travel industry business ideas

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21 Tourism and Travel Business Ideas

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Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on July 21, 2022 Updated on May 3, 2024

The tourism industry is massive and diverse, offering many opportunities for sharp entrepreneurs. You could start a travel agency, a campground, a hotel, or a concierge service. Explore many more excellent tourism and travel related business ideas in our list below.

1. Travel Agency

If you love to travel and are always planning your next trip, starting a travel agency might be the perfect career choice. It’s a great way to share your love and knowledge of travel, and it can be very lucrative.

If you have the resources, starting a travel agency business can be a breeze. But first, you need to identify your target market. Will you focus on domestic or international travel? A lot of Americans go on short trips for vacation or business purposes, providing an opportunity for travel agencies to earn money. Once you find your niche and draw up a business plan, you should work on establishing your brand and promoting it to find clients.

2. Nightclub

Do you enjoy late nights on the town? If so, starting a club might be right up your alley. Before you open your club, it’s important to know that the industry is heavily regulated, especially when it comes to alcohol consumption. You’ll need to meet both state and local regulations and licensing requirements so it’s best to inquire about the details from your local authorities first.

Next, it’s a good idea to research the market and find out what other clubs in your area are offering. You’ll have to innovate and come up with a unique selling proposition and a creative marketing plan for your club to attract customers. With these in place, your club can be very profitable.

3. Travel Photography

Are you an amateur photographer who loves snapping great images? Photography in the US is an $11 billion industry expected to see steady growth in the coming years, so now would be a great time to stretch your entrepreneurial wings and give it a shot. You could focus on travel photography, if that’s your passion, and give the world beautiful photos while also seeing the world. You can capture landscapes, people, cultures, customs, and history.

Assuming you already have a professional-level camera, you’ll just need some great editing software and to build a website showing off your portfolio and listing your prices and services. Instagram and Pinterest are perfect social media networks for showing your travel photography.

If you’ve stayed in an Airbnb, you probably know how sweet it is to have a home away from home! This is why the homestay segment of the hotel and lodgings market has seen explosive growth in recent years, with Airbnb leading the way. Renting out your home as an Airbnb is an easy and flexible way to earn income, whether you’re looking for a little extra money or to build a serious business.

The first step is to make sure your home or apartment can be rented out for short-term stays. In many areas today, there are laws either banning Airbnb rentals or limiting them to a certain share of local units. If your home clears that hurdle and is in an area with some tourist appeal, you’re already halfway there. If your apartment fails to meet one of these requirements, you might want to look into purchasing a home or apartment in an appealing destination, which you could then develop into a successful Airbnb.

Whichever approach you choose, the most important step is delivering fantastic service to your guests. If you can achieve Superhost status, you’ll be well on your way to Airbnb success.

5. Translation Business

Demand for translation services is expected to grow as more companies seek to capture or increase their share of the global market. Translation businesses help translate documents, localize travel and city guide websites, and interpret speech, including sign language. If you’re thinking of starting a translation business, you’re not alone. But if you have the skills and the right talents and tools, you could edge out the competition.

In this internet age, finding translators who can work remotely across the globe has become easier. Promoting diversity among your staff could also be good for your business because you’ll be able to offer translation services for more languages. Do the paperwork to register your business, keep yourself updated with the latest technologies, promote your services, and you should be able to gain traction as soon as you start operating.

6. Bed and Breakfast

How to start a bed and breakfast business

Many Americans still prefer to stay in a traditional B&B for the unique hospitality, homemade food, and fascinating local insights. When starting a B&B, it’s important to be aware of the latest industry trends. For example, many guests prefer a facility that offers live entertainment or is located close to tourist attractions. It’s also to your advantage to research the market and see what features and services are being offered by the competition. Be innovative in coming up with ways to differentiate your business. Running a bed and breakfast is not easy, but it can be very rewarding if you play your cards right.

7. Glamping

A decade ago nobody had heard the word glamping, which is short for “glamorous camping”. Today it’s a nearly $3.1 billion global industry and among the fastest-growing segments of the travel and hospitality market, expected to more than double by 2030. If you have a bit of land in an appealing location, or have the funds to purchase such a plot, you could start your own glamping business and make a good living offering luxury experiences to discerning travelers.

There will be some serious work involved. In addition to acquiring the property, you’ll need to outfit it with all the bells and whistles — from tents and teepees to high-end beds, furniture, lighting and air-conditioning and heating units. If your location is on the water, you could boost your revenue by also offering sailboats, canoes, kayaks, and more. But before you get started, this is a new and fast-evolving industry, so it’s best to take the time to research the market and learn the latest trends before diving in.

8. Jet Ski Rental

Do you like having fun out on the water? Well, so does everybody else! That’s why starting a jet ski business is almost always a great idea. The global personal watercraft market is worth $1.6 trillion and expected to expand an impressive 50% by 2027. Right now is a great time to start a jet ski business, bring good times to your community and ride the market expansion to great success.

Getting there will require a significant investment. You’ll need to spend about $25,000 to get your first few jet skis, plus a rental facility on the water and permits and licensing fees. Of course, you’ll also need to live near an appealing body of water, preferably one that’s enjoyable for more than a few months of the year. Finally, you will want to get good insurance, because jet skis are as dangerous as they are fun.

Once that’s all settled, just start advertising on local outlets and events, posting on relevant social media groups and online vacation platforms. You’ll have your first few customers in no time, and soon be cruising toward success.

9. Campground

Do you love the outdoors? If so, setting up a campground could be the perfect way to start your entrepreneurial journey. The recent study found that an estimated 84.8 million Americans went camping in 2023, and 5.5 million of those were first-time campers.

Your biggest challenge in starting a campground is likely to be finding a suitable location. The most visited campgrounds in the US are in state parks, near bodies of water, surrounded by wilderness, or in the mountains. Once you find an ideal campsite, you’ll need to comply with licensing, zoning, and other legal requirements. Before you launch your business, it’s wise to research the market and find out what other campgrounds are offering. With careful planning and a creative marketing strategy, your campground can give competing sites a run for their money.

10. Pet Sitting

You’d probably never guess that pet sitting is a $2.4 billion industry , but it is indeed. People love their pets, and will spend whatever it takes to ensure they’re taken care of when they are away. The pet sitting market is projected to see impressive growth through 2030, so if you’re an animal lover, now is the perfect time to start your own pet sitting business and ride that wave to serious profits.

The first step is to decide which type of pets you’ll care for. Do you have more experience with dogs or cats? Are you OK with snakes? Pigs? Once you’ve got that nailed down, you’ll just need to buy some pet toys and supplies and offer your services on a gigs site like TaskRabbit. It’s a good idea to reach out to friends, family and work-related contacts and acquaintances. If you’re able to generate an initial client or two from your own personal network, and provide them with great service, you’ll have a strong reference to promote your services and start building a successful business.

11. Spa Salon

If you’re a massage therapist or esthetician, you could open a beauty salon, nail spa, luxury spa, massage studio, or even a mobile spa, and make people feel better while making a good living.

You will likely need to get licensed, which can take some doing, and deliver excellent services to compete in an increasingly competitive and saturated market. Another crucial aspect will be location — your spa should be somewhere with steady traffic. Or you could go the mobile spa route and make house calls, bringing your massage and therapeutic services to your clients. This is more convenient for them, which means you can charge a higher rate, despite having lower overhead.

There are many elements to consider for your spa business, but what is not in doubt are your chances of success if you’re determined and can deliver healing services.

12. Scooter Rental

With gas prices going up, more and more Americans are turning to cheaper, more eco-friendly options for their commute and for seeing the city. Scooters cost less than cars and run on electricity. Over the past decade, Americans took a third of a billion trips on shared bikes and scooters. That’s a huge number, and it’s expected to increase sharply in the next few years. Considering this, a scooter rental business is a smart choice.

