Published 15 January 2024

Key Travel Trends Shaping the Industry in 2024

In 2024, several evolving travel trends are expected to significantly influence the industry landscape. Here, we explore the most notable trends reshaping the way we travel.

1. Set-Jetting: A New Way to Travel

Set-jetting is the practice of planning trips inspired by destinations featured in TV shows and movies. Although this concept isn’t entirely new, its popularity surged during the pandemic when many potential travelers turned to television for escapism. According to recent surveys, more than half of travelers have researched or booked a trip after seeing a location on screen. Remarkably, these on-screen portrayals have a more substantial impact on travel plans than social media endorsements.

2. Destination Dupes: Affordable Alternatives

Destination “dupes” are gaining traction as travelers seek less crowded and more budget-friendly alternatives to popular locations, a trend that has been popularized by platforms like TikTok. Some enticing alternatives include:

• Taipei, Taiwan (instead of Seoul, South Korea)
• Pattaya, Thailand (as a substitute for Bangkok)
• Liverpool (for a taste of London)
• Quebec City (instead of Geneva)

This trend encourages travelers to stretch their budgets while avoiding the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.

3. Tour Traveling: Concerts as Destinations

Tour traveling is an emerging trend where travelers journey specifically to attend concerts. Following events featuring global stars like Beyoncé and Taylor Swift, nearly 70% of travelers express a heightened willingness to attend concerts outside their hometowns, providing both a musical experience and an opportunity to explore new places.

2024 Airfare Trends

Airfare is projected to decrease slightly during the first half of 2024 compared to the same timeframe in 2023, remaining lower than pre-pandemic prices. January is anticipated to be the optimal month for booking flights, with prices likely to experience an increase in spring and summer.

Factors contributing to this anticipated price relief include:

• Increased capacity among airlines
• Lower jet fuel prices

As per estimates from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), around 4.7 billion passengers are expected to fly in 2024, marking a rise from 4.5 billion in 2019.

As we navigate 2024, these travel trends will shape the industry, influencing how travelers approach their next adventure.

For those interested in exploring more about changing travel dynamics, consider looking into reputable travel blogs and resources that focus on contemporary travel insights.