The Top Travel Trends For 2023

After a difficult year dealing with inflation, you'd expect travel percentages to decrease in 2023. However, we are seeing just the opposite. The number of people travelling is up by 20%, with airline bookings reaching an all-time high. Hotels in popular destinations are having difficulty keeping up with demand, as more people are choosing to travel this year than in the past. It seems that people are determined to make up for lost time in 2020.

According to Forbes Advisor, "A resounding 87% of survey respondents expect to travel at least as much as they did in the prior year, with 49% selecting that they expect to travel more."

With that being said, let's look at 3 travel trends that we are seeing this year in 2023.

The Rise of "Set-Jetting"

If you have ever felt inspired watching one of your favorite television shows or movies to travel to a specific location - this would be set jetting. However, you can also experience set-jetting from social media. If you follow influencers or travel bloggers, you can feel itchy feet to travel somewhere after being exposed to it on social media.

According to American Express Travel 75% of respondents have been inspired by social media to travel to a specific destination while 64% of respondents agree that they have been inspired to travel to a destination after seeing it featured on a TV show, news source, or movie.

My twin sister is obsessed with the Vampire Diaries and two summers ago, she and her friend visited Covington, Georgia where the series was filmed.

Sustainable Travel

Another trend we are seeing in 2023 is sustainable travel.

There is a growing awareness of the need for sustainable travel among travelers everywhere. This is due to the increasing realization of the negative impacts of travel on the environment. People are now looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and lessen the environmental impact of their travels. This includes opting for public transportation or carpooling, choosing eco-friendly accommodation, and making an effort to reduce their waste.

Travelers are also seeking to support local communities by buying locally made products, participating in conservation activities, and supporting projects that promote sustainable tourism. This helps to ensure that the tourism industry is sustainable and benefits local communities.

A study by World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), Trip.com Group and Deloitte shows an increase for sustainable tourism among travelers, with 69 percent of travelers actively seeking sustainable travel options.

Solo Travel

In the last travel trend on the rise, solo travel is becoming more popular. People are now more comfortable with travelingalone as it allows them to explore a destination at their own pace and enjoy freedom from any social obligations. Solo trips are also great for self-discovery and for connecting with locals and other travelers in a more meaningful way.

According to Travel Weekly, "EF Go Ahead Tours has seen a 200% increase in solo traveler bookings since the start of the year, compared with the same time period of last year. And those traveling are booking early: In June 2022, solo travel bookings for this year were already up by 120%, compared with the same period of 2018 for 2019 travel."

These statistics show that solo travel is becoming increasingly popular. This is likely due to people's desire for more control over their travel experiences and the freedom to explore without having to worry about the needs and wants of others, but also self discovery.

When you solo travel, you get to go where you want when you want. You can also make new friends, gain new experiences, and have an adventure that is completely unique to you. Plus, it can be a great way to challenge yourself and build confidence. I personally have been looking a trips to take by myslef but in a group setting. EF Tours has a solo travel group going to Greece this summer and I would love to go.