Four travel tribes for 2033
Excited Experientialists
This group has a “try it and see” approach to life and travel. 44 per cent are without children and have a mid- to high-income job with flexible working options, which enables them to readily explore the world.
They have a “you only live once” (YOLO) approach. They are more likely than other travellers to act on instinct, making them 2033s “anti-planners”, favoring less predictable and more exciting accommodation experiences.
They are also open to technology that helps them “speed up” certain aspects of their journey, with many expecting to use artificial intelligence (AI) in the airport environment.
Memory Makers
Say “hello” to a more simplified approach to travel – to make memories and visit places. 44 per cent of Memory Makers are aged 42 and over and are habitual in their travel behaviors. The future can be a daunting prospect for them.
They put people first and place less value on technology and sustainability, reassured by existing methods. However, despite their skepticism about technology, they are excited about virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) preview tours with the majority expected to use VR tours before purchasing a trip.
Travel Tech-fluencers
Encapsulated by today’s young business travellers with a forward-looking perspective on life, 48 per cent of this group is under the age of 32 and their perspective is symbolised by how much technology they own.
However, there is a discord when it comes to what excites and concerns them around the future of technology and travel. While many want to travel sustainably, it seems they are more conscious about sustainability options around their method of travel, rather than where they’ll be staying.
Pioneering Pathfinders
Individuals in this group live a fast-paced life, always looking for their next adventure. Their life is in full swing with 82 per cent between the ages of 23 and 41. They like to plan but are not afraid of risk and are open to new experiences.
This group is more willing than others to let sustainability influence their decisions. They will also be very comfortable using all forms of alternative payment methods in 2033, whether via cryptocurrency or within a virtual reality environment.
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Jack Miles, lead researcher and senior director at Northstar, says: “Future predictions are difficult, especially in travel. This is because travel is about humans and how they think and behave – all of which are complex as people aren’t always rational.
“However, using extensive traveler research based on behavioural science and consumer psychology, expert insight from diverse fields like forecasting, technology and academia, and data-analytics, this study has uncovered many insights to help understand travelers and predict their future behaviour.
“From the importance and challenge of sustainability to the need to reassure travelers about the changing role of technology, one thing is clear, travel will continue to play a vital role in enriching our lives as we head towards 2033.”
by Olivia Palamountain | GLOBETRENDER