Google on what the travel industry will look like by 2040

New research from Google and Deloitte predicts a staggering 60% increase in international travellers by 2040

Google analyzed billions of search queries and more than 90,000 data points from the past 50 years in its latest study of global mobility trends. This analysis reveals significant economic connections and enduring trends that will shape the future of travel.

In its "Travel 2040" vision, Google predicts that international travel will skyrocket to nearly 2.4 billion trips per year. But the research goes beyond numbers to offer strategic insights with the potential to reshape the travel industry, from identifying emerging travel hotspots to understanding travelers' changing preferences.

Key takeaways

• By 2040, new leading source markets-regions from which travelers originate-will emerge, with India, China, and the U.S. becoming the fastest-growing markets among the top five;
• Indian travelers, in particular, are expected to quintuple by 2040, driven by an increase in passport ownership and streamlined visa processes. Known for their digital savvy and quick decision-making, they typically book international flights with an average lead time of less than 50 days;
• The U.S. remains a strong source market. U.S. travelers currently drive 10% of European travel demand and represent 40% of non-European travelers within the region. Highly brand-conscious, 78% of U.S. travelers are willing to pay more for brands they trust;
• The travel landscape in 2040 will be shaped by both the origins and destinations of travelers. Spain is predicted to overtake France as the most visited country in the world, although the competition between the two remains close. In addition, Mexico will enter the top five global destinations, signaling a shift in popular travel locations.

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