New Expedia Group/Wakefield research on what travelers value reveals interesting insights. A key finding is that more than half of travelers want to book—and will spend more on—properties with environmentally friendly policies.
Today’s travelers shop with their values
Sustainable approaches draw travelers who will spend more
Our research shows that 59% of travelers (nearly 3 in 5) are willing to increase spend to make a trip more sustainable, and 64% of millennials are more likely to consider sustainable options at least some of the time.
This broad interest in sustainability, and the willingness to spend extra on it, shows this issue is top of mind for many, especially younger travelers. So how do you capitalize on this desire and ensure your property is environmentally friendly?
Reduce waste
- Eliminate single-use plastics – consider glass or refillable shampoos and soaps
- Provide reusable cleaning cloths
- Supply a reusable shopping tote
- Convey recycling and compost availability & provide clearly marked bins
Increase efficiency
- Install a smart thermostat, low-flow showerheads, and LED lightbulbs
- Install energy-efficient appliances
- Turn down your water heater
- Clean appliances regularly, including refrigerator coils, dryer filters, and air ducts
- Seal cracks and gaps in doors and windows
Share local knowledge
- Share local activities that can be done by bus, walk, or bike in your Welcome Guide
- Promote local vendors and businesses, specifically those sourcing locally like restaurants and farmer’s markets
Smart management
- Encourage your cleaning company to use sustainable products
- If you offer an EV charger, note it on your listing (including the wattage); if you don’t offer an EV charger, consider listing local charging stations
- Create a digital guidebook vs a printed one. You could put QR codes in your rental for travelers to scan and host the information online.
- Make sure your listing highlights the steps you’ve taken to make your property more sustainable
Take action today to capture this growing demand
Update your listing to ensure your property is positioned to attract the growing number of travelers looking for environmentally friendly, sustainably managed properties.
Want to learn more about what travelers value? Download the 2021 Traveler Value Index to discover how values have shifted due to the pandemic, and how they vary across different geographies, age group, and travel experiences.
