5 travel trends to watch in 2017

Some travel experiences are timeless—generations of kids getting giddy over meeting their favorite Disney character at the Magic Kingdom, for example, or the sheer awe of taking in Paris from the gargoyle-guarded spires of Notre Dame. But every year, new trends continue to make travel something always-new and forever exciting. Our industry leaders here at Orbitz flagged these 5 trends as those that will most influence the travel world this year. For a look at the future, read on.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is expected to reshape both business and leisure travel in 2017 and beyond. AI will likely impact business travel more immediately given the predictive and repetitive needs of this audience. When it comes to leisure travel, the focus will be on customer experience and support. The industry is still in the early stages of adoption, but Facebook Messenger is predicted to be the most immediate vehicle for AI in travel. Travelers will be able to search and book a trip or cancel a hotel or flight reservation right in the messaging platform. Brands like Expedia are also exploring the voice based search frontier and considering possible integrations with Amazon Echo.

Basic fares

Airlines such as Spirit and Frontier have long provided air travel with “no frills,” and in 2017, expect major airlines to follow suit. United, American Airlines and Delta have announced plans to offer basic economy fares in the new year. This new ticket option will present passengers with a choice of a less expensive fare, but with a catch—higher prices for amenities such as a carry-on bag or specific seat. Travelers with a resolution to save money in 2017 should definitely keep an eye out for bare bones ticket options.

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Luxury vacation rentals

Travelers have booked vacation rentals for years but in 2017 consumers will opt for more luxurious rentals ranging from villas to yachts and even castles. For instance, travelers willing to spare no expense in Miami can charter yachts starting at $5,000 a night on Orbitz.com. The website also offers travelers the opportunity to live like royalty for a night by booking one of the world’s most luxurious castle hotels. Orbitz.com recommends the Chateau Frontenac in Quebec, which overlooks the St. Lawrence River and doubles as a UNESCO World Heritage Site or Ashford Castle in Ireland, which offers horseback riding, cycling, kayaking, archery and even a falconry program.

Stopover fares

For many travelers stopover fares are the best way to turn a one-stop vacation into a multi-trip experience. In 2017, with airlines actively promoting stopover fares, Orbitz.com forecasts more travelers taking advantage of the long layover. Stopover trips are especially popular for international trips or long distance travel. Some of the airlines offering reasonably priced or free stops for travelers include Icelandair, allowing passengers free stopovers of up to seven nights in its hub city of Reykjavik, and FinnAir offering one free stopover per flight in the hub city of Helsinki and a second stopover at a cost of $100.

Smart luggage

“Remember how airlines used to lose luggage?” That’s a thought we might all have in the not-too-distant future, thanks to the advent of smart luggage. These sophisticated—albeit more costly—suitcases can weigh themselves, charge up your electronic devices and track themselves, so you’ll never lose your luggage again. Look for these bright new bags from makers such as Bluesmart, Away, Raden and—coming soon—PlanetTraveler.