Out with one and done trips, in with multi-destination city jumping adventures planned by an AI travel agent, according to the new WTF – What the Future Travel Trend Report published by travel search engine, KAYAK.
The newly launched report revealed eight predictions for travel by 2030.
In partnership with futures consultancy, The Future Laboratory, the WTF Report blends social and cultural research, interviews with KAYAK executives and external experts, survey insights from 9,100 people across nine countries, and an in-depth analysis of KAYAK user behaviour.
Its first prediction found a new wave of travel agents is emerging, focusing on personalised travel experiences.
Modern travellers seek flexibility (38%), customised itineraries (37%), and value AI tools for planning (17%).
By 2030, virtual AI assistants will handle a variety of travel arrangements, offering tailored trips and securing the best deals effortlessly.
“AI is already rapidly improving customer support for travel delays and itinerary changes. It’s also suggesting personalised recommendations of places to visit and things to do. The next big step forward will be automated bookings – and we’re already making KAYAK AI agent-friendly” – Steve Hafner, CEO of KAYAK.
By 2030, travellers will prioritise multi-stop trips over single-destination vacations. For 66% of survey respondents, travel ranks as a top priority, signalling a growing desire to explore.
As visa regulations relax worldwide, governments and destinations are gearing up for the rise of city-jumping travellers.
Also by 2030, the value of a trip will hinge on wellness scores as revealed by the report.
KAYAK notes a surge in wellness travel, with pools as the top-searched hotel amenity globally, followed by hot tubs, spas, and fitness facilities.
60% of travellers prioritise relaxation, while 13% emphasise health and wellness. Destinations promoting longevity will become sought-after additions to travellers’ bucket lists.
The report went on to reveal that from browsing feeds to booking trips, travellers will use social media as a booking platform.
Currently, 36% of travellers find trip inspiration on social platforms, a trend expected to grow by 2030.
KAYAK predicts social media will shift from inspiration to a full-fledged travel shopping channel, with apps serving as travel storefronts.
By 2030, travel will feature holographic concierges and automatic airfare refunds.
Travellers anticipate virtual hotel room previews (35%) and almost 10% of air passengers expect in-flight VR entertainment for an immersive experience. The future of travel is set to exceed expectations with innovative technologies.
The shift toward unexplored destinations will challenge today’s top travel spots. Concerns over overtourism and carbon footprint (14%) will influence future travel decisions.
The quest for unventured experiences will shift from adventurers to conscious travellers, becoming a mainstream travel priority.
From silent retreats to genealogical investigations, Spiritual Sidequests will have their moment by 2030, with more and more travellers wanting to pair exploring a destination with exploring their inner-self to grow and heal.
Finally, loyalty programmes will adapt to meet the demands of price-conscious travellers.
29% of travellers want personalised loyalty rewards, such as receiving refunds when air ticket prices go down (32%).
With 72% anticipating higher travel prices in the future, travellers are prioritising savings and will switch brands for better deals.
