Top tech trends transforming travel businesses in 2025

Forget one-size-fits-all itineraries. Travel businesses need to be diving into AI-powered personalisation to create experiences that feel tailor-made for each traveller. Apps now harness real-time data to:

• Suggest destinations based on past bookings or browsing behaviour.
• Offer hyper-personalised promotions that boost booking rates.
• Anticipate customer needs, like recommending local dining spots or providing weather updates.

Did you know: Research from Accenture shows that 91% of consumers are more likely to shop with brands that provide relevant offers and recommendations.

With AI-enhanced apps, you’re not just meeting customer expectations - you’re exceeding them.

Why juggle multiple apps when one can do it all? Super apps are gaining traction as travellers demand the simplicity and convenience of everything they need being in one place. Imagine booking flights, reserving accommodations, organising excursions, and managing loyalty points - all within a single app.

For travel businesses, super apps represent an opportunity to:

• Increase customer engagement by integrating services into one platform.
• Build brand loyalty through exclusive in-app features.
• Offer monetised add-ons, such as travel insurance or VIP upgrades.

Brands like WeChat and Grab are already proving the model works, and the travel sector is next in line to adopt this powerhouse trend.

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) aren’t just for gamers anymore - they’re redefining how people plan and experience travel. AR-enabled apps can:

• Help users visualise hotel rooms or rental properties before booking.
• Offer virtual walkthroughs of landmarks or attractions.
• Enhance guided tours with interactive, location-based overlays.

Did you know: A survey by Statista revealed that 87% of travellers find AR and VR tools helpful when planning trips.

Adding AR and VR to your app can give your business a cutting-edge appeal and help customers feel more confident in the travel decision-making process.

Image source.

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessity in this day and age (especially when it comes to nurturing your Gen Z audience). Apps are stepping up to help travellers and businesses make eco-conscious choices. For example:

• Carbon tracking apps let travellers offset their journeys in-app.
• Booking platforms prioritise eco-friendly accommodations.
• Real-time public transport integrations encourage greener travel options.

Why it matters: A Booking.com report found that 81% of global travellers want sustainable travel options. By integrating sustainability features, your app can attract this growing segment of eco-savvy customers.

Long lines at airport check-ins and hotel receptions are quickly becoming relics of the past. Biometric authentication and contactless tech are speeding up travel processes, improving security, and creating happier customers. Apps now enable:

• Facial recognition for seamless boarding.
• Digital room keys to skip check-in queues.
• Secure in-app payments that eliminate the need for cash or cards.

The integration of these features ensures smoother journeys for travellers and builds trust in your brand’s commitment to simplifying their journeys and security.

Image source.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is bridging the gap between the physical and digital travel experience. IoT-connected devices paired with apps can:

• Notify travellers of delayed flights and suggest alternative options.
• Adjust hotel room settings (temperature, lighting) based on guest preferences.
• Provide luggage tracking updates directly to a user’s smartphone.

Did you know: GlobalData predicts the IoT market in travel will grow to $28 billion by 2027, showcasing the potential for businesses to invest now and reap long-term benefits.

The pandemic reshaped how travellers think about health and safety, and 2025 continues to see demand for wellness-driven apps. Travel businesses can use these to:

• Provide real-time updates on destination-specific health regulations.
• Offer wellness packages, like spa appointments or fitness classes.
• Integrate features for tracking hydration or jet lag management during trips.

While global travel remains popular, many travellers are exploring hyperlocal experiences. Apps that cater to niche, community-driven adventures are thriving. These apps can:

• Highlight hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
• Support local businesses with partnerships and promotions.
• Provide cultural insights to deepen traveller connections.

By tapping into the hyperlocal trend, travel businesses can position themselves as advocates for authentic experiences.

The common thread across these trends? Apps. They’re not just tools; they’re a foundation for transforming operations, deepening customer loyalty, and unlocking new revenue streams. By embracing these innovations, your travel business can stay competitive in a forever-changing landscape.

So, as you plan for 2025 and beyond, ask yourself: Is your business ready to lead the charge, or will it get left behind? The future of travel is here, and it’s powered by apps.