MCLEAN, Virginia—If 2022 was the year of the changed traveler, 2023 is the year of the evolved traveler. Hilton released its 2023 trends report, The 2023 Traveler: Emerging Trends That Are Innovating the Travel Experience, a Report From Hilton, which reveals the latest consumer expectations following a year when travelers showed up in record numbers. Based on a global survey and analysis of current travel trends, today’s travelers are looking for a balance of technological and human innovations, deeper connections and care, embedded wellness experiences, and more.
“In 2022, motivated travelers sought out new experiences around the world and reconnected with the people and places they love,” said Chris Nassetta, president and chief executive officer, Hilton. “The 2023 Trends Report showcases travelers’ evolving preferences and how eager and optimistic they are about their future adventures. Our Hilton team members are ready to welcome them and create a great stay experience at our more than 7,000 properties worldwide.”
The new report is the result of evaluating both quantitative and qualitative data research paired with insights collected by more than 7,000 travelers across the world in a survey commissioned by Hilton and conducted by Material, a global strategy, insights, design, and technology partner. The research uncovered four consistent themes for 2023 travel, driven by traveler experiences over the last three years.
1People will turn to travel for deeper, more engaging, human experiences and connections.
Travel is a gateway to discovering different perspectives and traditions. In 2023, travelers will focus on travel to create deeper connections with family, friends, colleagues, customers, cultures, and the planet. Nearly half (49 percent) of survey respondents want to be immersed in local culture and products while traveling, and another 40 percent want personalized access to experiences or activities, such as performances, events, spa treatments, or classes.
From destination-focused culinary travel packages to impactful programs like Hilton’s Travel with Purpose, which helps guests impact the communities they visit, travelers are looking to create change through more immersive travel experiences. In fact, Hilton is witnessing signs of this growth through its Hilton Honors Experiences, which saw a 77 percent year-over-year increase in Hilton Honors Point redemption during the first nine months of 2022, allowing members to connect with their passions through artists and celebrity events.
2People will recognize travel as an essential part of their wellness routine.
Overall wellness remains a priority for travelers as half (50 percent) of respondents seek travel experiences in 2023 that align with their wellness goals and priorities, addressing the mind, body, and spirit. For about 1 in 2 (47 percent) travelers, physical wellness and accessibility to fitness amenities like centers or activities will be top of mind when it comes to traveling in 2023. Guests will also seek moments of connection with their communities, as well as insights and solutions that improve their mental and emotional health.
Addressing mental health on the road will be prioritized by 35 percent of global survey respondents. Meanwhile, another 49 percent of those employed will be looking to travel to disconnect from work. Hilton remains committed to meeting the needs of these travelers, and recently announced a partnership with Peloton Interactive, Inc., making Hilton the first hospitality brand to have at least one Peloton Bike in fitness centers across its U.S. hotel portfolio.
3Travelers will want to be taken care of more than ever.
Next year, Hilton anticipates travelers will have a renewed appreciation for being cared for, with 86 percent of survey respondents indicating they want recognition and personalization while on the road and another 25 percent saying they want travel companies to accommodate their personal needs in 2023. Specifically, 54 percent are looking for personalized food and beverage options and 50 percent are looking for personalized experiences and activities.
Travelers know the importance of wanting to feel valued for their loyalty—both in their wallets and as individuals. In fact, 42 percent of survey respondents indicate that loyalty perks—such as earning/redeeming points and loyalty benefits—will matter to them when traveling in 2023. Whether providing guest service for value-driven families or accommodating a pet coming along on vacation, Hilton understands the importance of delivering service to every guest, every time.
4Travelers want frictionless travel innovations that are both technology- and human-led.
The year 2022 uncovered unexpected friction points in travel. Hilton’s global research found that more than half (56 percent) of travelers will prioritize adopting solutions that make travel easier in 2023. Nearly 9 in 10 (86 percent) survey respondents will look for at least one thing to be personalized during their travel experiences and interactions, and 26 percent of respondents anticipate hotel technologies will be important to them.
To reduce travel’s strongest tension points, guests will seek out the most logical and purposeful solutions. They will look for the hospitality and service that they expected pre-pandemic, whether that’s personalized dining recommendations or reservation adjustments. Within the technological innovations, they will continue to embrace efficiencies like Digital Key in the Hilton Honors app, which allows travelers to bypass the front desk and go straight to their rooms, and booking options like Confirmed Connecting Rooms by Hilton, which allows families and friends to reserve adjoining rooms when booking online.
