Why apps are the secret to thriving in travel

Imagine being able to cut the chaos out of your operations. That’s what the right app can do for you. From automated booking systems to real-time updates for your team, apps simplify the complex logistics that come with running a travel business.

For instance:

• Flight delays: Apps like TripIt and FlightAware provide instant updates, keeping travellers informed and reducing your team’s workload.
• Staff coordination: Tools like Sling help schedule shifts, track hours, and manage communication across teams in multiple locations.
  

A survey by Skift found that 64% of travel businesses reported increased operational efficiency after adopting mobile technology. It’s not about replacing your team; it’s about giving them the tools to work smarter, not harder.

Loyal customers are the heart of any successful travel business. But in an industry with endless options, standing out takes more than just offering discounts. It takes creating meaningful connections. Apps can help you create those connections by offering personalised experiences, loyalty programs, and instant support.

Here’s how:

• Personalised itineraries: Apps can use customer data to offer tailored travel suggestions, making users feel understood and valued.
• Exclusive rewards: Offer points, perks, or discounts through an app-based loyalty program. According to a Bond Brand Loyalty study, 81% of consumers say loyalty programs make them more likely to continue doing business with a brand.
• Instant assistance: Live chat features ensure travellers can get support whenever they need it, wherever they are.
  

What happens when you go the extra mile for your users? Happier customers who return for more - and bring their friends along.

It’s no secret that the travel industry’s revenue streams are increasingly becoming more digital. By investing in an app, you’re not just keeping up; you’re opening doors to new income opportunities and future-proofing your business.

Consider these possibilities:

• Upselling and cross-selling: Apps can suggest upgrades, add-ons, or related experiences at just the right moment, increasing your average transaction value.
• In-app purchases: From premium features to exclusive offers, apps give users reasons to spend more.
• Data-driven decisions: With insights from app analytics, you can identify what’s working and optimise your offerings accordingly.

According to Statista, mobile bookings accounted for 60% of all digital travel sales in 2023. If your business isn’t mobile-first, you’re leaving money on the table.

Need proof that apps work? Here are some examples:

• LeShuttle: Their app (built by us) enhances the travel experience by tracking journeys, sending GPS-triggered notifications, providing timely updates, and offering post-trip recommendations and feedback opportunities.
• Hilton Honors: Their app allows guests to check in, choose their room, and even unlock their door with their phone. This convenience has driven a 20% increase in loyalty program enrollments.
• Airbnb: Their user-friendly app makes listing, booking, and managing stays effortless, helping them grow into a $100 billion company.
• TUI Group: By integrating app-based trip management, TUI has seen higher customer satisfaction and a reduction in operational costs.

The travel industry’s future is digital, and the shift is happening fast. Gen Z and millennials - who account for over 60% of global travellers - expect mobile-first solutions. If your business isn’t meeting them where they are, you’re missing out.

Investing in an app isn’t just about staying relevant; it’s ensuring that you're future-proofing your business. By adopting mobile technology now, you’re setting yourself up to adapt to future trends and customer demands.

Apps aren’t just a nice-to-have anymore - they’re the key to thriving in travel. From enhancing your operations to deepening customer relationships and driving revenue, the benefits will speak for themselves.

At The Distance, we specialise in creating apps that elevate travel businesses and create unforgettable experiences. Let’s work together to build a solution that meets your unique needs and sets you apart in a competitive market. Get in touch today!