But first, it’s important to understand that scooters are used primarily as a transport option for short distances. Setting up this kind of business requires a huge upfront investment because you might have to purchase some scooters, unless you can lease them. You’ve need to make sure you have all the necessary permits and insurance in place before opening.

Once you have everything you need, it’s a good idea to work on a marketing plan. You can use social media, print ads, and word-of-mouth to get the word out about your new venture.

13. Party Bus

Ready to party? As the pandemic recedes, everybody’s getting back out there to have a good time. For a lot of people that means renting out a party bus and dancing and drinking the night away while cruising down the streets.

Starting your own party bus business will require considerable investment. The major cost will be, of course, the bus itself. Hopefully you’ll be able to find a reliable one at a reasonable price and then deck it out with all the trimmings, from a bar and disco ball to a DJ booth and more. Once you’ve done some marketing and gotten the word out you’ll be able to charge as much as $700 per night, so it shouldn’t take too long before you see a major return on your investment.

Just be sure to get all your licenses, permits and insurance — the last thing you want is for the party to get parked on the curb.

14. Car Rental

With some hard work and determination, you could start your own car rental business and provide travelers the transport they need while grabbing your share of a growing $30 billion US market .

Keep in mind that this is a competitive industry, which means you’ll need to find ways to stand out, such as with deep discounts or a unique selection of cars. Speaking of which, you’ll also need to lay out a sizable investment to get your initial fleet of four to five cars. Finally, it’s crucial that you meet all the licensing and insurance requirements or your business could face severe fines, or worse.

But if you’re able to clear these hurdles, there’s a good chance your car rental business will soon be cruising down easy street.

15. Boat Rental

Who doesn’t love a day out on the water? There are so many things to do. from skiing and tubing to cruising, socializing, swimming and just taking in the sun. That’s why boat rentals are a $5.3 billion US industry expected to see smooth sailing and steady growth in the years ahead. If you like spending time outdoors, you could start your own boat rental business and help people enjoy their time off while making a good living.

There are several possible constraints. For one, you should live near a sizable body of water, and find an available access point or marina to base your operations. Second, you’ll likely need to accept the seasonal nature of this line of work, which in most areas of the US will only bring in revenue for 6-7 months of the year. Finally, getting started will require a significant investment, as appealing, rentable boats do not come cheap.

But if you’re OK with all this, and able to acquire the necessary permits and insurance, once you start putting boaters on the water you’ll be cruising straight toward success.

16. Bike Rental

As travel regains steam and more workers return to the office, demand for bike rental for last-mile connections is sure to increase. If you’re thinking of starting your own business, a bike-share outfit or bike rental shop could be a great option. The US bike rental industry is projected to grow in the next five years amid a bike-share boom, driven in part by environmental concerns.

There are a few things you need to consider before starting a bike rental business. Is there a market for bike rental in your area? What kind of bikes should you offer? How many bikes should you start with? You will find the answers to these questions as you research the market. It is also important to comply with all the legal and regulatory requirements and to come up with a good marketing plan. One option is to place bike docks near subway stations and major bus stops.

17. RV Rental

RVing , or traveling in a recreational vehicle, is a popular way of exploring the US with family and friends. It’s showing no signs of slowing as more than 70 million Americans are expected to go on road trips in an RV they rent, own, or borrow, according to the RV Industry Association. You could start an RV rental business and tap into this exciting travel market.

You can either invest in a fleet of RVs, which would require a hefty investment, or you can just list your RV on an online marketplace like Outdoorsy. Before setting your rates, it’s a good idea to scope out the market and find out what your competitors are charging. You’ll have to factor in insurance and other costs in order to make a profit.

Finally, it’s important to keep your RVs well-maintained to attract customers, most of whom prefer to rent out new units. With all this in place, your RV rental business will making good money in no time.

18. Kayak Rental

How to start a canoe and kayak rental business

As more people explore the outdoors in a post-pandemic world, a kayak business makes sense. It’s an eco-friendly way to help travelers enjoy their time off while getting some exercise and enjoying the great outdoors. The global kayak accessories market size was $164.2 million in 2020 and will touch $214 million by 2027. So, why not start a kayak rental business now?

Aside from offering kayaks for rent, you could also also offer apparel and helmets, storage bags, seats, life jackets, and safety gear. Selecting the location of your shop is important. It will have to be near the coast, a river or a lake, and with steady foot traffic. You’ll need a substantial investment to set up your shop. Finally, it’s a good idea to promote your business and let people know about your offerings.

Considering all the ride-sharing apps out there, you might be surprised to learn that old-school taxis are not only surviving, but doing quite well. The US taxi and limo market is worth more than $41.7 billion and expected to see steady growth in the coming years. If you enjoy driving and meeting new people, starting a taxi business might be the right move for you.

Getting started will require some real effort and investment. You’ll need to buy a reliable car, if you don’t already have one, plus reliable insurance and all the necessary permits. In some cities the car hire license can be a major expense, for instance a New York City taxi medallion costs $80,000. In other places, like $300 in Cleveland, not so much. Once you’ve all set up, it’s a good idea to build a website so people can find you, and you might want to offer an app as well, as most car services nowadays offer on-demand ordering.

Finally, get creative with your marketing to stand out in a competitive market, provide excellent service and steady driving to your first few clients, and the good reviews and revenues should start pouring in.

20. RV Park

The wanderlust spirit and a rise in road-tripping have amplified the allure of RV travel. Capitalizing on this trend, starting an RV park presents a golden opportunity in the travel business sector. Such parks cater to a growing demographic of explorers seeking the comfort of their RVs while embracing the freedom of the open road. With the right amenities and a strategic location, an RV park can be a haven for both short-term travelers and long-term nomads.

Location is paramount, ideally near popular tourist spots or natural attractions. Additionally, ensuring modern facilities, security, and possibly offering unique experiences or events can differentiate your park from competitors. As travel patterns evolve, an RV park can offer travelers a blend of adventure and convenience, making it a profitable and sustainable business venture.

21. Tour Operator

Tour operator business thrives on curating unique experiences, offering tailored packages, and ensuring travelers get the best out of their journeys. Unlike general travel agencies, tour operators control and manage the specifics of the trip, right from itinerary planning to the on-ground execution. This means creating partnerships with local businesses, ensuring safety standards, and offering a seamless travel experience to clients.

In today’s digital age, a tour operator’s success doesn’t just hinge on local networking, but also on a strong online presence. Reviews, testimonials, and digital marketing strategies play a pivotal role in attracting potential customers. Whether one chooses to cater to adventure seekers, history enthusiasts, or luxury travelers, the key is to differentiate, maintain high service standards, and keep evolving with the dynamic travel industry.

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Small Business Trends

15 innovative travel business ideas for aspiring entrepreneurs.

As the world finally opens up for business, the beleaguered travel industry is getting its groove back. Not surprisingly, this is attracting a number of small business owners to explore travel business ideas.

What Are Travel Businesses?

Travel businesses primarily revolve around providing diverse services that facilitate and enhance the experience of traveling.

These services can range from arranging lodging accommodations, vehicle rentals for transportation, curated excursions, and immersive activities that allow travelers to deeply engage with the local culture.

While the travel sector primarily focuses on the logistics of transportation and lodging, it deeply intertwines with the broader tourism industry.

Together, they aim to create memorable experiences for tourists, catering to their varied preferences and ensuring a smooth journey from start to finish.

READ MORE: Build A Travel Business You Can Sell With These 5 Tips

Be sure to check out Income Hub’s article, “7 Travel Business Ideas Trending With Low Startup Costs,” after you’re done reading:

The Travel and Hospitality Industry

The unanticipated global pandemic wreaked havoc on the travel and tourism sector. Consequently, and for a prolonged two-year period, businesses worldwide faced unprecedented challenges as international and domestic movements came to an almost complete standstill.

However, there’s renewed optimism that this is the year the industry will make a triumphant comeback. The continued prevalence of flexible working arrangements has given birth to a new category of travelers – those combining work with leisure.

