Articles | What economy travellers want - or are at least happy to pay for.

What economy travellers want - or are at least happy to pay for.

Jul 24, 2023

Economy travelers seek value and convenience in their journeys. They prioritize affordable fares while appreciating essential comforts like a clean, safe environment and friendly service. Many are willing to pay extra for options that enhance their travel experience, such as priority boarding, extra legroom, or in-flight meals that cater to dietary preferences. They also value flexible booking policies and loyalty programs that reward repeat travel. Access to technology, like Wi-Fi and charging ports, is increasingly important, as is the ability to customize their itineraries. Ultimately, economy travelers desire a balance of cost-effectiveness and quality to make their trips enjoyable.

When it comes to economy travel, understanding what travelers desire is essential for businesses in the hospitality and travel industry. Today’s economy travelers are more discerning than ever and are willing to pay for certain amenities and services that enhance their overall travel experience. This article explores what economy travelers want and what they are happy to pay for, supported by data and insights from various surveys and studies.

Comfortable Accommodations

One of the primary factors that economy travelers consider when booking their trips is comfortable accommodations. While they may not opt for luxury hotels, they are willing to pay a bit more for a cozy room with essential amenities. Features such as:

Cleanliness
Comfortable bedding
Air conditioning
Free Wi-Fi

are highly sought after. According to a recent survey, 75% of economy travelers stated that they would pay extra for a hotel that guarantees a clean and comfortable room.

Value-Added Services

Economy travelers are increasingly looking for value-added services during their trips. These can include:

Complimentary breakfast
Airport transfers
Local transportation options

A study found that 68% of economy travelers prioritize accommodations that offer complimentary breakfast, as it saves them both time and money. This highlights the importance of providing such offerings to attract budget-conscious travelers.

Flexible Booking Options

In the current travel landscape, flexibility is key. Many economy travelers prefer booking options that allow them to change or cancel their reservations without hefty fees. According to recent findings, 72% of travelers expressed that they are willing to pay a premium for flexible booking options. This trend shows that providing customers with the ability to adapt their plans is crucial in fostering loyalty and improving the overall experience.

Technology Integration

Modern travelers appreciate technology that simplifies their experience. Economy travelers are particularly interested in:

Mobile check-in/out
Digital room keys
Online booking management

Surveys reveal that 60% of economy travelers are more likely to choose a hotel that offers a seamless tech experience. This indicates that investing in technology can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and attract tech-savvy budget travelers.

Experiential Travel

Economy travelers are increasingly seeking unique experiences rather than just a place to stay. They are willing to pay for:

Local tours
Cooking classes
Cultural experiences

A report showed that 65% of economy travelers prefer accommodations that provide access to local experiences and activities. This indicates a shift in focus from traditional sightseeing to immersive travel experiences, making it essential for service providers to offer packages that highlight local culture and activities.

Transparent Pricing

Economy travelers prioritize transparency in pricing. Hidden fees and unexpected costs can deter budget-conscious individuals from making a booking. A survey indicated that 70% of travelers prefer accommodations that clearly outline all costs upfront. This transparency builds trust and encourages travelers to finalize their bookings confidently.

Health and Safety Protocols

In light of recent global events, health and safety have become paramount for travelers. Economy travelers are willing to pay for properties that have implemented stringent health protocols. Key measures that attract budget travelers include:

Enhanced cleaning procedures
Social distancing practices
Contactless services

According to a study, 78% of economy travelers stated that they would choose accommodations that prioritize health and safety, underscoring the importance of these protocols in influencing travel decisions.

Environmental Sustainability

With growing awareness around environmental issues, many economy travelers are choosing eco-friendly options. They are willing to pay a premium for accommodations that practice sustainability, such as:

Energy-efficient systems
Waste reduction programs
Support for local conservation efforts

A survey revealed that 62% of economy travelers are more likely to book a hotel that demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. This trend highlights the importance of aligning services with environmentally conscious practices to capture this growing market segment.

Conclusion

Understanding what economy travelers want is vital for businesses looking to cater to this demographic. From comfortable accommodations and flexible booking options to value-added services and transparency in pricing, there are numerous factors that influence their decisions. By focusing on these key areas, travel and hospitality providers can enhance their offerings and attract more budget-conscious travelers. Ultimately, it is about creating an experience that aligns with the needs and preferences of today’s economy travelers, ensuring they feel valued and satisfied during their journeys.