It’s not hard to understand why so many people are actively planning their bucket-list trips right now. Not only are we all eager to get out and experience things, but we want to do it sooner rather than later in case we’re put on lockdown again. But travel has changed dramatically over the last two years, so it's essential we know what to expect. SafetravelRX wants you to be as prepared as possible so that you can take worry off your itinerary. Below are five trends to be aware of before your next getaway.
1. Sticker Shock
As inflation, consumer demand, and fuel prices rise, expect to pay more for flights, food, and hotels. While many countries worldwide are working to curb inflation, expectations are that costs will not go down dramatically any time soon. And that’s especially true within the travel industry, where demand always affects the price. In addition, many companies are still struggling to recoup their losses from the last two years. U.S. hotels alone lost a collective $111.8 billion in room revenue due to the pandemic.
2. Flight Cancellations
With labor shortages, flights are getting canceled a lot more frequently, which will continue in the foreseeable future. There isn't anything you can do about it other than “grin and bear it” and be prepared. If you’re trying to make a connection, allow extra time and even consider spending an extra night in an intermediate location.
3. Limited Hotel Services
Although solid growth is expected in the year ahead, hotels are projected to end 2022 with 2.19 million employees—down 166,000 or 7% compared to 2019, reflecting continued labor shortages. Fewer employees affect everything from concierge amenities to room service to housekeeping. Some resorts are even using robots to assist guests and deliver food.
4. Increased Use of Technology
Many hotels are trying to keep up with customer demand by providing convenient technology solutions such as keyless entry. You can check in with a QR code on your phone or bypass the front desk entirely by choosing your room and checking in ahead of time.
5. Giving Back While Traveling
Studies are showing that many travelers want to make their trips more meaningful. In research data released by Booking.com last year, more than 53% of Americans surveyed said it’s important that their vacation is beneficial to locals. So, travelers can now plan a trip around philanthropic activities through many travel organizers. For example, Abercrombie and Kent can arrange visits to one of their global charitable projects, such as spending a day in Kenya and delivering water filters to schools.
Summary
While travel has undoubtedly changed, don't let some of the more inconvenient changes deter you from booking your next adventure. When you arrive at that exotic location and enjoy that once-in-a-lifetime experience, you'll forget all about the annoyances that it might have taken to get there! Downloading the safetravelRX app can also help by giving you safety alerts, up-to-the-minute destination info and connect you to local pharmacies or doctors if necessary. So, don’t be afraid to get out there and explore. Just be prepared and do it safely.
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