Guest Post: Elevating every mile - wellness-inspired travel from gate to getaway

Ryan Pearson, regional manager for UK & Ireland of Booking.com, shares the OTA's insights based on its research

2024 was the election year, with more people heading to the polls around the world than ever. On top of that economic turbulence and the increased cost of living has meant pressures from many directions for global travellers.

No wonder travel has become essential for so many, offering not just a break but a pathway to improved wellbeing. Our Travel Prediction 2025 report looked at travellers across 33 countries to understand their expectations for 2025, a clear message emerged: wellness and comfort are high on the agenda, with travellers eager for experiences that make journeys simpler and more rejuvenating.

For businesses in this space, it presents an opportunity to stand out by aligning with next year’s wellness trends that address the needs of travellers holistically, from start to finish. Understanding these evolving priorities will be critical to thriving in the year ahead.

Comfort starts before take-off

Today’s travellers want their wellness journey to begin long before they board the plane. In fact, more than a third of travellers (34%) are specifically drawn to destinations with ‘airport appeal’. Take Singapore Changi (SIN), where waterfalls, rock climbing, and art installations make waiting for a flight feel like a part of the holiday. For many, it’s the airport experience that can make or break the trip.

The flipside? Less impressive airports mightactually deter travellers. In our survey, 60% said they’d feel more excited and relaxed if airports offered better facilities pre-departure. With expectations rising, airports have a vital role in creating a travel experience that prioritises comfort and convenience from the outset.

Prioritising wellness

Wellness has climbed the priority list for travellers who see their trips as an opportunity to reset and focus on health and mindfulness. They’re particularly drawn to treatments that revive and restore, with half saying they’re interested in deep rejuvenation experiences like body vibration therapy (56%) and red light therapy (52%). More notably, 67% plan to continue these treatments at home, making their vacations not just memorable but life-enhancing.

Accommodation providers offering on-site wellness options immediately stand out in online searches. But even without in-house facilities, hotels can partner with local spas and wellness centres to create exclusive packages. This approach signals to travellers that wellness is woven into every aspect of their journey.

Travelling inclusively

For many neurodivergent travellers, comfortable travel experiences haven’t always been accessible. A striking 49% of surveyed neurodivergent travellers reported negative travel experiences due to their needs not being accommodated.

One way to make neurodivergent travellers more comfortable is by providing sensory rooms – a resounding 68% of neurodivergent respondents stated they would like to see these across their travel experience. Sensory rooms provide a therapeutic space where individuals with sensory processing challenges can self-regulate and relax. Further, 74% also said they are seeking more ‘block out noise’ options when booking their holidays. As a travel provider, offering this service would demonstrate a genuine commitment to your guests' wellbeing.

Shaping the new travel experience in 2025

As we look to 2025, travel expectations are changing. Meeting these new standards is not just a chance to enhance the travel experience—it’s essential in an era where feedback spreads instantly online.

By embracing these wellness trends and responding to travellers’ nuanced preferences, the industry has an opportunity to create journeys that are meaningful and transformative, enhancing lives long after the trip is over.