Deals, Fees and Kermit the Frog: Travel predictions for 2011

 By Meredith McKee, Senior Account Executive, Dallas

I like to think ahead when it comes to travel. In fact, I’ve already started planning a few trips for 2011. I’m heading to Los Angeles in March to see my sister and newborn nephew, Europe later in the spring and a few couch-surfing trips sprinkled throughout the year to visit friends who live around the country.

As someone who works with the travel industry every day and who loves to travel, I spend a lot of time keeping up to speed on the latest travel trends.

Here are a few things that are already on our radar at Edelman Southwest:

1. Private Sales, Hidden Discounts – As it has been the last couple of years, it’s still all about finding a deal when traveling. The trend known as opaque hotel pricing, which only allows the traveler to see the name of the hotel after they have purchased, is still available from various sites, including Top Secret Hotels from our client Travelocity. This type of pricing can offer savings up to 55 percent. Also, more sites such as Jetsetter and Rue La La are offering private sales with deals on hotels. These sites are invitation only so that only members can take exclusive advantage of the savings.

Expect to see more of these sites pop up in 2011, and more people taking advantage of them as the word spreads of their offerings. The trick is keeping track of all these sites and figuring out if you are getting a good deal or not. If you need some help, HotelChatter, a blog about all things hotels, does a great job of providing lots of info on different private sales and opaque offerings.

2. Social Media and Travel – Tweets. Check-ins. Status updates. We can’t travel anymore without virtually acknowledging it. The travel industry is getting in on the act by offering deals on Twitter, sending out updates and engaging with travelers. For example, our client, Texas Tourism (@TexasTourism), keeps travelers informed of happenings and promotions available across the state.

In addition, travelers will find more travel companies are offering their followers and fans exclusive deals available only through social media platforms. So there is value in becoming a fan of, following or “checking in” at your favorite airline, hotel or travel site.

3. Going Green – Kermit had it wrong – it’s easy to be green! At least it is when it comes to travel. Whether you want to purchase a carbon offset while flying Virgin America, book a green hotel in Vegas or volunteer on vacation, there really is a way for every traveler to give back.

4. Airline Fees – The Transportation Department recently announced that the U.S. carriers combined made $4.3 billion in fees for checked bags and changing tickets. While the fees may have annoyed customers, it’s a revenue generator and clearly not a deal-breaker for travelers as they continue to fly. Just be aware that baggage fees are here to stay, so pack accordingly to carry on or check your airline’s website for the latest on current fees and how to pay as some offer discounts for pre-paying online. Airfarewatchdog also provides an updated list for many airlines all in one place.

As we head into 2011, it will be interesting to see what’s next for the airlines and the travel industry overall and how travelers will react. Either way, you can’t keep me off a plane this year!