A leading hotel technology provider has revealed key insights into evolving booking behaviour in the UK, USA and the Republic of Ireland for the first quarter of 2025, indicating a 7% growth in smartphone bookings and a last-minute planning spike.
Data from Net Affinity’s extensive client portfolio has revealed a series of key trends in booking patterns which hoteliers can use to maximise their strategies for the forthcoming months.
For hotels in the Republic of Ireland, there has been a significant surge in mobile bookings, with 59% of bookings coming from smartphones alone in April 2025 – up from 52% in April 2024.
Additionally, bookings made within 7 days of arrival have risen by 4% in April 2025 from 23% last year, highlighting a shift toward last-minute travel planning.
The data also revealed that bookings originating from the Republic of Ireland declined by 2%, while those from the UK and Northern Ireland increased by 7%.
In contrast, bookings from the USA decreased by 4%. However, despite bookings from America decreasing marginally, there is encouraging growth anticipated from July to September.
As mobile booking continues to be the preferred mode for travellers, Net Affinity’s data reinforces the importance of mobile optimisation. Hotels that utilise mobile-friendly booking engines will benefit from a higher rate of conversion and improved revenue.
William Cotter, Founder and Managing Director of Net Affinity, said: “These shifts in booking patterns highlight the need to understand and keep pace with changing consumer behaviour.
“The rise in mobile bookings and the increase in short-term bookings are trends that will not be easily reversed, and hoteliers need to make sure they are well-equipped to respond.
“Our mission is to continue assisting hotels with the knowledge and tools that will enable them to remain ahead of the curve with these trends, enhance their customer experience and, ultimately, drive their direct bookings.”
