6 upcoming trends that will revolutionize your summer travel

The upcoming Memorial Day weekend is set to kick off the busiest travel season in almost 20 years, with nearly 44 million people in the US expected to hit the road, marking a 4.1 percent increase from 2019, according to the American Automobile Association. This surge in travel comes as a result of pent-up demand and a desire to make up for lost time due to the pandemic.

The Transportation Security Administration is also gearing up for a record-breaking summer, with expectations to screen over 3 million passengers in a single day for the first time. This spike in travel is not limited to the US, as global tourist numbers are projected to return to pre-pandemic levels this year, according to the World Economic Forum.

As travelers prepare for their journeys, they can expect to see major industry changes, including the continued integration of AI in travel planning tools. Companies like Expedia Group Inc. are deploying AI travel assistants to help craft tailored itineraries and troubleshoot travel disruptions.

Additionally, the cost of international trips is on the rise, with travelers expected to spend over $9,000 per person this summer. To offset these expenses, travel insurance comparison engines like Squaremouth recommend insuring only essential expenses to reduce overall policy costs.

Furthermore, the travel industry is making strides in accessibility for individuals with disabilities, with hotels like Virgin Hotels and Hyatt Hotels implementing programs to cater to neurodivergent travelers. Technology companies like Google are also expanding accessibility features in apps like Google Maps to assist travelers with disabilities.

Overall, the travel landscape is evolving rapidly, with last-minute bookings on the rise, luxury all-inclusive resorts pushing further into the market, and hotel prices increasing across major cities globally. As travelers gear up for the summer season, they can expect a mix of new trends and challenges in the travel industry.