Industry Deep Dive: Travel
From white sand beaches to snow-dusted mountain peaks, today’s travel industry is brimming with opportunities—not just for exploration, but for branding. Every stay, every adventure, and every souvenir-worthy moment is a chance to connect with travelers in a meaningful, memorable way. Whether it’s a cozy Airbnb or an adrenaline-packed excursion, there’s space for promotional products to make a lasting impression. Let’s dive into the destinations, experiences, and trends shaping the future of travel promo. THE EXPLORER’S GUIDE TO TRAVEL PROMO
Market Snapshot: Where Travelers Are Headed According to Expedia, the top destinations on travelers’ wish lists span from bustling metropolises to serene natural escapes:
From urban exploration to off-the-grid retreats, each of these locations offers its own unique set of promo possibilities. are eyeing major cities are heading to the mountains plan to visit small towns or villages are craving a beach resort getaway are drawn to rural areas
Why People Travel: Experience Over Everything
It’s no surprise that experience is at the heart of modern travel. More than half of travelers say their primary reasons for hitting the road include: And who’s leading the charge? Millennials. Often referred to as the “experiential generation,” they’re far more likely to spend money on meaningful moments rather than material things. For promo, that means keepsakes and branded items that become part of the journey—not just extras. Source: Expedia Learning about other cultures and communities Boosting physical and mental wellness Becoming a more well-rounded person
After years of uncertainty, travel is roaring back. The U.S. Travel Association forecasted that 2025 would see $316 billion in business travel and $1.35 in leisure travel. Travel Spending Is Back - Big Time
Vacation Rental Management Companies Bed & Breakfasts Glamping Resorts Tour and Experience Companies (wine tastings, cooking classes, surf lessons) Small Brands, Big Promo Potential It’s not just airlines and hotel chains shaping the travel scene. Smaller businesses are creating unforgettable experiences - and they’re ideal candidates for promo support. Think:
Spas and Wellness Retreats Gear Rentals (bikes, kayaks, scooters) Souvenir Shops Local Artisans These are the hidden gems that turn trips into lifelong memories - and promotional products into take-home treasures.
According to Expedia, travelers are looking for more unique souvenirs. 39% of travelers visit a grocery store and 44% shop to find something they can’t find at home. Partnering with a local business to bring specialty goods that can’t be found elsewhere keeps both brands top of mind for travelers. It’s a win/win! The Search for Something Unique
Place to Stay: Where Branding Begins
Airbnb has hosted over 1.5 billion guests since 2007, with millions of stays unfolding in treehouses, urban lofts, and seaside cabins. But Airbnb isn’t just about the space—it’s about the full experience. Hosts can curate branded welcome kits, create personalized touches with mugs or tote bags, or enhance activities with promo products that double as souvenirs. Airbnb Experiences are another major promo frontier. Whether it’s a pottery class or a ghost tour, these hands-on adventures are ideal for small, branded items that tell a story—long after the trip ends. These cozy, family-run getaways offer charm, history, and a slower pace. They’re also perfect settings for branded details— soap bars, embroidered towels, printed t-shirts, or custom toiletries that help guests feel cared for and connected. And since two-thirds of Americans bring back souvenirs from their trips (Source: YouGovAmerica), why not help make those souvenirs promotional? Airbnb & Vacation Rentals Bed & Breakfasts
Branded First-Aid Kits Insulated Water Bottles Clip-On Carabiners for Backpacks Adventure Is Calling: Promo on the Trail From national park hikes to yoga-with-a-view, travelers are looking for excitement - and REI is a great example. Their guided trips and classes highlight the gear people need to explore confidently, and that’s where promo fits in. The same approach applies to whitewater rafting tours, cave expeditions, or desert ATV rides. Small, functional products leave a big impression - especially when they’re snapped and shared on social.
Lightweight Towels Yoga Mat Straps Drawstring Bags for Hands-Free Exploring
Lip balm and silk eye masks for a restful arrival. Scented candles that replicate the mineral spring experience. Personalized beach towels for poolside lounging or spa use. Smaller spas with historic or regional flair benefit especially from branded items that reflect their unique vibe. The wellness boom is real—and growing. Spas that offer everything from deep-tissue massages to crystal therapy are welcoming guests in need of reset and relaxation. That makes them an ideal setting for calm, luxurious promo. Relax & Rejuvenate: The Spa Scene
The travel experience is more than just getting from point A to point B - it’s about discovery, storytelling, and transformation. When done well, promotional products become part of that story. They travel home in suitcases, appear in photo albums, and spark “remember when” moments for years to come. So, whether it’s a branded bag on a glacier hike or a candle from a 1930s-era spa, promo helps brands leave their mark - long after the return flight has landed. Final Boarding Call: Travel Promo That Goes the Distance Source: Expedia (1, 2, 3) | YouGovAmerica | Airbnb | U.S. Travel Association
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