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
In 2025, price will be the top priority for 36% of all travelers, with vacationers across generations seeking to stretch their budgets. HomeToGo’s 2025 travel survey reveals that 51% of Gen X participants prioritize value for money when selecting a destination, with similar focus among Baby Boomers (39%), millennials (32%), and Gen Z (22%). 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 70.9% of survey respondents ranking reviews as the most important indicator. Additionally, 62.3% value clear and accessible key information, and 57% 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 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, 26.3% of travelers only book accommodations that offer free cancellation, while a further 27.4% are willing to pay extra 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 are increasingly planning off-peak getaways, with 45% of respondents opting to avoid peak seasons and crowded destinations. This shift is driven by budget-consciousness and climate concerns, with 35% of travelers, particularly millennials (42%), adjusting their travel plans to avoid extreme weather events such as heatwaves.
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 the United States. To participate in this survey, respondents had to be 18 or older. 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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