Deloitte: 5 US Travel Trends Expected to Shape the Industry in 2024

Travel frequency and priorities may change in 2024 but higher-end travel products could have a better year compared to budget options, found the “Deloitte 2024 Travel Industry Outlook”, which is seeing a strong travel demand from the US despite the unstable times.

According to the survey, travel enthusiasm for in-destination activities, growing interest in more diverse destinations, the return of baby boomers, and workplace flexibility will be contributing to the positive outlook for the year ahead.

Based on data collected and assessed by Deloitte, the Top 5 travel trends set to shape the industry in 2024 are:

– travel services suppliers will have to find ways to enhance the travel experience despite elevated costs. Airlines and hospitality providers will need to improve the experiences they offer or risk losing travelers’ attention

– US corporate travel spend is likely to finally exceed pre-pandemic 2019 levels within the next year as corporate travel gains ground. However, costs related to business trips are a serious concern

– Remote and hybrid work arrangements will be affecting travel with the number of travelers who plan to work on their longest leisure trips increasing. In addition to adding and extending trips, remote or hybrid work is also affecting travelers’ in-destination needs and preferences

– Marketing will have to now focus on changes in platforms and demographics. As travel growth slows, there will be a greater need for more targeted marketing and for travel providers to build new strategies for a changing landscape

– Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to influence the industry in major ways: more visible applications (new options for discovery, shopping, booking) will garner much of the attention. At the same time, travel providers will have to redesign their advertising strategy, marketing content, and personalization based on new technological developments.