Travel Monthly Round-Up: September

We’ve seen a lot of change in the travel industry in the past few months, as well as some creative ideas for destinations to recover -- as we’ve spotlighted in our bi-weekly Travel Takeaway Tuesdays. 

As DMOs and destination marketers begin to prepare marketing strategies for 2021, we’re keeping our pulse on the latest travel industry trends through our new monthly round-up series. 

Here’s what we’re talking about this month:

How Leisure Travel Has Changed

According to a survey done by Expedia Group, 9 in 10 travelers are making leisure travel decisions based on health/hygiene protocols. In addition, family leisure travel and “friends and family” travel are tied in the recent Expedia Group survey. As the U.S. has seen this past summer, domestic travel has been difficult due to travel restrictions. Travelers have been altering their plans to visit family and friends who they trust. As a destination, how can you accommodate their needs and health concerns?

Source: Expedia Group

Updating Messages on CDC Guidelines

Many destinations have been working hard to keep travelers up-to-date on CDC guidelines. We’ve all seen signs to “Wear Your Mask,” and “Wash Your Hands.” It’s important to keep your destination’s messaging updated with messages from the CDC, especially as we prepare for the fall and winter seasons. Think about other ways to incorporate health and safety messages with your brand’s messaging; like incorporating them into your 2021 travel guides and other materials. 

Source: Expedia Group 

Being Mindful on Social Media 

The past few months have shown the importance of social media for destination marketing. For the fall season, continue to use it to connect and educate your audience. Show the right behaviors, such as people visiting your destination while wearing masks and social distancing. Get creative and share COVID-19 tips for your destination in Instagram and Facebook stories. And lastly, be wary of scheduling content too far out. There is still so much uncertainty for the future of coronavirus and travel that it’s best not to schedule content too far in advance.

Source: Destination Think!

2021 is just around the corner, so it’s time to plan ahead. Consider subscribing to our newsletter and scrolling through our blog for new marketing ideas and strategies to help you plan for the future.

By Bethany, Social Media & Public Relations Strategist | September 22, 2020