Six Travel Trends of 2021

As vaccines become readily available in most states, the excitement to get back to exploring new travel destinations is at an all-time high. Uniglobe Travel Designers is anticipating this year to be filled with new best practices and a bit of “growing pains” as the travel industry re-regulates. To help you safely prepare for upcoming travel plans, Uniglobe Travel Designers has six trends to keep an eye out for in 2021.

1. Attention to Sanitation

Travel partners are continuing to sanitize all surfaces, wear masks, maintain social distancing, and provide a clean and safe experience for all travelers on the go.

2. Earlier Bookings

In 2020 airlines slashed the number of flights per day to match the plummeted demand with worldwide quarantines. Now that demand is steadily increasing, the supply has not quite caught up yet. Airlines need to forecast what is needed, reinstate flights, and hire back employees – which may take some time. To ensure your seat is reserved, Uniglobe Travel Designers recommends booking your flights earlier than you normally would.

3. Increased Flight Fares

With the limited supply and high demand mentioned above, expect higher fares! Confirming your plans can help ensure you find the best value possible. This trend is not just for larger cities or specific market. Smaller markets are not exempt from limited availability and higher rates – plan accordingly! Confirm your plans far in advance to ensure you are receiving the best value for your trip.

4. Limited Car Rentals

Limited availability and higher pricing is also trending with rental car companies. In 2020, most rental car companies sold their inventory. Many people who normally relied on public transport felt safer purchasing or leasing vehicles. Rental car companies took note and saw an opportunity to generate some revenue when travel was disrupted. Now that travel is opening up again, they find themselves with limited fleets and will need some time to rebuild to meet returning demand.

5. Climbing Hotel Rates

To try and supplement revenue lost, prices throughout the industry will be inflated. While it is normal for hotel rates to increase 2-3% per year, we are anticipating an increase as high as 11% between 2021 and 2022.

6. Increased Use of Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is one of those things you hope to never use, but are so relieved to have it when you need it (You can even read some of our travel insurance tales here). Since the start of the pandemic, travel insurance companies started providing more options for travelers so you can find the best plan for you.

Now more than ever, it is important to plan ahead and stay up to date on the most recent travel updates. Continue being safe, exercise a little extra patience, and do not forget to reach out to Uniglobe Travel Designers to help plan your next getaway.

About Uniglobe Travel Designers

Uniglobe Travel Designers is a minority, women owned, award winning, full service, travel management company specializing in both corporate and leisure travel. Offering over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, our mission is to be the leading and most dependable travel management company in the world, thereby setting the standard for professionalism and reliability to its clients. Available through OMNIA Partners, Public Sector, Uniglobe Travel Designers offers a cooperative contract for participants to save time and money when it comes to travel management services. To view more OMNIA Partners cooperative contract, click here.