6 Advancements in Tech That Benefit Group Travel Businesses

Changes in technology impact every part of our lives – and group travel is no exception. Technology plays a significant role in helping group travel planning businesses grow by offering a wide range of benefits and opportunities. Let’s do a quick recap of recent advancements in tech that benefit group travel businesses like yours!

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Online Booking Platforms

If you only make one tech change in your group travel business, consider moving to an online registration and payment platform. It’s one of the most efficient updates you can make!

Using an online registration and payment system allows you to

• automatically notify travelers when payments are due
• collect important documents and medical forms in one place
• keep efficient customer records for future use
• communicate your cancellation and refund policies
• offer travel protection

The business of travel now happens 24-7.  Customers want the flexibility to book and pay any time of day or night.  Gen Zers (and probably many Millennials) have probably never written a check.  They aren’t going to drop one in the mail to you to hold their spots on your trip.

Mobile Apps

Mobile apps are convenient and accessible resources for group travel planners and their clients. Apps allow travelers to access itineraries, track flights, communicate with the group, and so much more.

A few of our favorites for groups?

GroupMe is an app that works on every device and functions like a private chat room for your group. It’s free group messaging for quick updates and alerts – perfect for traveling groups.

MyTSA app is a super helpful resource for groups traveling by air.  It gives travelers up-to-date airport info (including how busy your airport might be!) along with tips for what to pack and how to prepare for screening.  It’s great for first-time flyers or seasoned travel pros!

Google Translate is helpful if you’ll be traveling internationally.  It can translate dozens of languages via voice or text.  It even allows you to point your smartphone at a foreign sign or menu and get a live translation.

Google Assistant also has an interpreter mode to help translate a conversation in real-time – very cool for travelers who may not be fluent in the local language!

Splittr lets you ditch the spreadsheets and split your group’s trip expenses.  It works anywhere, in any currency, and allows you to keep track of who’s paid what.

How to Share Costs on a Group Trip

Social Media and Digital Marketing

Digital marketing and social media strategies can help group travel planning businesses reach a larger audience and attract new (and often younger) customers.

Social media is the preferred source of travel inspiration for 35% of all travelers.  That’s more than traditional outlets like newspapers or magazines.

But the influence of social media is much more apparent with travelers under age 40. In fact, 50% of them report that social media is their preferred source for travel info, while 53% of Gen Z loves TikTok, Insta, or other social platforms.

By promoting travel packages, sharing positive customer experiences, and engaging with followers, businesses can increase their online presence and build brand loyalty.

9 Easy Ways to Market Group Travel

AI

As technology continues to advance, AI has emerged as a revolutionary tool in transforming various industries. The travel industry, in particular, stands to gain from the many benefits that AI has to offer.

From improving customer experiences through personalized recommendations and real-time data monitoring to streamlining operations and workflow with staffing solutions like chatbots and virtual assistants, AI has the potential to revolutionize how we travel.

With the help of AI-powered chatbots, travelers can book flights and accommodations with ease. Additionally, machine learning algorithms can provide personalized travel itineraries based on user preferences.

The technology also helps detect and prevent fraud in the travel industry, making it a reliable option for customers. Furthermore, natural language processing allows for seamless communication between travelers and travel companies, enhancing the overall experience.

Unlocking the Power of AI: How Artificial Intelligence Will Transform the Travel Industry

How AI Will Change the Way We Plan Group Travel

AR

Augmented Reality (AR) brings a new era of endless possibilities and activities.  It’s a completely immersive experience using just a smart device that takes you from visitor to active participant.

AR layers virtual elements on top of real images for a thrilling mixed reality.  This past summer, my son spent his 19^th birthday exploring the Greek island of Delos.  Using a smart tablet, he was able to view the actual ancient ruins AND what they looked like in 590 BC.

AR gives us an expanded view of places, cultures, histories, and even foods. Making the most of the AR available in a destination gives us a complete and incredibly satisfying travel experience.

Cloud-Based Collaboration Tools

Current technology allows group tour planners to maximize efficiency through cloud-based software and service.

Learn More About GTO’s Cloud-Based Group Travel Planning Products

Cloud-based technology allows you to structure your business in a way that benefits you, your customers, and your bottom line. It offers

• increased productivity
• online payments and registration
• fast and efficient
• easy access to documents and itineraries
• safe
• budget-friendly

Moving to a cloud-based planning platform is one of the simplest ways to make your group travel business more effective.

Upgrade Your Trip Planning Tech

Advancements in Tech That Benefit Group Travel Businesses

How consumers plan group travel is changing, and group planners need to keep pace or risk being left behind.

By leveraging these technological advancements, group travel planning businesses can streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and reach a wider audience, ultimately leading to their growth and success.