2023’s travel tech trends

Years after the onset of the pandemic, we are still talking about all its after effects. One unexpected result was how the pandemic changed travel tech. As the industry worked to streamline travel in uncertain times, here are a few key areas that changed travel:

Airport Biometrics

Airports and airlines implemented biometrics technology to make for smoother passage through security checkpoints and airports. The technology uses biological data, like a fingerprint or facial recognition to confirm an individual’s identity. Critics note the privacy and data security issues but the TSA is already piloting tech in 16 airports across the country.

Airline Tech

Maybe it’s too soon to joke about December’s Southwest Airlines fiasco, but the airline is already making moves to modernize its tech to avoid a similar disaster in the future. Tech companies are rushing to get their product in front of Southwest and other airlines and save them from costly mistakes.

Hotel Tech

Pandemic-related labor shortages brought attention to the hospitality industry’s outdated tech. More and more hotels are implementing features to mitigate the shortage, including contactless check-ins. Some sexier tech changes that luxury hotels are going for include mobile check-ins, room location selection, and more television streaming services. 

Short-Term Rental Tech 

The short-term rental industry may have slowed down a bit during the pandemic, but that was only a small detour for the booming industry. There’s been an uptick in property management and software services to help hosts and businesses stay organized and consolidate their businesses. This includes an increased focus on business travelers, remote workers, and helping management companies consolidate all their rental sectors. 

Travel Tech in SE Asia 

Southeast Asia has long been a popular, dreamy escape for travelers and even remote workers. The tech, however, is about two or three decades behind when you consider the number of tourists that pass through the area. The region is experiencing a boom of travel tech startups launching new tech. Hopefully, this means smoother and more updated travel tech in the near future.