Charting the rise of the connected traveler: 17 stats you need to know

From navigating new locations, to finding somewhere good to eat or retrieving details about booked accommodations, reliable internet access is a crucial part of the travel experience. But the demand for data doesn’t just start when the plane lands — today’s passengers are demanding ever more control over their connectedness, in turn shaping how travel brands communicate with them.

In this blog post we’ll discuss the rise of connected travel and share some statistics that shed some light on the ever-increasing importance of mobile data — and how technology is evolving to meet consumer demands.

The advent of the ‘single travel token’, which fast tracks passengers through the airport using biometric and biographic information, signals a move towards a seamless, stress-free walkthrough experience. Airports are being equipped with the technology to offer more personalized experiences and updates, from alerts on flight delays and gate changes to tailored retail offers, all delivered to their passengers’ fingertips through their mobile devices.

The significance of the internet for travelers has also transformed the way people plan and execute their trips. Formerly reliant on travel agents, guidebooks, and word-of-mouth, travelers now use smartphones to access travel information and book vacations. According to Statista, global mobile travel sales are projected to reach $1.1 trillion by 2030.

Social media has also left an indelible mark on the travel industry, influencing destination choices based on the "Instagrammability" of locations or TikTok recommendations. A 2023 survey from Expedia Group found that 35% of passengers say they look to social media for travel inspiration, with 60% of Gen Z and 40% of millennials using platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for travel purposes.

• 80% of travelers consider internet access to be “essential” or “very important” when choosing travel destinations (Hilton 2024 Trends Report)
• 78% of Americans said they sought travel inspiration from social media influencers and checked out their stories while traveling (Photoaid, 2024)
• Over half of smartphone users rely on their devices as travel guides to help them navigate new areas and find discounts during their trips (Google)
• Over a billion people actively use Google Maps every month (Gitnux, 2024)
• The Wi-Fi hotspot market is projected to reach $4.7 billion by 2030 (Verified Market Research, 2023)

In a world where staying connected is as essential as the morning cup of coffee, it's no secret that the cell phone is a constant companion for the modern traveler. But despite a growing reliance on the internet, several challenges persist that hinder consumers’ desire for seamless connectivity and can significantly influence their travel choices.

According to a survey conducted by HighSpeedInternet in 2023, poor connectivity or lack of internet could stop 84% of vacationers booking accommodation. Moreover, security risks associated with public Wi-Fi networks, particularly in airports or restaurants, remain a major concern — Forbes reported that 41% of survey respondents experienced compromised information while using public Wi-Fi.

But for many, the biggest barrier to carefree data roaming is the cost:

• 67% of international travelers worry about roaming fees (OnePoll, 2023)
• Travelers can end up paying up to 6 times more for data roaming compared to domestic rates (GSMA, 2023)
• The global roaming tariff market size was valued at $72.65 billion in 2022 and is expected to expand at a CAGR of 6.0% from 2023 to 2030 (Grand View Research, 2023)

The surge in connected travel reflects an undeniable shift in the way modern-day explorers experience and navigate the world. The demand for constant connectivity throughout the travel journey, from planning to arrival, has reshaped the industry and spurred technological advancements. Airports, travel providers, and even destinations are adapting to this digital landscape, offering personalized experiences and real-time updates through passengers' mobile devices.

As travel providers seek to solve their customers’ connectivity challenges and help them access the travel data they crave, eSIM technology is gaining recognition as a game-changer.

Effortlessly enabling connection to the internet without a physical SIM card or being tied to one specific mobile network operator, embedded SIMs are changing the way people stay connected abroad. eSIMs simplify the process of getting online, meaning travelers can use all their favorite apps without having to search for a Wi-Fi hotspot or risk compromising their data. Importantly, this innovative technology also presents significant cost-saving opportunities for globetrotting customers, who now have the freedom to choose prepaid data plans tailored to their specific needs and avoid huge bills on their return home.

Brands who bring eSIM to their customers are also reporting enhanced customer experiences and relationships, in turn fostering heightened loyalty and increased revenue opportunities. To find out more about how your business can support connected travelers, get in touch.