#USA #San Francisco #holiday travel #travel trends #Sojern

Introduction

As the holiday season approaches in 2025, travel patterns are increasingly reflecting the effects of economic pressures and shifting preferences among travelers. According to recent data from Sojern, a leading digital marketing platform in hospitality, there's a notable trend of holidaymakers opting for closer-to-home trips while also seeking value in their travel choices.

Key Findings

Noreen Henry, Sojern's Chief Revenue Officer, highlights that travelers are making more deliberate decisions regarding their vacations this year. The importance of promoting regional getaways, flexible pricing, and last-minute offers is crucial for travel marketers to capture this evolving demand.

Domestic vs. International Travel

In the United States, approximately 90% of holiday travelers are anticipated to travel by road instead of flying. This shift points to a broader transformation in travel attitudes during uncertain economic times, alongside a significant reduction in long-haul trips. While domestic flight bookings have seen a modest rise of 4%, international bookings have dipped across several popular destinations such as Canada and Mexico.

Regional Trends in Latin America and the Caribbean

The travel landscape in Latin America is similarly influenced by financial prudence. Overall flight bookings from the U.S. to this region have dropped by 8%. Interestingly, Puerto Rico has emerged as a favored destination, surpassing traditional spots like Mexico, marking a 9% increase in bookings.

Changes in European Travel Plans

With the holiday season approaching, European travelers are similarly shifting focus towards short-haul trips, with domestic travel surging by 8%. Bookings to North America are notably down 17%, highlighting the absence of the U.S. among Europe's most sought-after holiday destinations this year. Cities like Budapest and Gdansk are now drawing substantial interest, especially famous for their Christmas markets.

A Busy Season in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)

In the GCC region, particularly Saudi Arabia and the UAE, there is an exciting growth trend in domestic bookings, primarily driven by significant events and urgent infrastructure commitments. While Dubai captures the majority of inbound travel, we can anticipate a surge during the upcoming Formula 1 Grand Prix.

Preparing for Chinese New Year 2026

The upcoming Chinese New Year, which starts on February 17, 2026, is setting the stage for a robust travel season in the Asia-Pacific region. The overall flight and hotel bookings in Asia Pacific are up significantly, reflecting a rebound in traveler confidence. Popular destinations like Hong Kong and Singapore are seeing considerable demand from travelers, thus enhancing cross-regional connectivity.

Conclusion

These insights from Sojern about 2025 holiday travel trends reveal a significant shift toward shorter, more value-driven getaways amid uncertain economic conditions. By adapting to these evolving preferences, travel marketers and brands have a golden opportunity to engage with travelers through targeted offers and promotions. As we move further into the season, flexibility and regional appeal will play pivotal roles in informing travel decisions across the globe. For a deeper dive into these insights and regional breakdowns, visit Sojern's official website to explore strategic recommendations and data-driven resource tools tailored for the travel industry.