Over half of the respondents, according to a recent survey by the European Travel Commission prefer to stay in a hotel or independent resort rather than renting a short-term apartment or staying in other accommodations.
Strong brand recognition ensures that essential health measures are in place. These elements, along with new nature experiences, support the traveller’s journey even further. Great news for Swiss tourism!
By highlighting cleaning protocols, wellness programs, and eco-friendly excursions, resorts can engage 2022 travellers. In addition, hotel chains with off-resort accommodations – like vacation rental homes or cabins – might offer clients a place with a little more space and privacy, plus the same expert cleaning and customer service one would expect from a resort hotel.
Sustainability once again high in 2022
The travel industry is moving towards sustainability, especially in the airline industry. Low-carbon travel trends will continue to grow as travellers become more aware of organizations’ environmental initiatives. Google took the first step in providing travellers with the possibility to explore sustainability insights,
The travel community will increasingly expect transparency on sustainability initiatives from travel entities. International travellers are concerned about reducing their carbon footprint and enjoying holidays responsibly as they become more aware of climate crises. A handbook on encouraging sustainable tourism practices has been published by the ETC.
Tourists will seek out organizations focused on sustainability and innovation. The travel industry must connect with travellers on all these points of concern, from small initiatives like plastic-free containers to progress in reducing carbon emissions.
Summary
Although we are still uncertain about the future of travel after almost two years, we can at least see a glimmer of hope on the horizon after nearly two years of uncertainty. 2022 will continue to be a year of travel requirements, health and cleaning protocols, safety measures, and sustainability. However, as travellers begin to dream about long-distance travel, there will still be a focus on outdoor experiences and socially distant destinations.
‘Contactless’ technology will be a trend next year, and companies will need to focus on providing more guidance and personalized support to travellers through digital experiences and innovative approaches.
All those projections are good news for Switzerland.
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