Responding to this change, the travel industry is innovating to integrate work-friendly environments, such as co-working spaces within hotels or resorts.

Furthermore, a significant shift towards sustainable travel is becoming increasingly evident. Today’s travelers are not just satisfied with basic eco-friendly initiatives. They are actively seeking out holistic, sustainable travel experiences.

This encompasses everything from choosing accommodations that practice waste reduction, opting for transportation methods with a smaller carbon footprint, to prioritizing dining options that serve vegan dishes and use locally-sourced ingredients.

Why You Should Consider Starting Your Own Business In Travel

travel business ideas - woman using her laptop to work in the travel industry in her home office

From a commercial standpoint, this is perhaps the best time to start your own business in travel.

Let’s take a look at the factors that make this a lucrative business opportunity.

Potential to earn more: As traveling regains popularity, there are abundant opportunities to increase your income.
Choose your domain: Another great thing about starting a travel-related business is you have plenty of options to explore. For example, you may choose to specialize in a domain such as travel photography or travel consulting based on your interest.
Do without an office: Thanks to digitalization, a number of small travel businesses have gone completely online. This saves these online business owners both time and money.
Partner with other service providers: As a business owner in this sector, you don’t have to venture out alone. You can easily tie up with other service providers and offer a better deal to your customers.
Low startup cost: Many small businesses prefer the travel industry because of the low startup cost. Depending on the scale you have in mind, you can keep your business profitable.

READ MORE: Small Business Ideas for Beginners

Our Methodology to Choose the Best Travel Business Ideas

When exploring travel business ideas, it’s crucial to choose concepts that are not only viable in the current travel market but also resonate with the entrepreneur’s interests and capabilities. Here’s the methodology we used to evaluate potential travel business opportunities:

Market Demand and Travel Trends (Rating: 9/10)

Assessing the current and emerging trends in the travel industry was our starting point. We focused on business ideas that cater to popular travel trends, such as eco-tourism, adventure travel, or luxury experiences.

Niche Market Opportunities (Rating: 8/10)

We looked for niches within the travel sector that offer unique opportunities. This includes specialized tour services, niche accommodation options, or catering to specific traveler demographics.

Low Initial Investment and Overhead (Rating: 7/10)

Considering the startup costs and ongoing operational expenses was crucial. We prioritized travel business ideas that require minimal initial investment and have manageable overhead costs.

Flexibility and Lifestyle Fit (Rating: 8/10)

The travel industry often allows for flexibility in terms of operation. We selected ideas that can adapt to the entrepreneur’s lifestyle, whether they seek full-time engagement or part-time involvement.

Profitability and Revenue Streams (Rating: 8/10)

Evaluating the potential for profit and diverse revenue streams was key. We looked for travel business ideas with a clear path to profitability, including opportunities for ancillary services and upselling.

Scalability and Expansion Potential (Rating: 7/10)

The potential for scaling and expanding the business was another important factor. We considered travel business ideas that can grow over time, either through geographical expansion, franchising, or diversifying services.

Personal Passion and Expertise (Rating: 8/10)

Finally, aligning the business with personal interests and expertise in travel is vital. We focused on ideas that match the entrepreneur’s passion for travel, enhancing their dedication and satisfaction.

By applying these criteria, we aimed to identify travel business ideas that not only promise profitability and market relevance but also align with the entrepreneur’s passion for travel and lifestyle preferences.

Popular Travel Business Ideas

Today, the travel business goes beyond setting up an agency. Thanks to customers who continue to look for better options, there are a number of profitable travel business ideas. Let’s explore some of these in detail.

1. Tour Guide Business

travel business ideas - tour guide showing customers the sights

This is the ideal business idea if you don’t have the capital to invest in your business – at least not in the initial phase. To succeed, you should have knowledge about the location where you operate. You should also be based in a place that draws enough travelers.

2. Bed and Breakfast Business

If you want to turn your home into a business location, a bed and breakfast is the right option for you. To make it popular with many travelers, you need to offer a truly great experience. This includes having a real passion for hosting different people and making them feel comfortable during their stay.

3. Car Rental Business

Many travelers rely on cars to move around when they travel. For this reason, a car rental is the most obvious choice for many of these travelers. If you have experience with automobiles and their maintenance, this business can work for you.

4. Scooter Rental Business

Many leisure travelers prefer using scooters, especially when the weather is great outdoors. To be able to start this business, you should have at least 3-4 scooters. You should also have in-depth knowledge about scooters.

5. Travel Photography Business

If solopreneurship is your calling, starting a travel photography company is one of the obvious choices. As a travel photographer, you have the flexibility and freedom to travel, take pictures and make money. Moreover, if you’re truly talented, you can make a lot of money through the various stock photography websites.

6. Translation services

Another popular option for those who want to run their business independently is translation services. And this skill will come in handy when you are contending with customers coming from the outside. As such, your ability to converse fluently in more than one language is especially useful when you are in a busy town that sees a lot of travelers.

7. Medical Tourism

In recent years, medical tourism has become widely popular in various parts of the world. In addition to the modern medical sciences, many people are interested in holistic, traditional treatment options. It goes without saying you need to have the right credentials to be able to start this lucrative business.

8. Adventure Trips

Adventure tourism is a niche within the travel industry. Extremely popular with young people, it is a great service-based business. Generally, you will have to gain experience and credentials to start this type of business.

9. Event Planning

Another business model that pays pretty well is corporate event planning. As an event planner, you will be responsible for designing unique corporate events. Be that as it may, this is not a one-person business. You will need a personal assistant and some extra manpower to succeed.

10. Travel Blogging

Making money through their travel blog is a full-time job for a number of travelers. Therefore, if you have the passion to write and document your adventures, you can turn yourself into a social media influencer. Of course, competition on social media platforms is quite fierce, but with good content, you can easily stand out.

More Great Ideas for Traveling Businesses

With several options to choose from, zeroing in on the best travel business idea may seem challenging. The trick is to focus on where your passion truly lies. Let’s explore some more ideas for your business.

11. Coffee Shop

Travelers all over the world need coffee to keep themselves energized. A coffee shop, therefore, is a great idea to attract a client base. Your choice of location will matter greatly when you set up your shop.

12. Glamping Business

travel business ideas - lit up glamping tents at campsite

Glamping brings glamor to the fun outdoor activity of camping. The idea is to create a sophisticated ambiance for campers. Of course, you need a great location and the right services in place to succeed with this.

13. Kayak Tours

Many adventurous travelers enjoy kayaking. But since bringing a kayak is often not an option for them, they have to rely on local businesses. Fortunately, this is where you can make a difference and make money through adventure sports.

14. Water Taxi Service

Depending on the location, you can offer water taxi services to your customers. This business requires you to make a small capital investment.

15. Travel Agency

Setting up an agency is a great idea if you have the adequate knowledge and manpower to cater to your customer demands. Meanwhile, if you lack the manpower, you can work as an independent operator or partner with a major travel company.

Comparison of Popular Travel Business Ideas

To better assist aspiring entrepreneurs in selecting a suitable travel business venture, we’ve compiled a table that compares various business ideas based on their startup capital requirement and potential profitability:

Technological Adaptations in the Travel Business Landscape

As the travel industry continues to evolve, it is undeniable that technology-driven innovations are at the forefront of this transformation. From the emergence of smart hotels and immersive AR/VR experiences to the convenience of contactless solutions and the precision of AI-powered personalization, travelers are witnessing a revolution that promises a more seamless and efficient journey.

