Travel Trends for 2024

Are you eager to kick off your 2023 travel adventures? Us too! We've analyzed the data to reveal what we predict will be the key travel trends for next year. From budget-friendly hotspots to the destinations poised to trend, here’s what you need to keep in mind for your upcoming travels.

Popular Destinations.

In 2022, travelers were more than ready to explore, with destinations around the globe experiencing a tourism resurgence. The phenomenon of ‘revenge travel’ was undeniably real, and it shows no signs of slowing down in 2023. So where will everyone be traveling this year? We have some informed insights.

Destination of the Year: Asia and the South Pacific.

In 2022, our feeds were filled with stunning snapshots from London, Paris, and the Amalfi Coast as US travelers resumed their journeys. For 2023, we expect a shift as adventurers explore new destinations in Asia and the South Pacific. According to our data, here are the locations we believe will be the talk of the town:

Top 10 Trending Destinations for 2023

Our Insights: Travelers are set to flock to must-visit spots in Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand in 2023, likely due to these locations finally reopening their doors to visitors. Are you already eyeing flights? We have fresh data on the best times to book—keep reading for more information.

*Dinogo US analyzed round-trip, economy flights for search dates from January 1 to November 20, 2022, with travel dates from January 1 to December 31, 2023. To calculate year-over-year percentage changes, similar search dates in 2021 and travel dates in 2022 were used. We applied search volume thresholds and excluded destinations with insufficient search volume.

Which destinations are more affordable? You’re getting closer…

Did you miss out on travel in 2022 due to soaring flight prices? We understand—fares this past year were sky-high (and this trend might continue into 2023, but we'll discuss that later). That's why we've analyzed our data to identify which destinations are experiencing significant drops in flight costs:

Destinations Becoming More Affordable Compared to Last Year

Destinations Becoming More Affordable Compared to Three Years Ago

Our Insights: You may have noticed that Melbourne and Sydney also appear on the list of top-trending destinations. While flights to these cities are typically pricey, 2023 is expected to offer lower-than-average fares, making it a great time to plan your trip to 'down unda.' Additionally, if Bora Bora is on your radar, our data indicates that flights there are now more budget-friendly than they have been in years.

*Dinogo US analyzed round-trip, economy flights for search dates from January 1 to November 20, 2022, with travel dates from January 1 to December 31, 2023. To calculate the year-over-year percentage change in airfare, similar search dates in 2021 and travel dates in 2022 were examined. To find the three-year percentage change in airfare, search dates from 2019 and travel dates from 2020 were used. Search volume thresholds were applied, and destinations with insufficient search volume were excluded.

On a budget? Here’s where you can travel.

If you’re looking for affordable flights, consider a city getaway closer to home. According to our data, airfare to these popular US destinations allows you to explore more while spending less:

North American destinations with the lowest average fares

Looking to utilize your newly-renewed passport without breaking the bank? It’s possible—our data suggests these budget-friendly international travel options for 2023:

International destinations outside North America with the lowest average fares

Dinogo US analyzed round-trip, economy flights for search dates from 1.1 to 11.20.2022 and travel dates from 1.1 to 12.31.2023, focusing on the lowest average airfare. Search volume thresholds were applied, and destinations with insufficient search volume were excluded.

Trends in flight searches.

The search for flights continues.

Inflation made its impact felt in 2022, affecting many of our budgets. However, travelers have persisted in their flight searches, even if it means spending a bit more. Here are three observations about search behaviors and what these trends might indicate for 2023:

• Travel interest remains strong. It’s evident that travelers are determined not to forgo their long-awaited trips. Flight searches—both domestic and international—are up for 2023 compared to 2022 (25% increase for domestic and 64% for international).
• Solo travel is becoming increasingly popular. More travelers are eager to embark on solo adventures. Searches for individual flights have risen by 36% for 2023 compared to 2022.
• Desire for extra comfort. Travelers are seeking to upgrade their experiences. While all flight classes are experiencing heightened interest, premium economy is particularly in demand. Searches for these seats have increased by 64% for 2023 compared to 2022.*

Key insights: Flight searches in 2022 for travel in 2023 rose by 46% compared to searches in 2021 for travel in 2022, indicating strong demand for travel this year. Travelers are actively planning both domestic and international trips, showing no signs of slowing down. 

*Dinogo US analyzed round-trip, economy flights for search dates from 1.1 to 11.20.2022 and travel dates from 1.1 to 12.31.2023. Year-over-year percentage changes were calculated using the same search dates in 2021 and travel dates in 2022. 

**Dinogo US looked at round-trip, economy flights for a single traveler for search dates from 1.1 to 11.20.2022 and travel dates from 1.1 to 12.31.2023.

***Dinogo US evaluated round-trip flights across various airfare classes for search dates from 1.1 to 11.20.2022 and travel dates from 1.1 to 12.31.2023.

Airfare prices are soaring.

Let’s be honest – the flight price hikes we experienced in 2022 are likely to continue into 2023. But does that mean we’ll stop traveling? Definitely not! Especially since we have the data to help make these higher costs a bit more manageable. Here’s what you can anticipate regarding flight price trends:

• Increased demand = increased prices. With more people searching for flights, prices rise accordingly. In 2023, both domestic and international flight prices are up compared to 2022 (52% for domestic and 29% for international).
• Regions with minimal price hikes. While flights from the US to various global destinations will see increased prices for 2023, the South Pacific (+3%) and Europe (+10%) will experience the smallest increases.
• Travel mid-winter. Expect flight prices for both domestic and international trips to rise through June, so planning early in the year could save you money. Notably, international flights departing in February drop by 8%, making it an ideal month for travel.*

Key insights: The data indicates that travel demand remains strong – despite soaring flight prices (up 52% for domestic and 29% for international), US travelers seem undeterred from their adventures.

