Look Out for These Travel Trends in 2021

"The 2021 Upgrade," a recent report from Hotels.com, has revealed that 89% of U.S. travelers intend to be more impulsive once various pandemic-related concerns have passed. According to the report, more than a third (35%) of travelers are likely to drop everything to vacay if they can in 2021.

"2020 was the year of staying home, postponing trips and posting old vacation pictures on social media. This year, travelers are ready to 'seize the stay' when travel returns and they feel comfortable to take the trips they missed out on," shared Josh Belkin, vice president, global brand at Hotels.com. 

These two trends will be key in 2021, as revealed by Hotels.com. 

Hotel Upgrades

Travelers have been craving the hotel life, with respondents saying they especially miss:

• peace and quiet (30%)
• hotel restaurants and bars (29%)
• rooms with a view (26%)
• breakfast buffets (23%)
• visiting the hotel pool (20%)
• ordering room service (18%)
• comfy hotel beds (18%)
• treating themselves to the hotel spa (17%)
• relaxing in a plush robe (13%)

As a result, many will be looking to upgrade their hotel experiences this year. When asked what new experiences they would say "yes" to, about 20% said they'd splurge on a spa treatment, uber-luxe hotel restaurant or a fancy cocktail in the hotel bar. 

Spontaneous Stays

Travelers will look for ways to "seize the stay" as much as they can, with nearly one in five stating they would spontaneously book a fancy hotel for a staycation for the weekend or take advantage of a mid-week deal at a local trendy hotel. 

In addition, about one third reported that not having to plan makes them feel carefree and relaxed, with 29% claiming they'd be ready to drop it all and leave the same day if given the opportunity.