Focusing on Travel Gift Cards: A Rising Trend
Travel gift cards are becoming increasingly popular as a versatile gift option, allowing recipients to turn tokens into memorable travel experiences.
Focusing on Travel Gift Cards: A Rising Trend
An Overview of the Latest Insights on Travel Gift Cards
Feeling the urge to travel after winter? You’re not alone. Travel companies report that the first quarter of the year sees a spike in travel gift card redemptions as people start converting holiday presents into real trips. Why let a gift card remain inactive when it could finance a flight, hotel stay, or even a guided tour?
What’s Driving the Travel Gift Card Boom?
Market projections vary, but one thing is certain: travel gift cards are gaining traction. The overall gift card market is expected to grow over 15% annually, projected to top $1.5 trillion by 2025 and potentially exceed $4 trillion by 2032.
While traditional gifts still hold merit, travel gift cards present a unique alternative—practical and flexible methods for transforming a gift into an experience. Recent studies indicate they are not only becoming more common but are also being redeemed faster, particularly in the early months of the year.
“In the first quarter of this year, we’ve seen a notable rise in travel gift card usage,” says Magdalena Petrusic, Travel and Research Expert at Paris Tickets & Tours.
- The 55+ age group witnessed a 3% increase in travel gift card usage.
- Younger travelers (18-24) led the charge with a 15% surge in bookings for attractions and tours.
Petrusic believes this trend will continue: “The proportion of travel gift cards in gifting will keep growing, especially as experience-focused tours and activities take the spotlight.”
The Very Essence of Experience-Based Gifting
Recognizing this trend, Paris Tickets & Tours analyzed consumer behavior to pinpoint the most commonly utilized travel gift cards. Their research unveiled 14 of the popular options and an intriguing insight: one in ten travelers also turns to ride-sharing gift cards such as Uber or Lyft.
Conclusion: Delivering Value and Flexibility
The evidence suggests that travel gift cards do deliver. Whether for flights, hotels, attractions, or transportation, they offer a practical and adaptable option for both givers and recipients. While they may not completely replace traditional gifts, their burgeoning popularity signifies that more travelers are discovering their usefulness.
Frequently Used Travel Gift Cards (Q1 2025)
| Provider | Included | Design & Form | Expiration | Where to Buy | Coverage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbnb Gift Card | Accommodation & experiences (varies by region) | Customizable, digital & physical | No expiration date | Online (Airbnb site, Amazon) | Worldwide |
| Marriott Gift Card | Marriott hotels – stays, dining, spa, and select service | Customizable, digital & physical | No expiration date | Online (Marriott site, Amazon) | Worldwide |
| Delta Air Lines | Delta flight tickets | Customizable, digital & physical | No expiration date | Online USA, CA (Delta) | Worldwide, Delta marketed flight |
Source: Paris Tickets & Tours
