By Rezdy — 14 Jan 2019

The travel industry is highly susceptible to the ever-changing trends that impact consumer preferences, and this year is going to be no exception. As a tour and activity operator, it’s important that you stay abreast of the latest industry trends and make adaptations at your location when necessary. Here’s 5 key trends for the travel industry that will help your tour, activity or attraction operation succeed in 2019:

#1. Activities are becoming influencers

In the past, it seemed that travelers chose a destination and then began to research the types of activities that were available there. In 2019, however, it’s expected that an increasing number of travelers will select their destination and schedule their trip according to the activities available. To take advantage of this trend, you need to promote your activities as unique and exclusive to your destination. Give the impression that your experience is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that can only be enjoyed in your region.

#2. FOMO is for real

FOMO — the epic condition known as the fear of missing out — is infecting people of all ages across the globe. Social media and all of its filtered glory have given people legitimate anxiety that they are missing out on all that life has to offer, which is leading to an increase in travel across all demographics. People are craving those Instagram-worthy moments, and they are ready to share photos, stream videos and go live to show off their experiences to their followers.

#3. Spontaneity is preferred

It’s well known the the vast majority of tours, activities and attractions are booked fairly last minute. With an innovative tour booking software in place, you can easily promote your products to spontaneous travelers who have already arrived at your destination. In addition, you also can accept and accommodate last-minute bookings.

#4. Solo travelers are jet-setting across the globe

Web in Travel notes that solo travelers increased from 31 percent of travelers to 38 percent of travelers in 2018 alone, and that number is expected to continue to rise in 2019. To welcome solo travelers to your tour company, create social experiences that lend themselves to independent travel. Be sure that your tours are not set up to accommodate only couples, families or groups.

#5. Movies and TV shows are catapulting new destinations to fame

Pop culture has never been more influential in the travel industry. When a movie tops the charts for weeks at a time and features a relatively undiscovered destination, travelers in 2019 will be more motivated to explore that region of the world. Feature films such as “Crazy Rich Asians” have resulted in an influx of travel to Southeast Asia.

Perhaps you can utilize one or more of these key trends for the travel industry in your 2019 business. Get a kick-start  on your competitors, and demonstrate that you are listening to new business drivers that your customers will respond to.

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Image credit: Joshua Coleman