Here’s a closer look at some of these cutting-edge advancements :

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality Tours: While VR provides an immersive experience where users feel like they are in a different location, AR enhances real-world views by overlaying them with digital elements, such as historical information or interactive exhibits. Both these tools allow potential travelers to explore and interact with a location or accommodation before making a booking, offering an enriched pre-travel experience.
Contactless Technology : Given the hygiene concerns post-pandemic, the adoption of contactless payments, check-ins, and digital room keys has increased, ensuring safety and convenience for travelers.
AI-Powered Personalization : To enhance customer experience, businesses are increasingly leveraging Artificial Intelligence. AI tools analyze past travel behaviors to recommend tailor-made travel packages, ensuring a more personalized journey for each traveler.
Environmental Monitoring Tools : With the rising emphasis on sustainable travel, some innovative platforms now offer real-time data on the environmental impact of travel choices. This can cover carbon footprints, energy consumption, and waste production, allowing travelers to make more informed, eco-friendly decisions.
Mental Well-being Focus : Recognizing the pandemic’s toll on mental health, travel packages often include mindfulness and wellness components. Retreats, yoga sessions, and mental well-being workshops are becoming popular inclusions in travel itineraries.
Smart Hotels: The concept of “Smart Hotels” encompasses automated room settings, robot-assisted services, integrated mobile apps, energy efficiency systems, and personalized guest experiences, revolutionizing the stay experience for travelers.

How Do You Start Your Own Travel Business?

Launching a travel business begins with a concrete vision and a meticulously detailed business plan. It’s pivotal to understand that while some niches in the travel segment might be lucrative, they may also demand a considerable initial financial outlay.

Thus, potential entrepreneurs should thoroughly evaluate their financial standing and possibly gravitate towards business models that are more budget-friendly, especially if initial capital is a concern.

Beyond finances, it’s crucial to introspect and understand the intrinsic motivations pushing one towards this industry.

Is it a passion for travel, an interest in other cultures, or the thrill of entrepreneurship? Recognizing this driving force can guide the business’s direction and ethos.

Image: Envato Elements

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Business Insights

16 adventurous travel business ideas (2024), march 11, 2024.

Adventurous travel business ideas perfect for globetrotters

The travel industry is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, reaching over $1.6 trillion by 2028 . As more people prioritize experiences over material possessions this presents a major opportunity if you have been thinking about starting a travel business. Whether you want to start a boutique travel agency focusing on specific clientele or launch an adventurous excursion company, possibilities in the travel sector are endless.

If you still cannot figure out where to start, we got you covered with some of the most inspirational and profitable travel business ideas among globetrotters.

Best 16 travel business ideas

Here are some creative and profitable travel business ideas that you can start right away:

Local experience tours

Local experience tours offer immersive local experiences to tourists and travelers. This can be a good business idea because it allows visitors to deeply engage with local cultures, foods, activities, and people. Rather than just sightseeing, guests get to participate in unique adventures and make meaningful connections. For example, they may learn traditional cooking techniques from local chefs or join neighborhood walking tours led by long-time residents. This helps travelers create memories that a standard bus tour cannot provide. Meanwhile, it funnels tourist dollars into local communities and connects residents with appreciative guests.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Eco-friendly travel planning

Eco-friendly travel planning specializes in planning vacations focused on sustainability. This business would consult with travelers to suggest eco-friendly transportation, lodging, tours, and activities at each destination. Promoting green travel helps the environment by reducing carbon emissions. It also allows tourists to reduce their environmental impact through mindful choices. As more people seek eco-trips, a travel agency well-versed in this niche can match values-driven clients to the right locations and vendors. The differentiator is expertise in vetting and curating the most planet-friendly getaways.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Digital nomad services

It is a business that provides services to digital nomads. The business would help digital nomads be productive and enjoy their nomadic lifestyle. It could offer services like a membership program to access vetted wifi hotspots, discounts at co-working spaces, a network of trusted housesitters and property rentals, social meetups and events, job boards, and more. The goal would be to simplify logistics and create a community for remote workers on the go.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $1,000-$3,000 How long does it take to build: 1-3 months

Travel blogging and vlogging

Travel blogging and vlogging refer to creating a blog and video blog to document travels. It involves creating written and visual content based on experiences visiting new destinations and sharing reviews about things like hotels, restaurants, attractions, and tours. There is a large audience of people who enjoy following along on others’ trips for inspiration on where to go as well as trustworthy recommendations. The blog and social media posts have the potential to generate clicks and shares as readers find the first-hand information helpful. All the content created while traveling opens up diverse moneymaking avenues. For instance, ads and affiliate marketing related to hospitality and tourism with commissions on reservations made.

How much you can make: $30,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $1,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Local guide services

By providing local knowledge, insider tips, and unique perspectives, a local guide service can help travelers discover hidden gems, understand the culture and history of a place, and create unforgettable memories. Moreover, this business model has low startup costs and can be easily scaled based on demand. It also supports the local economy by promoting small businesses and cultural attractions. With the rise of online platforms and social media, it has become easier than ever to market and book local guide services, making it a viable business opportunity for entrepreneurs passionate about their communities and eager to share their expertise with others.

How much you can make: $30,000-$60,000 How much does it cost to start: 1,000-$3,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Vacation rental management

It is a business that helps homeowners rent out their vacation properties. Owners hire this service to advertise listings, screen guests, manage bookings and payments, coordinate check-ins/outs, handle maintenance issues, and overall take care of all aspects of making the property available as a successful rental. The service benefits owners by maximizing occupancy and rental rates and it also benefits guests by providing professional management and good experiences. Overall it connects homeowners and travelers in a mutually beneficial way through convenient, managed vacation rentals.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Custom travel accessories

Custom travel accessories allow customers to personalize and customize their travel accessories. This business would offer products like luggage tags, passport holders, travel pillows, blankets, and more that could all be customized with the customer’s name, initials, favorite colors, and patterns. Customers appreciate custom accessories that feel made just for them. The business would cater to this demand by providing quality customizable products and a seamless online ordering experience. This allows customers to get the travel gear delivered right to their door.

How much you can make: $30,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Budget-friendly travel

Budget-friendly travel would help budget travelers by curating affordable travel packages, hotels, activities, and transportation options. For example, packages could bundle reduced-rate rooms with discounted local attractions, meals, and airport transfers to provide an entire trip for a reasonable price. Customers would simply choose their destination and desired budget, and receive an all-inclusive, cheap but high-quality travel experience. By hunting for travel deals, pre-arranging discounted group rates, and negotiating prices for budget bundles, the business does the hard work for the customer.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive

Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive is a worthwhile business idea to consider because many high-income people desire lavish getaways with top-tier amenities and easy convenience. The business would arrange deluxe experiences including six-star cruises with private balconies, butler service, and gourmet dining or five-star beach resorts offering elite spas, golf, and personalized adventure excursions. It solves the hassle of intricate travel planning for demanding luxury guests. By leveraging partnerships and global connections, the business can facilitate access to hard-to-book suites, dream locales, and elite recreations for well-to-do travelers seeking the ultimate, no-compromises holidays tailored specifically to their desires.

How much you can make: $100,000-$250,000 How much does it cost to start: $50,000-$100,000 How long does it take to build: 12-18 months

Glamping offers the experience of camping outdoors combined with more comfortable, outfitted tents, beds, furniture, bathrooms, and other amenities more commonly found in hotels. This can appeal to those who enjoy nature and the outdoors but don’t necessarily want to rough it in a traditional tent fully. There is demand for off-the-grid vacations and glamping caters well to this market. The start-up costs may be higher than traditional campgrounds to furnish the upscale tents and build suitable restrooms/showers. However, the nightly rates charged to guests offset this over time. It allows for seasonal hospitality without large permanent real estate. The modular and transportable nature also provides flexibility if relocating the glamping resort is necessary.

How much you can make: $50,000-$150,000 How much does it cost to start: $20,000-$50,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Go solo or go social

Go solo or go social provides a platform for people to access services, either individually or in a social setting. The premise is that some services are best-enjoyed solo while others are more fun with company. For example, a massage may be preferred alone while going to a dance class could be more enjoyable with friends. The business would allow users to search for and book various services, selecting if they want to partake solo or if they want to facilitate a group social experience around the service. This can help service providers reach more customers, especially younger demographics interested in social experiences. It also caters to solo customers unable or unwilling to coordinate groups. Allowing both individual and shared services widens the target market.