*Dinogo US analyzed round-trip, economy flights for search dates from 1.1 to 11.20.2022 and travel dates from 1.1 to 12.31.2023.

Optimal days to book for better prices.

The timeless question of when to book flights for the best deals never has a simple answer. This is largely due to the ever-changing nature of data. For 2023, there are several insights to consider regarding your booking timeline. Based on our findings, here’s what to look for:

• Travel on these days of the week. Thursdays and Fridays are worth your love—they often offer more affordable airfare*. Our historical analysis reveals that the lowest prices are typically available for flights departing on these days.
• Peak travel periods. Travelers tend to maximize their extended holiday breaks, with December showing the longest trips. Our data also indicates that the highest volume of travel occurs in June and July*.
• Advance bookings are on the rise. Compared to 2021, the windows for booking both domestic and international flights have increased (9% for domestic and 7% for international). Domestic flights are usually booked 42 to 46 days in advance, while international ones see a booking window of 62 to 66 days ahead, respectively.*

Key insights: To snag better deals, aim for flights that depart on Thursdays or Fridays, and try to avoid the busier travel months of June and July if possible. Planning ahead for your bookings is also advisable. Here’s a breakdown of when to book based on your destination:

*Dinogo US analyzed historical flight data for searches between 1.1.2022 and 11.20.2022 for travel from 1.1.2022 to 12.31.2022.

Hotel trends.

Fluctuations ahead.

While flights may experience price hikes next year, hotel prices might not follow the same trend—it largely depends on your destination. An increasing number of travelers are looking for international accommodations, suggesting that domestic travelers are likely opting for familiar places. Curious about what this means for nightly rates? Based on our findings, here’s what to expect for your lodging in 2023:

• Contrasting trends. The statistics for domestic and international stays tell a different story. While domestic hotel searches saw a 5% drop year-over-year and nightly rates rose by 8%, international hotel searches increased by 4% and nightly rates dropped by 6% year-over-year.
• Looking to stay local? Head west. The western regions generally offer more budget-friendly options. If you want to keep your hotel expenses down while staying in the US, the Northwest and Southwest areas may present the best prices.
• International bargains. In line with popular destinations, affordable international hotel options are available in Asia, the South Pacific, and Europe. Many of these rates can compete with those found in the US.*

Key insights: There’s a noticeable shift as travelers seek hotels abroad rather than domestically. Although nightly rates for domestic stays have risen slightly, they are now comparable to the reduced rates of international accommodations.

*Dinogo US analyzed standard, double-occupancy hotel searches from 7.1.2022 to 11.20.2022 for travel dates ranging from 1.1.2023 to 12.31.2023.

Affordable lodging options.

North American destinations with the best rates*

International destinations with the best rates*

Key insights: Most of the North American destinations with budget-friendly nightly rates are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, making them perfect for those who love nature. Meanwhile, international locations with economical hotel options are found in regions likely to experience minimal increases in airfare. This could mean a more cost-effective trip to those bucket list locations, despite the overall rise in flight prices.

*Dinogo US analyzed standard, double-occupancy hotel searches from 7.1.2022 to 11.20.2022 for travel dates from 1.1.2023 to 12.31.2023. Only destinations with sufficient search volume were included in the analysis.

Trends in rental cars.

Declining demand for rental vehicles.

Rental cars have had their own set of challenges regarding search interest and pricing. The past year was tumultuous for those seeking a ride, largely due to lingering demand and limited inventory from 2021. As these issues fade, we anticipate a stabilization in rental car searches and rates. Based on our data, here’s what to expect in the rental car market over the coming year:

• Increased interest internationally. Searches for domestic rentals have dropped 21% year-over-year, while international searches have surged by 41%.
• Renter preferences are clear. Luxury seekers are in luck, as searches for luxury car rentals rose 25% YoY. Meanwhile, there’s a growing demand for sustainable options, with electric vehicle rentals climbing 136% YoY.
• Compact cars reign supreme. This category was the top choice among renters in 2022, suggesting continued interest in these vehicles into 2023.*

Key insights: The demand for rental cars is expected to decrease by 3% in 2023 compared to 2022. However, specific vehicle types, especially EVs, are gaining traction and may remain popular as fuel prices stay elevated.

Dinogo US analyzed rental car searches from 7.1.2022 to 11.30.2022 for travel dates between 1.1.2023 and 12.31.2023. Year-over-year comparisons of car categories were made using the same search dates in 2021 and corresponding travel dates in 2022. 

Rental prices reflect search trends.

Not only is search interest declining, but rental prices have also dropped over the past year. While average daily rates for domestic rentals have decreased by 7% year-over-year, international rental prices have surged by 12% year-over-year, aligning with the 41% increase in search interest for international rentals. Here’s a look at destinations where drivers can expect lower average daily rental rates:

North American destinations with rental bargains

International destinations offering rental deals*

*Dinogo US analyzed rental car searches from 7.1.2022 to 11.30.2022 for travel dates spanning 1.1.2023 to 12.31.2023. For year-over-year percentage changes, the same search dates in 2021 and travel dates in 2022 were referenced. Search volume thresholds were applied, and destinations with insufficient search volume were excluded.

That was… quite a bit of information, even for data enthusiasts like us. The key takeaway from all these insights? Rising costs won’t deter travelers from exploring the world. Keep in mind, we have tools and tips ready to help you navigate these challenging times, chase your dream destinations, and seize the day. Subscribe to our weekly newsletters for more on the latest travel trends and updates (and we promise, they won’t be as lengthy as this post).