In 2019, our team of four editors collectively traveled 400,000 miles, giving us a great view of the travel world. As we step into a new decade, we’ve combined travel trends, research, personal experiences, and our own coverage to explore how travel has evolved over the past ten years—considering factors like Instagram, budget airlines, and the sharing economy—and where it’s headed in the 2020s and beyond. (Spoiler: Africa might be on your itinerary, and you could find yourself in a self-driving car!) —Laura Ratliff, Jamie Hergenrader, Elizabeth Preske, and Sherri Gardner
Remember when planning a vacation meant ticking off must-see attractions like the Mona Lisa in Paris or capturing Big Ben in London? Times have changed. Airbnb’s expansion in 2011, followed by the launch of Airbnb Experiences in 2016 and Airbnb Adventures in 2019, shifted focus towards more local and authentic travel experiences. Now, there are over 40,000 Experiences across 1,000 destinations. Instead of queuing at the Louvre, you might find yourself strolling through Montmartre with a local.
Budget airlines like Southwest have been around for decades, but the 2010s marked a peak for low-cost travel. Airlines like WowAir in 2011 and Norwegian’s transatlantic flights in 2013 forced traditional carriers to slash prices, making travel more affordable than ever, with one-way flights as low as $30. However, the environmental impact of air travel has led to the “flight shaming” movement and a resurgence in train travel, which many now find more convenient and enjoyable, offering spacious seats and scenic views without the airport hassle.
The tourism industry’s shift towards sustainability is noticeable. Major hotel chains like Marriott, Hyatt, and Hilton aim to reduce plastic waste by replacing small shampoo bottles with larger ones. Many hotels now offer rewards for skipping daily housekeeping, allowing guests uninterrupted stays and less fuss.
While Airbnb and Uber remain popular, recent controversies have encouraged travelers to consider alternatives. The rise of low-touch apartment-hotels, which blend Airbnb’s style with hotel amenities, is trending. Companies like Bode and Domio are expanding in this space. Meanwhile, Google’s Waymo is set to revolutionize urban travel with its self-driving cars.
Instagram, launched nearly a decade ago, quickly became a platform for marketing, creating new opportunities—and challenges—for influencers. Despite concerns about transparency and authenticity, the platform has fostered virtual communities and new ways to connect with like-minded travelers.
In 2010, the recession left many favoring “staycations” over distant travels. However, with the economy recovering, time has become a more limited resource. “Bleisure” trips—business trips extended for leisure—and short weekend getaways are growing in popularity as people look to maximize leisure within limited timeframes.
Travelers are increasingly spontaneous, thanks to last-minute deal apps. Services like Scott’s Cheap Flights and HotelTonight offer tempting discounts, while companies like Pack Up + Go handle travel planning entirely, leaving the destination a surprise.
The film “Eat Pray Love” influenced a shift toward seeking personal growth through travel, with women leading the trend in solo journeys. Bali, a focal point of the film, has seen a steady increase in tourism.
While the 2010s saw Asia thrive as a travel hotspot, the Middle East and Africa are emerging as new destinations of interest. Dubai leads with its modern allure, and Saudi Arabia and South Africa are becoming more accessible. With new direct flights making Africa more reachable, now is a fantastic time to consider planning a Kenyan safari or Nile cruise.
With record numbers in global tourism, popular destinations like Iceland and Venice are feeling the strain, prompting travelers to explore lesser-known alternatives, a trend known as “second city” travel.
Pet travel is on the rise, as hotels cater to guests and their furry companions, offering unique amenities for pets. Grandparents are also reshaping travel norms by vacationing with grandchildren, often opting for adventurous trips that inspire multiple generations.
Finally, food has become a central part of travel experiences, with social media driving travelers to meticulously plan dining experiences, while also embracing unique culinary events and pop-ups.
Air travel has become more enjoyable, with airlines offering enhanced services and faster security processing. The travel landscape is ever-evolving, adapting to the changing desires and expectations of travelers around the world.