How much you can make: $30,000-$60,000 How much does it cost to start: $2,000-$5,000 How long does it take to build: 2-4 months

Crypto trips

Crypto Trips accepts payment in cryptocurrencies and rewards customers with crypto tokens or NFTs. This allows crypto enthusiasts to spend their assets on memorable life experiences while earning exclusive rewards. It makes cryptocurrency more usable in daily life. The agency would partner with hospitality vendors to build travel packages that crypto holders could purchase with their preferred coin. Along with the trips, customers would gain access to unique digital collectibles from that destination. As cryptocurrencies gain mainstream traction, a crypto-based travel agency creates a practical use case while catering to a tech-savvy audience.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Sleep tourism

Sleep tourism is an idea where people travel specifically to get high-quality sleep. It would involve setting up accommodations designed specifically for optimal sleep health. This could be attractive for those who struggle with poor sleep at home due to noise, light, uncomfortable beds, etc. Quality sleep is increasingly seen as vital for physical and mental health, yet many do not prioritize it. This business would cater to that need, becoming a sleep-focused travel destination. Visitors could enjoy comfortable beds and bedrooms, carefully regulated temperatures and lighting suited for sleep, soundproofing, and possibly amenities like soothing music or scents. The sleep tourism business would be founded on the understanding that quality sleep underpins health, performance, and well-being. Providing an environment optimized solely for excellent slumber, it allows travelers to experience the proven benefits of great sleep.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Adventure travel guide service

Adventure travel guide service connects adventure travelers with experienced, local guides at their destination. Many people want more immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences when they travel. However, finding trustworthy, knowledgeable guides can be challenging, especially in developing countries. This service would vet potential guides, connect them with clients based on adventure activity interests and trip details, and take a percentage from the guide fees. It would make adventure travel easier to plan and provide income to local guides.

How much you can make: $40,000-$80,000 How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 3-6 months

Corporate travel management

Corporate travel management specializes in booking and managing business travel for companies. Many large companies spend a significant amount on employee travel but find coordinating all the flights, hotels, transportation, and other details very time-consuming which makes it a profitable business idea. A corporate travel management company simplifies the process by customizing travel booking platforms, negotiating discounts with travel vendors, providing a dedicated account manager, organizing group travel, and streamlining expense reporting.

How much you can make: $75,000-$150,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $10,000-$20,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Destination wedding planner

A destination wedding planner business helps engaged couples plan and execute their dream wedding in a romantic, exotic destination away from home. A destination wedding planner also often costs less than a traditional domestic wedding. A planner could provide end-to-end planning services to make travel arrangements, book venues, and vendors, manage legal paperwork, suggest ideas to personalize details and coordinate the event. They simplify the process for the couple while also getting a commission from referring vendors.

How much you can make: $50,000-$100,000 annually How much does it cost to start: $5,000-$10,000 How long does it take to build: 6-12 months

Success in this vibrant industry demands blending creativity, adaptability, and comprehending your audience. Yes, we know that the road ahead may be paved with challenges, but the rewards of building a successful travel business are well worth the trek. From the personal fulfillment of turning your passion into a profession to the financial freedom of a flourishing enterprise, the potential payoffs are immense.

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Set-jetting, Forest Bathing, and Hush Trips: 20 Innovative Tourism Business Ideas and Trends for 2023

In This Article: Trends to Inspire Your Tours and Activities

Top tourism trends of 2023.

It’s that time of year again to ask ourselves, “What’s new, cool, and innovative in tourism?”. We’ve compiled a list of new, innovative tourism business ideas for 2023 so you can find your niche.

The travel and tourism industry is in a state of constant flux, never more so than in the last few years. Every change and new trend brings with it an opportunity for tour operators to deliver what their customers old and new want—as well as add new tours and experiences they don’t yet even know they want.

As countries began to ease restrictions, 2022 saw the travel industry rebound from 2021 and 2020. Despite new global challenges appearing during 2022 and continuing into 2023, including the Russian-Ukraine war and the global economic fallout, the most important trend of all is that people still want to travel and are even budgeting for more travel.

As one travel professional interviewed for TravelAge West ’s article on travel trends put it: “It’s almost like travel went from a discretionary spend to an essential spend for a lot of people.”

Despite all that is still happening in the world, around the industry there is a continued air of optimism in 2023. Travel Pulse noted that “ while 2022 was the year of recovery [recovered almost 60 percent of its pre-pandemic levels], 2023 is poised to be the year of reinvention.” Booking.com research prompted them to label 2023 as a year of “creative imagination of travel.” Skyscanner’s Travel Trends report concluded that “Post-COVID restrictions, travellers continue to prioritize adventures abroad and embrace travel freedoms with relish.”

Here are some of the latest major trends and innovative tourism business ideas to keep an eye on and potentially incorporate into the tours and travel experiences you offer. We’ll also highlight a few of the more unusual and niche trends that could take off during 2023 or in the longer term, or just inspire some “out of the box” thinking when looking at your own products and services.

1. Transformational trips

Group of people on a lake practicing yoga during sunset

A buzz phrase you’ll hear a lot in 2023 is “transformational retreat.” This refers to travel experiences that cater to people who want to undergo a significant personal or spiritual transformation. Retreats and activities include meditation, yoga, therapy, workshops, and other experiential practices. Most promote self-awareness, personal growth, and positive change, typically taking place in a secluded and peaceful setting and led by experienced facilitators or coaches.

Booking.com’s Travel Predictions 2023 report called these trips “peace and pleasure pilgrimages.” The report found that 42 percent of travelers want to focus on their mental and physical health, including retreats to smooth the processes of pregnancy and menopause.” A large proportion of travelers are interested in meditation or mindfulness retreats. Some retreats even take the word “trip” literally, catering to people interested in the potential therapeutic benefits of the controlled and supervised use of “magic mushrooms” and other psychedelics.

Innovative tourism business ideas:

Beckley Retreats : Science-backed psychedelic retreats
Explorer X : A tour operator dedicated to transformational trips
Organic Tuscany : Organic cooking retreats in Tuscany.

2. Forest bathing and digital detoxing

Not everyone is looking for a transformational outcome from their vacation; many simply want to unwind and enjoy some quality “me time.” Wellness vacations have been a growing tourism business trend for some time, with demand accelerated by the pandemic. Tours that offer people the chance to pamper themselves and generally recalibrate are likely to be extremely popular for the foreseeable future.

Two specific innovative tourism business ideas that look likely to be especially popular in 2023 are “forest bathing” and “digital detoxing.”

Forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku , originated in Japan. It involves becoming immersed in nature to enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It can be as simple as going for a long walk through a forest, or sitting by a lake and taking in the sights, sounds, and smells of the natural surroundings. Research has shown that forest bathing can reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and even boost the immune system and reduce blood pressure and heart rate. After the last few years we’ve all been through, it’s no wonder it’s proving popular with travelers.

In a similar vein, many people want to unplug and undertake a “digital detox” where you never need to ask for the Wi-Fi password because there is no Wi-Fi. They could be seeking respite from “doom scrolling” through social media and news feeds on their digital devices, or they just want a break from the glowing screens so prevalent in their day-to-day. Trips that encourage travelers to leave their devices at home will be popular, whether to wellness retreats that ban or discourage digital devices or an out-of-the-way destination that makes electronic communication extremely difficult.

Gaia Wellness Retreat : Digital detox packages in a forest setting
Sheldon Chalet : A luxury chalet in Alaska
Talaysay Tours : A corporate tour to “connect to the forest with all your senses”

3. Off-grid and “survival” travel

One way to both commune with nature and unplug from your digital life is to go where no signal can reach you. Booking.com’s report found that 55 percent of travelers want to spend their vacations off-grid, resulting in an increase in tour operators offering trips to places where you can’t easily be reached. This could be a lodge in a remote part of a country or backcountry camping.

