Travel agents barely make the cut with travellers

An attractive man and woman planning vacation overseas
By Hannah Edensor


Aussies prefer searching for travel products online instead of using face-to-face services, according to new research from Criteo.

In The New Digital Traveller Report, the performance marketing technology company looks at what it is about these services that digital travellers are drawn to, and why they’re chosen over travel agents.

The report also shows that travellers are increasingly searching for travel on their smartphones, with the report delving into the reasons why travellers are being pushed towards a digital world of travel.

Forty-two per cent of millennials turn to their smartphone to search for travel, while 61 per cent of respondents overall say this practice is more convenient as you can browse on the go.

In the report – which you can suss out here – the research shows 99 per cent of respondents used an online channel to search for travel, while 16 per cent used offline channels.

69 per cent of respondents say they use online price comparison sites like Skyscanner, while 51 per cent use OTAs to help search for travel products.

According to the report, the top five reasons Aussie travellers jump online to search for travel include:

criteo

With travellers placing so much emphasis on mobile and digital, where does this leave traditional travel agents?

Interestingly, 30 per cent of those surveyed clicked on targeted ads while they were browsing, and 69 per cent claim to have noticed ads specifically targeting them, making digital advertising a clever way for agencies to attract new clients.

In addition, mobile-friendly websites will ensure travellers in the ‘Search’ phase won’t get turned off travel agencies as a result of poor digital experiences.

To learn more about the travellers’ journey and grab your own free copy of Criteo’s report, click here.

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

    Latest comments

    1. So agents should sell stuff that’s not online. Evan airfares. Ever tried searching for an open jaw or double open jaw itinerary. Eg. Fly into lax out of sfo & clients can spend 4-7 days driving down highway 1

Criteo Discover Discovery

Latest News

  • Aviation

Auckland’s new airport terminal comes with all the modern gadgets

Auckland Airport has revealed a first detailed look at the planned interior for the city’s future new domestic jet terminal and what it will deliver for coming generations of passengers. Expected to open by 2030 the terminal takes design cues from the Manukau Harbour and surrounding landscape include a range of modern airport services.  “Easy […]

  • Aviation

Air New Zealand crew sign up for Sign Language Week

Air New Zealand cabin crew used sign language to communicate with passengers, including signing the inflight announcements and onboard service offerings, in a world-first to mark the beginning of New Zealand Sign Language Week, from 6-12 May. Customers on NZ421 from Auckland to Wellington were also encouraged to give New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) a […]

  • Cruise

Holland America Line’s giving one lucky winner the Ultimate Alaskan Cruise Experience

Holland America Line is offering a “Win The Ultimate Alaskan Cruise Experience” as its latest incentive to lure Aussie cruisers to the northern hemisphere hotspot. One lucky winner will embark on an unforgettable journey aboard the perfectly mid-sized Koningsdam, departing from Anchorage, Alaska on August 13, 2024, and arriving in Vancouver on August 24. The […]

  • Events

CATO commemorates 25 years with anniversary dinner

The Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) has announced its 25th Anniversary Dinner that will not only commemorate CATO’s historic milestones but will also provide an invaluable opportunity for members to network and reflect on numerous significant achievements. This prestigious event for members will be held at the Sydney Hilton Hotel on Thursday, 20 June, […]

  • Conferences

Fiji Tourism Exchange 2024 opens with a vibrant ceremony at Sofitel Fiji Resort, Denarau

The two-day Fiji Tourism Exchange 2024 opened with a vibrant ceremony at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Denarau. A pinnacle event in the South Pacific tourism calendar, the event brings together industry stakeholders from across the globe to delve into Fiji’s tourism offerings and cultivate long-lasting business relationships. Acting Prime Minister and Minister […]

  • Destinations

Raes on Wategos celebrates 30th birthday and guests get the presents

World famous luxury boutique hotel Raes on Wategos, in Byron Bay, has launched its 30th birthday celebrations with a Raes Indulgent Escape package. Available for all stays of two nights or more, from June to August, the curated package offers an invitation to indulge in a shared celebration of Raes 30th birthday, whilst revelling in […]

  • Cruise

Seabourn’s two new value-add offers for 2024-25

Luxe cruise line Seabourn is offering two value-added promotions featuring must-have fares and a generous shipboard credit for guests seeking to book their next voyage. The exclusive “A Sail to Remember” Event includes must-have fares on most Seabourn ultra-luxury ocean and expedition voyages in October 2024 and beyond. The “More Moments on Us” Event offers […]

  • Cruise

PONANT commercial team expands to meet growing demand in APAC 

Luxury exploration cruise line Ponant has announced significant updates to their Asia Pacific commercial team in response to accelerated growth across the region. “These structural enhancements signify Ponant’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our valued trade partners in the Asia Pacific region,” general manager sales & marketing, Asia Pacific, Deb Corbett said. “We […]