
THE HOTTEST TRAVEL TRENDS FOR 2022
People will still be nervous about flying and will choose ‘low travel’ – transport low to the ground. Road, train and ferry travel will all be popular. These modes of transport allow travellers to physically distance more so than on aeroplanes.
Staycations
Many people have realised that exploring their country can be just as rewarding as a foreign holiday, and less stressful too. Add to this continued travel restrictions, countries closed to tourists and the uncertainty surrounding international travel and staycations will continue to be a popular holiday option in 2022.
3G travel
3G travel stands for three-generation travel. One of the top travel trends in 2022 will be multi-generational travel where children, parents and grandparents all go on holiday together. Many families will have been separated for long periods – over two years for some – so 2022 will see lots of reunion holidays where the extended family can get together and spend quality time with each other.
Bleisure travel
We used to associate this type of travel with young ‘digital nomads’ but now it’s becoming a trend with people of all ages in many different industries. Bleisure travellers are people who extend work trips into mini-vacations or take a business trip where friends and/or family tag along or join the traveller when the work part of their trip is finished.
Wellness
During the past 19 months, self-care and wellness were a priority and necessity for many. This is a trend that will continue into 2022 as people seek out holidays where they can relax, rejuvenate and recharge. Spa hotels, relaxation and yoga retreats, fitness and camps – travel that increases a sense of wellbeing – will be big business in 2022.
Walking holidays
The past 19 months saw lots of people take up walking and running as part of their daily exercise regime, and mental health care. As a result, many people have discovered or rediscovered their love of the great outdoors
Sustainable Travel
two-thirds of consumers consider sustainable travel a priority, and 37% of respondents think opportunities for travellers to be involved in the preservation of tourist destinations will help the industry to become more sustainable in the long term.
Active Ecotourism
A growing number of operators are promising to go beyond carbon offsetting and offer a measurable and positive impact on the environment. B. Journeys was set up to help travel businesses measure their environmental and social impact and support them in gaining BCorp certification.
Tech-Empowered Travel
Will Be Essential Additionally, contactless technology will continue to bring ease to the travel experience. Travel companies have embraced innovative tech solutions to keep travellers safe and provide instant access to help and information. Contactless check-in and boarding, the ability to order food or services via the app, or concierge support through Whatsapp or chat are all solutions that provide extra peace of mind to a traveller.
Slow travel
However, trips will be for a longer period and travel will be slower as holidaymakers look to enjoy as much of their destination as possible. They will take things a little slower and go to fewer places on a trip. People will travel more meaningfully and consciously than ever before. So, instead of rushing around ticking everything off a sightseeing list, travel will be more about how you do things and less about how many things you do.