A related trend is the opposite of “glamping.” A growing number of travelers want to challenge themselves to survive in inhospitable conditions (you know… just in case), while learning new skills at the same time. In Booking.com’s report, 58 percent of travelers want to learn survival skills on holiday—everything from fire lighting and food foraging to the more full-on prepping for societal breakdown. Zombie survival camp anyone?

Off Grid Travel : Company offering a variety of off grid accommodation around Europe
Docastaway : Offers a desert island castaway experience
Black Tomato : Offers a “Get Lost service” for people who want to challenge themselves

4. Hush trips, workcations, and micro-cations

Shhh, don’t tell anyone (especially your co-workers and definitely not your boss), but “hush trips” are on the rise. A hush trip is a secret trip taken by an employee without their employer’s knowledge. It’s all linked to the huge rise in remote working. People who work in a different city and country from their employer can theoretically do their work from anywhere. However, a hush trip can be slightly different from a “workcation,” another popular trend in the age of remote working, when an employer’s permission is often sought. On a hush trip, no actual work might be done; the employee wants a real holiday to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and recharge, but they may not use their vacation days to take it. They complete their work and take a day or two off without anyone knowing (they hope,) perhaps logging in now and then for appearances’ sake. Or, they may travel somewhere and continue to work, while enjoying their downtime in a new place, again without telling anyone.

Many hush trips are “micro-cations,” short trips often taken close to home, often at the last minute. The micro-cation trend has continued to grow for the last few years, as people look for quick, convenient, and often budget-friendly getaways that don’t require a lot of planning.

When you combine the acceptance of remote working among many more employers with a large number of people who left the office behind and didn’t miss it for a second, you have an opportunity to create workcation and hush trip experiences for digital nomads and remote workers.

Selina : Opportunities for people to stay, travel, and work in interesting places around the world
Ethos Remote Habitat : Remote working retreats
Work from Hyatt : Packages for people who want to work from a Hyatt hotel

5. Traveling for “bleisure”

The travel industry does love a good old word mash-up to describe the latest trend. Hot on the heels of workcations, we have the related trend of “bleisure”—a name coined to describe the trend of business travelers tacking on some leisure time to the end of business trips. Where a workcation is often a longer trip designed around work, the growth of bleisure trips reflects the fact that as business travel bounces back, people still want as much vacation time as they can get.

Although the economy could affect business travel in 2023 as companies cut costs, it’s worth keeping an eye on the business and conference market to target business travelers who want to carve out some vacation time to explore a destination on their own time.

6. Set-jetting

If you’ve ever wanted to visit the set of your favorite movie or TV show, you’re not alone. A top travel trend for 2023 is “set-jetting,” when travelers visit destinations primarily because they were featured in a popular movie, TV show, or book. According to research, 39 percent of travelers have booked trips to places featured on shows or movies ( Expedia ). While people have long been drawn to iconic movie locations, perhaps the earliest example of mass set-jetting was New Zealand’s tourism industry getting a huge boost after the country played a leading role in the “Lord of The Rings” movies. Fans of the “Outlander” books and TV series have also been making pilgrimages to Scotland to see the country that provides the backdrop for their favorite show.

People don’t just want to visit the actual physical set and filming location, but also just the cities or countries featured in a particular production. Keep an eye out for popular shows where the location is as much the star of the show as the actors, such as “The Crown” (England,) “Emily in Paris” (Paris,) and “The White Lotus” (Sicily), as they could trigger a surge in demand for particular locations and experiences relating to the shows, such as a themed tour.

The Potter Trail : Harry Potter-themed walking tours in Edinburgh, Scotland
Red Carpet Tours : “Lord of the Rings” set-jetting specialists
On Location Tours : TV- and movie-themed tours in New York, Chicago, and Boston

7. Sustainable tourism and electric travel

“Ecotourism” has been on the rise for several years, and continues to be popular. According to Booking.com’s Sustainable Travel Report 2022 , 81 percent of global travelers say sustainable travel is important to them, and 50 percent are influenced by news reports on climate change when it comes to booking choices.

So-called “ecotours” let tourists enjoy a vacation while also learning about environmental and sustainability issues in a particular location. Some enable people to do something tangible to help, such as volunteering to plant trees or help to restore habitats. Many travelers these days also seek out “small footprint” or socially-responsible travel. This may not be an eco-tour as such; it could just mean they favor tour companies that take steps to minimize the impact of their tours or incorporate a social responsibility element.

Many travelers also want to stay in planet-friendly accommodations. According to Booking.com’s report, 57 percent of travelers prefer accommodation with sustainable certification. Another related trend to watch is road trips or other travel using electric vehicles. Some car rental companies are adding electric cars to their fleets, and VW has even built an electric version of their classic camper van, the ID Buzz. Within cities, travelers might want to do tours on electric bikes and focus on other more sustainable modes of transport rather than the traditional taxi and car hire approach. In the not too distant future, electric air travel may even become the norm thanks to companies like Eviation that are developing electric planes.

Jumbari Family Safaris : Eco-safaris in Africa.
OneSeed Expeditions : Responsible adventure travel around the world.
EV Travel : Sustainable adventures in Iceland

8. Indigenous experiences

Countries around the world are making an increased effort to reverse past wrongs when it comes to treatment of Indigenous peoples, while also empowering Indigenous communities to take a lead in areas like travel and tourism. Canada is one nation going through a period of reconciliation as it faces up to and attempts to make amends for its colonial past. This has resulted in a huge growth in Indigenous-led travel companies, experiences, resorts, and accommodation options.

Australia and New Zealand are also seeing a growth in opportunities for travelers to support and learn about Indigenous communities, histories, and cultures.

If you are an Indigenous entrepreneur, you may find great opportunities available with an increase in programs that support Indigenous tourism in these countries. For others, there may be opportunities for partnering with or supporting Indigenous-led businesses and organizations in your region.

Worn Gundidj at Tower Hill : Tours offering the chance to connect with Australian aboriginal culture
Road Scholar : Offers a New Zealand cultural experience, learning from local experts
Haida Style Expeditions : Cultural trips on Haida Gwaii on Canada’s west coast

9. Budget-friendly travel

The economic upheaval we saw through 2022 looks set to continue through 2023. Inflation and cost of living rises mean while the desire to travel is still strong, many travelers will still have at least one eye on their budget. This could mean more interest from thrifty travelers in camping, self-catering, and all-inclusive holidays. Activities and vacations that involve renting rather than buying equipment could also be more popular.

Packlist : Camping gear rentals in Canada

Lazy Days : Camper van rentals in Ireland

Tampa Bay eBikes : eBike rentals on the Gulf Coast

10. Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive

Friends jumping off a boat into tropical waters

While there will be a lot of budget-conscious travelers in 2023, there are also plenty of opportunities in the luxury travel market, including two types of travel luxury travelers may previously have turned their noses up at—all-inclusive trips and cruises. The luxury cruise market, as well as the cruise market in general, is set to rebound in style. CN Traveller reported on “ a new breed of luxury yachts from the world’s leading hotel brands,” including The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection , which boasts “ the most sophisticated and expensive civilian ship ever built in Spain.” Cruise companies like Scenic and Emerald Cruises are expecting high demand for spots on their luxury ships . If you are on a luxury cruise route, catering your activities to a luxury-seeking clientele, with prices to match, might be worth considering.

Cruises tend to be all-inclusive as standard, but there is also a growth in upscale all-inclusive vacations in general. These experiences offer the best of everything—food, accommodation, and experiences, all for a set (and premium) price. Ikos Resorts will open a new five-star all-inclusive resort in Mallorca in June 2023.

Ama Waterways : Luxury river cruises in Europe
Windstar Cruises : Luxury small-ship cruises
Conrad Maldives Luxury Island : All-inclusive resort in the Maldives

11. Train travel

Passenger train passing through field overlooking mountains

From the “Flying Scotsman” to the “Orient Express,” there are few more romantic ways to travel than by train. However, train travel is also increasingly overlapping with other trends in our list, as it becomes more popular as a way to travel more sustainably by reducing car and air travel, travel slower (unless we’re talking train travel in Japan) and for longer, and travel to more countries on the same trip.

