Want to know what's in store for the world of vacation rentals? HomeToGo has released its 2025 Travel Forecast, revealing 4 travel trends predicted for the year ahead. Based on a depth of survey and search data, 2025 will be a year defined by extended getaways, with trust and flexibility being top of mind for our guests. Learn how you can leverage these trends to ensure travelers book their stay with you.
Trend 1: Thrifty Trips
Price is the most important factor for 37.5% of respondents when choosing a travel destination in 2025, although there are slight differences between the generations. At 41%, 25-34 year-olds are the most price-conscious, followed by 45-54 year-olds (40%), 18-24 year-olds (39%) and 55-65 year-olds (37%). The 35-44 year olds pay the least attention to price (31%). This focus on affordability signals a shift towards more cost-conscious decision-making in vacation planning.
Tips for Property Managers: Assess your property’s features and amenities to set competitive rates. Strategic discounting, bundled offers, and promotional pricing can help attract budget-conscious travelers, boosting occupancy and ensuring you meet diverse guest needs.
Trend 2: Trust is key
Trust remains a critical factor when booking vacation rentals, with 76.3% of survey respondents ranking reviews as the most important indicator. Additionally, 74.1% value clear and accessible key information, and 52% prefer a well-known, recognizable provider. In an industry where trust is paramount, maintaining transparency and reliability can significantly enhance your property’s appeal.
Tips for Property Managers: Encourage guests to leave reviews by offering incentives or personalized follow-ups. Make sure your booking software automatically syncs guest feedback with platforms like HomeToGo and check that reviews are prominently displayed to reassure potential guests.
Trend 3: Flexibility is the new loyalty
Cancellation policies are a deciding factor for travelers in 2025. According to our survey, 29.9% of travelers only book accommodations that offer free cancellation, while 23.6% are willing to pay for partial or full cancellation options. Flexibility in booking terms is becoming an expectation rather than a bonus.
Tips for Property Managers: Regularly update your cancellation policies to meet guest expectations. Offering flexible options like free or partial cancellation can improve your booking rate, especially as guests seek peace of mind in uncertain travel conditions.
Trend 4: Delaycations
Travelers will increasingly extend their vacations from the typical summer high season to the low season. More than 40% of respondents are planning trips outside the peak season to avoid the crowds and save on their budget. Climate concerns also support this trend: 27.6% of travelers adjust their travel plans to avoid extreme weather events such as heat waves.
Tips for Property Managers: Keep your calendar updated with accurate availability and open it at least 18 months in advance to capture early demand. By doing so, you can attract travelers looking to book well ahead of time, especially those aiming for off-peak or climate-friendly stays.
Methodology:
Survey insights are based on research conducted by HomeToGo among a sample of 800 respondents in Germany. The survey was carried out online between September 3, 2024 - September 5, 2024. Respondents were able to select multiple answers across a number of questions.
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