5 Big International Travel Trends for 2020

Last updated on 18 February 2020

In 2010, most travelers couldn’t have accurately predicted how travel would change in just 10 years. Technological developments have drastically impacted travel, tourism and hospitality. The collective mindset of travelers has also shifted. Airports, airlines, hotels, cruise companies and more have noticed these changes.

As a result, the overall travel landscape has changed along with major trends. For example, people are making attempts to travel more consciously, minimally and for the experience—not the showcase. Travelers are making their way around the world with seemingly more purpose.

Which travel trends will be the most impactful in 2020 and beyond? FlightHub and JustFly chime in below.

Roads Less Traveled:

For years, the world’s top destinations lists have featured the same popular countries: Spain, France, Germany, Japan, Indonesia, the UK, Australia, Italy etc. In 2020, this may change. Travelers want to avoid crowds and high prices. They want more unique photos and memories. A recent survey by a popular travel brand reported many travelers want to help reduce over-tourism as well.

Fit Travel:

Wellness and fit lifestyles have seen a resurgence in the past decade. Travelers want to see the world while looking and feeling their best. From walking tours, to water sports, cycling to several other activities; fitness will play a big role in travel. Expect to see more travel companies offering products and services to accommodate a growing demand for movement.

Ancestral Travel:

The public has had access to ancestral DNA testing for some time. Travel businesses have recently begun to curate experiences based on family lineage. A 2019 MIT report showed that nearly 30 million people have taken DNA tests.

With Airbnb’s partnership with 23andMe, a DNA testing company, it’s easy to see how travelers could set off in search of their origins. DNA-related travel is here to stay.

Spartan Travel:

What does spartan travel mean? In simple terms, it’s an indifference to comfort and luxury. It’s when digital abstinence meets minimalism. Spartan travelers typically visit new destinations with nothing but absolute necessities.

For the duration of a trip, they’ll use analogue items instead of smart devices. For example, instead of a tablet, bring a book. The purpose of this type of travel is to reconnect with themselves and the world. This type of travel is about physical and mental freedom.

Accommodation Hybrids:

In response to Airbnb, large hotel chains have begun building properties that cater to travelers who want more of a local experience. They’re run like hotels but have the personal touch of apartment rentals.

Unlike traditional hotels, these hybrids were created to look and feel like the city they’re in. This means travelers can visit several properties belonging to the same company and have different experiences each time.

Guests retain access to around the clock customer support. The amenities remain specific to the brand, but the typically bland feel of some hotels is replaced with something more inspirational.

Technology is changing at alarming rates. The world isn’t the same as it was 10 years ago, or last year. The ideologies of travelers are evolving. As a result, the way people travel is changing as well. To stay relevant in their respective industries, travel companies are adapting to the trends listed above and many more.