Train travel can also offer scenic views, comfortable travel with spacious seats, sleeping accommodation for longer or overnight trips, and the opportunity to socialize with other travelers, and convenient access to city centres. Piggy-backing the trend toward more immersive travel experiences, train travel also lets travelers see more of a country while mixing with locals. Many countries and rail companies, especially in Europe, offer passes that let travelers visit multiple places in one trip without leaving the ground. If your tours and activities are near a popular rail route, look for ways to capitalize on the increase in train travel by catering to people who may want something to do for a day or two before they move on.

Byway : Lets travelers build their own train vacation
Intrepid Travel : Offers a range of “Train it” itineraries
Glacier Express : Cultural and foodie train trips in Switzerland

12. Glamping

During the pandemic, with international travel off the menu for most people, RV rentals spiked dramatically . Road trips made it easier for tourists to physically distance from other travelers in a post-COVID world, and “glampervan” vacations became popular. Glamping is still on the rise in 2023; the glamping market is expected to reach US$4.1bn in 2028 ( Stratview Research ). Glamping lets people enjoy sleeping and living in the great outdoors, but with a step-up in comfort from traditional camping. Glampers can stay in everything from classic Airstream trailers to yurts and all manner of other non-tent accommodation.

Woods on Pender : Stay in a classic Airstream trailer on an island.
Huttopia : Glamping getaways in Canada and the US
Under Canvas : Upscale camping in Moab, the Grand Canyon, and other spectacular locations

13. Go solo or go social

While “travel bubbles” are no longer required for COVID-related reasons, group travel continues to rise in popularity. Hotels and tour companies increasingly cater to family groups or groups of friends who want to take a memorable trip together. For example, Atticus Hotel in Oregon’s Bunkhouse room for groups . It’s not just families making up for lost time with “reunion” or “celebration” travel. Tour operator Contiki noticed an upswing in demand for what they call “social travel” from groups of Gen Z-ers who want to get together on a trip to celebrate birthdays, graduations, and other milestones: “Gen Z want to make up for lost time spent together and get travelling.” Another type of social travel piggybacks the rise of “travel influencers” on social media platforms like Instagram. Some popular influencers are pivoting to provide the opportunity for their followers to literally follow them on a trip. People can go on a trip or do an activity with their favorite influencer and a group of fellow followers.

Of course, not everyone has a posse to travel with or wants to travel with others. Solo travel continues to be very popular and has moved from a niche to a mainstream market. A Skyscanner report found that 40 percent wanted to travel solo for mental health wellness reasons, while singles and divorcees ranked highly for being ready to take a solo trip. The report concludes: “There is no longer any stigma attached to taking a trip on your own, and many tour companies cater specifically to this market.”

Flash Pack : Small group adventures for solo travelers in their 30s and 40s.
On the Go Tours : Pre-designed tours for private groups.
My Life’s a Travel Movie : Join social media influencer Alyssa Ramos on a trip

Watch this space: Unusual and niche tourism trends to track in 2023

14. flat pack hotels.

In a move that reflects the growing interest in responsible and sustainable travel, hotel company Habitas have opened a number of flat-pack hotels around the world for “like-minded people seeking connection, inspiration and a better future together.”

15. Crypto trips

A number of tour operators and travel companies now offer travelers the ability to pay with cryptocurrency. Some examples include Borrow a Boat , Soneva Resorts and Get Your Guide .

16. Dark tourism

There has been a rise in so-called “dark tourism,” when people travel to places or sites associated with disasters and darker historical events. Famous examples include Pearl Harbour, Alcatraz, and Hiroshima. If this is the first you’ve heard of this term, it can sound a bit ghoulish. However, travelers who explore these sites generally do so to pay their respects or learn more about important historical events that hopefully will never be repeated.

17. Sober travel

Sober travel has been around for a while, but it mostly catered to people in recovery. In 2023, sober travel is a subset of wellness travel. Travel companies like Travel Sober and Sober Outside have pivoted to target anyone who wants a sober vacation.

18. Virtual travel

Forbes Magazine thinks 2023 will be “the year that tourism in the metaverse takes off.” Travel companies can use VR to give potential customers a taste of the experience they can expect from a tour or location. VR can be accessible through web browsers or people can enjoy a much more immersive experience using VR headsets.

19. Nostalgic travel

Booking.com’s 2023 travel predictions found that 88 percent of travelers want to go on a “nostalgic getaway,” whether that’s theme parks we went to as kids, nostalgic movie locations, or other trips down memory lane.

20. Sleep tourism

Everyone likes a good night’s sleep, especially on vacation, and the travel is waking up to the opportunities offered by a rise in “sleep tourism.” The Park Hyatt New York now offers a stay in their One Bedroom Sleep Suite by Bryte , while Swedish bed brand Hastens opened a branded Sleep Spa . Good night, sleep well.

How to take advantage of innovative tourism business ideas

Illustrations of ideas being locked away

The key to taking advantage of these innovative tourism business ideas and other tourism industry trends is to always be thinking of your next profitable business opportunity. Here are a few ways to keep on top of what’s new and interesting in the travel business:

Maintain an ideas file

Include those “out there” trends that seem absurd the first time you hear them. Think about some recent innovations that would have been dismissed with a laugh not that long ago: Self-driving cars, passenger space travel, drone deliveries… Even that Holy Grail of futuristic inventions, the personal jetpack, is getting closer to reality. All but the most outlandish trends are worth tracking in case there’s a germ of an idea for a new business opportunity in there.

Listen to your audienc e

Hang out in online travel discussion forums, on social media, and in other places where travelers gather to swap notes and ideas or express needs and dreams. You might uncover a new business idea no-one else has come across yet.

Follow your competitors

Monitor what your direct competitors and others in the tourism business are up to. Subscribe to every industry newsletter you can, including those of your competitors, to keep up with emerging trends and help with your business idea generation.

Solicit customer feedback

Be proactive in asking your customers for feedback. Don’t just ask them what they liked and didn’t like about their experience with your company; ask them if there’s anything they would like to do that they currently can’t.

Invest in the right booking system

It goes without saying that every tour operator should offer online booking and take a mobile-first approach. Not doing both of those things makes taking advantage of the above trends very difficult. The customer experience starts the moment they enter your website. Online booking enables them to easily browse, book, and pay for tours anytime and from is anywhere. Learn more about how Rezgo booking software is tailor-made for adventure companies.

At Rezgo, we always have our ear to the ground when it comes to the latest tourism trends and business opportunities. The Rezgo booking system is a comprehensive platform that enables you to become a more profitable business. It can also help you future-proof your business so you can develop and grow as the tourism industry changes. Book a demo today or sign up for free and start using Rezgo

Wondering what to read next? Here are our suggestions: The Future of Tourism: 10 Things Tour Companies Need To Prepare For in 2022 A Guide to Branding in the Travel and Tourism Industry Low Season Strategies to Prime Your Tour and Activity Company for Success

Written By | Rob Mathison

Rob Mathison is a Vancouver-based freelance writer focusing on tech, travel, digital marketing, and education. He is a co-author of The Complete Resident’s Guide to Vancouver.

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40 Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas

From providing lodging to leading guided tours, the opportunities for success in the travel and hospitality industry are numerous. Your potential tourism business can take many different forms as the commodities of traveling are multifaceted and broad.

Whatever your motivation for wanting to begin your entrepreneurial journey T ravel business ideas and Hospitality business ideas are a great place to start!

A guest checking in with a hotel employee.

Best Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas for 2020

1. airbnb business.

An Airbnb business supplies guests with a place to stay within a person’s home. Many travelers are looking for lodging which is a little more personal and unique. Airbnb rentals offer a home feel, versus that of a hotel or motel. Guests may stay as short as one or two days or extended stays up to two weeks.

