Top Three Social Media Trends for 2023

January 18, 2023

 For travel companies, social media can be the gateway to the globe.

Social media has changed how we connect with each other and influences how we view the world. For travel companies, social media can be the gateway to the globe.
How often have you seen an Instagram reel and planned a trip around the video or photos of someone else's experience? Social media can be a powerful motivator and influencer when it comes to travel decisions.

Statistics back up this phenomenon; according to research, 86% of people have researched a destination after being inspired by other users’ posts online. This rises to a staggering 92% for the Gen Z generation.

If you’re planning your social strategy for 2023 and beyond, here are three trends you need to be aware of to make the most of your social media marketing.

Video still reigns supreme.

Video for travel companies is an indispensable marketing tool. Want to show off a destination in all its glory? Video is the way to go, and it doesn’t hurt that 75% of Instagram users take action after viewing a video ad.
Also, DIY storytelling that is authentic and allows travellers to experience a destination through the eyes of someone who has visited, has more impact than glossy ads on whether they will visit a destination. 

79% of people say user-generated content (UGC) impacts their decision to travel to a destination.

TikTok is the place to be

If you’re trying to reach Gen Z and millennials, there’s no better place than TikTok, as roughly half of its users are under 34.
Available in 150 countries, TikTok has over a billion active users and has been downloaded more than 2.6 billion times worldwide. It specialises in short-form video that lends itself to beautiful and aspirational travel content helping you showcase exotic destinations worldwide.

As proof of its increasing popularity for travellers wanting to explore new destinations, the hashtag #tiktoktravel has over 25 billion views, and #wanderlust and #traveldiaries have 1.1 and 2.2 billion views, respectively.

At the height of the global pandemic, Tourism New Zealand wanted to engage their Australian audience, so it launched an online gameplay walkthrough of the country to allow Australians to experience New Zealand from the comfort of their own homes. TikTok was a big part of their strategy for the Play NZ game.

The video had 2.7 million impressions, an engagement rate of 3.73% and a view-through rate of 2.64%.

If you can master the nuances of TikTok by understanding the type of content that works and what other brands in the travel sector are doing, your chances of success are higher. 

The importance of Social Analytics 

Tracking your social media activity's impact on your sales and brand is essential to figuring out what worked and what failed. The raw data you accumulate over time will eventually tell the story of your growth as a social media marketer and the increasing engagement you achieve for your travel brand.
However, what social analytics should you be tracking?

  • Engagement - Are people commenting, saving and sharing your social posts, or just scrolling on by and ignoring you? You may have a million followers, but if only 1000 interact with your posts, it’s not a great return on your efforts.
  • Reach - How many people are you reaching with your social posts week in, week out? Is this number growing or stagnant? Ideally, you should aim for steady growth rather than occasional fits and starts.
  • Reviews and ratings - How do travellers view your travel company and the destinations you send them to? Positive reviews are powerful social proof that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Social media allows you to leverage the power of video and your customer's user-generated content to inspire future travellers to book their next holiday with you. Being original and innovative on social media will increase your engagement, reach and market share.

A close up of a computer screen with a graph on it.
February 21, 2025
There's a wealth of information at your fingertips that can enhance your travel experiences through data-driven marketing strategies. In the modern age, your preferences and behaviours serve as valuable insights for travel brands aiming to cater to your specific desires. By understanding how data shapes travel marketing, you can better navigate choices that resonate with your interests, ultimately leading to more enriching journeys. In this post, we'll explore how data influences the travel industry and how you can harness this knowledge for your next adventure.
A mountain range with trees in the foreground and a field in the background.
February 20, 2025
Marketing your destination effectively can lead to unforgettable travel experiences for your visitors. By understanding your audience and tailoring your offerings, you can create unique journeys that resonate with their desires. This post will provide you with actionable tips to enhance your marketing strategies, ensuring that your destination stands out in a competitive landscape. Elevate your approach and draw travellers in by focusing on personal connections and enriched storytelling.
A woman is wearing a virtual reality headset and headphones.
February 14, 2025
There’s no denying that digital innovations are transforming the way you travel, making your experiences more immersive and personalised than ever before. From virtual reality previews of destinations to AI-driven travel planning tools, technology is fostering your wanderlust and enhancing the journey itself. As you navigate the future of travel, discover how these advancements not only streamline logistics but also enrich your connections to the places and cultures you explore.
A family is standing on a pier overlooking the ocean at sunset.
February 13, 2025
Choices abound in the ever-evolving landscape of holiday planning, and as 2025 approaches, families like yours will encounter a myriad of options. From traditional festivities to unique experiences, the way you select your holidays will be shaped by emerging trends, economic considerations, and new technologies. Understanding these developments will empower you to make informed decisions that enhance your family's enjoyment and connection during the festive season. Join us as we explore the exciting array of holiday choices that await you in 2025.
February 5, 2025
This exciting addition means Travelgenix users can now sell TUI holidays online with ease , giving customers access to one of the UK’s most popular package holiday providers.
February 3, 2025
Over time, you can leverage LinkedIn groups as powerful platforms to enhance your online travel business. Engaging in these communities allows you to connect with potential customers, share valuable insights, and build your brand's credibility. By strategically participating in discussions and sharing your expertise, you can drive traffic and interest towards your offerings. This post will explore the 10 effective ways you can harness the potential of LinkedIn groups to truly elevate your travel venture.
January 30, 2025
Static travel websites can often become a missed opportunity for engagement and revenue. You can transform your site into an interactive platform by incorporating real-time availability and booking capabilities. By using tools like Travelgenix's widgets / apps, you empower visitors to easily research and book accommodations, flights, and experiences relevant to their travel plans. This not only enhances user experience but also maximises your monetisation potential, turning your website into a dynamic revenue-generating hub.
January 28, 2025
Marketing your travel website effectively requires a solid SEO strategy that can enhance your visibility and attract potential travellers. You must focus on keyword optimisation , ensuring you target the right terms that your audience is searching for. Additionally, incorporating high-quality content that resonates with your readers can establish your authority and encourage engagement. Don't underestimate the importance of mobile optimisation as many users search for travel options on their phones. By understanding these strategies, you can boost your site’s ranking and drive more traffic, ultimately leading to increased bookings and customer loyalty.
January 27, 2025
Understanding Email Marketing A effective email marketing strategy allows you to reach your audience directly in their inbox, providing targeted content that aligns with your travel offerings. It's a form of digital communication that involves sending tailored messages to a subscriber list, with the goal of promoting your travel website and engaging potential customers.
January 26, 2025
It's important for you to understand that local SEO can significantly enhance your travel website's visibility in a highly competitive market. By implementing effective localisation strategies, you can attract more visitors who are actively searching for travel options in your area. This provides a unique opportunity to improve your online presence and connect with potential customers who are less than a few clicks away. Prioritising local SEO not only boosts your rankings on search engines but also fosters trust and relevance among travellers looking for their next adventure.
Show More