How Inflation is Reshaping the Way People Plan Their Getaways
As the cost of living continues to rise, travelers are making strategic decisions to keep their vacations both enjoyable and affordable. According to a recent article by TravelPulse, there’s been a clear uptick in both shoulder season travel and last-minute bookings—two trends that reveal a broader shift in consumer priorities.
Key Takeaways
1. Shoulder Season Travel is Hot
Travelers are increasingly booking in the spring and fall months to take advantage of lower prices and fewer crowds, a win-win for both cost-conscious consumers and destinations looking to extend seasonal revenue.
2. Last-Minute is the New Normal
Gone are the days of year-in-advance planning. Many travelers are booking closer to their departure date, often hunting for the best possible deal or simply waiting until their budgets allow.
3. Prioritizing Value Over Extravagance
Budget awareness doesn’t mean people aren’t traveling—it just means they’re shifting preferences. Flexibility, affordability, and authenticity are becoming more appealing than luxury and prestige.
Why It Matters
For destinations and travel marketers, these trends open up new opportunities. Marketing efforts that highlight off-season perks, promote last-minute availability, and position experiences as high-value (even if lower cost) will resonate more than ever.
Need help adapting your marketing to these emerging trends?