An Airbnb is a great way to add some extra income, especially if you have unused rooms or lots of space in your house. You will have guests staying in your home, so you should be comfortable talking and interacting with guests. Some homeowners, who travel often, will also rent out their homes when they are out of town. This allows them to receive income and have someone watching their home when they’re not around.

Learn how to start an Airbnb business .

2. AIRPORT SHUTTLE BUSINESS

Airport shuttles transport people between the airport and either their homes, hotels, or where they parked their cars. Airport shuttles are used by business travelers, groups, families, and solo riders. The driver picks travelers up at a predetermined location and drops them off wherever necessary; typically with no more than two stops on each route. Vehicles are generally spacious, with ample room for riders to store their luggage.

Individuals possessing the drive to start their own travel business and the inclination to interact with people would be best suited for this business endeavor. Since much time is spent on the road, the entrepreneur that enjoys driving would be the ideal candidate.

Learn how to start an airport shuttle business .

3. AMUSEMENT PARK

Amusement, or theme, parks feature rides, games, and entertainment options in an outdoor or indoor venue. Customers typically pay a single entry fee for access to the entire park. The successful amusement park model focuses on the customer's entire experience, offering a wide range of services and entertainment options including parking, trams, restaurant options, water parks, roller coasters, live animal attractions, stage shows, arcade games, attractive interactive landscaping, and family-friendly fun. The larger the property you own, the more entertainment choices you are able to offer your customers.

You must be a highly motivated individual ready to sink a large initial investment into the concept, design, and implementation of your amusement park. You may need extensive knowledge in the operation of rides, restaurant and guest services, landscaping design, business practices, and have significant leadership skills.

Learn how to start an amusement park .

4. BED AND BREAKFAST

A bed and breakfast business offers travelers an alternative to hotels and motels, by combining sleeping quarters with a full breakfast. Most bed and breakfasts also promise more unique, intimate settings than other lodging options.

Anyone who enjoys hosting others may be well-suited for owning a bed and breakfast business because guests come to B&Bs for a level of hospitality that hotels and motels don’t provide. Business owners should like talking with people, cooking meals, and making guests feel comfortable.

Learn how to start a bed and breakfast .

5. BIKE RENTAL BUSINESS

Bike rental businesses give customers—who are often, but not necessarily, tourists—bicycles for a short period. Bikes are generally rented for a few hours to recreationally explore the locality. But the customer base might also consist of college students on campus or others who rent for practical reasons. Your business might be a freestanding shop, part of a bike sales and service operation or associated with a hotel or other hospitality business.

Bike rental business owners should be mechanically adept since customers can be hard on bikes. Also, since bikes are often rented to explore the immediate area, you should be highly familiar with your home base and able to suggest tourist attractions. You should have an engaging personality and be motivated to deliver exceptional customer service.

Learn how to start a bike rental business .

6. BIKE TOUR COMPANY

Do you love exploring your home town or popular tourist destinations on your bike? Does it really make your day when you bring a friend along to see the sights? Operating a bike tour company may be right up your alley. Whether you are simply renting bicycles and maps for patrons to use on their own or providing week-long personalized guided tours that include meals and lodging, this can be a rewarding travel business.

If you are going to run a one-man show, you will need to be physically fit, have fantastic people skills, and enjoy managing the many facets of your business. If you are operating a large tourist attraction, the right owner will have a good background in business management with a focus on the service industry.

Learn how to start a bike tour company .

7. BOUTIQUE TOUR BUSINESS

This travel business idea differs from a traditional tour guide service in that the focus is not on the popular tourist destinations. Instead, it focuses more on unique and special experiences. Both local residents and tourists enjoy these types of tours/parties.

People like to do things that feel more authentic and consistent with what locals do versus just taking a sightseeing tour to see the major attractions. These can be very active experiences such as hiking, climbing, bungee-jumping, flying down a wire cable over the tree canopy, whitewater rafting and so much more. Many prefer such active experiences when compared to the traditional bus tours where tour guides describe things as the bus passes them by.

Learn how to start a boutique tour business .

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8. BUS TOUR BUSINESS

A bus tour business provides tours for tourists as well as locals. Tours of scenic and historical areas and other sites of interest are a valuable community service. Bus tours connect people with others for a shared experience. They also educate people about historical landmarks, local history, geography and other important aspects of your city and the surrounding area.

If you are looking to give people the opportunity to learn more about a locale while enjoying the company of others, a bus tour business is right for you. This is your chance to bring people closer together. Bus tours also enhance understanding and respect for cities, towns, landmarks and special sites. Bus tour customers gain a new appreciation for the area in which the tour is conducted.

Learn how to start a bus tour business .

9. CAMPGROUND

If you love the outdoors and some hard work, you could start a campground business. Whether you have land or are purchasing land, you could start enjoying the great outdoors and working for yourself as soon as you get everything set up. You'll provide a place for people who are passing through on their way to another destination and for those who want to enjoy some time connecting with nature. Campers use all sorts of shelters from tents to fully contained RVs.

Before you start a campground business, you'll need the knowledge and willingness it takes to do many things, including accounting, repairs, road maintenance, plumbing, electrical maintenance, and management. You may be able to farm some of these things out, but it is much more cost-effective to do these things yourself.

Learn how to start a campground .

10. CANOE & KAYAK RENTAL BUSINESS

Many people enjoy being on the water, but they either do not own a boat or want to go boating where they can't bring theirs. A canoe and kayak rental business lets people rent canoes and kayaks to take out on nearby waterways. Customers can take canoes out for as little as an hour or as long as a day or more.

Anyone who enjoys canoeing and kayaking may be well-suited to open a canoe and kayak rental business. Business owners also must be strong enough to move canoes and kayaks onshore.

Learn how to start a canoe & kayak rental business .

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Another one of many travel business ideas is a car rental company. A car rental business rents vehicles at affordable daily and weekly prices. All sorts of different parties are interested in car rentals. Common customers include business and leisure travelers, those whose vehicles are out of commission and businesses.

This business is ideal for someone who has a sincere interest in automobiles, automobile maintenance, and the driving experience.

Learn how to start a car rental business .

12. CORPORATE RETREAT CENTER

Many companies take employees on retreats for training, development, and team-building experiences. Corporate retreat center businesses offer a place for holding these company-sponsored retreats and frequently help companies plan their retreats.

Anyone who is organized and has strong interpersonal skills may enjoy running a corporate retreat center business. Hosting retreats requires balancing many different tasks, and there’s a constant conversation between the retreat center and the company sponsoring the retreat.

Learn how to start a corporate retreat center .

13. CRUISE LINE

A cruise line has one or several large boats designed to accommodate numerous fun-seeking individuals. This business is centered on providing guests with a good time. Cruise liners are a place for relaxation, socialization, and romance. Cruises are in-demand as they provide people with a fun and relaxing means of vacationing. Cruise lines offer all sorts of social activities on and off the ship. This business is a fantastic way to bring people closer to one another, bolster social ties, and provide people with a sense of belonging.

This is the ideal business or someone who is looking for a way to bring people together for a fun, rewarding and memorable experience. If you are a hospitable individual and enjoy providing people with a good time, you should consider starting a cruise line business. Furthermore, if you enjoy life on the water, good food and entertainment, a cruise ship business is worth considering.

Learn how to start a cruise line .

14. DAY SPA

Day spas provide a relaxing atmosphere and a variety of treatments designed to refresh and rejuvenate. Some of the most common services offered by smaller day spas are facials, massages, manicures and pedicures, waxing, electrolysis, and aromatherapy. Larger day spas with more complex facilities are able to offer additional options such as body wraps, mud baths, or hydrotherapy treatments.

This hospitality business is ideal for those who enjoy relating with people on a personal level to provide services that reduce stress, enhance beauty, and improve health.

Learn how to start a day spa .

15. ECOTOUR BUSINESS

Ecotourism is small scale, low impact tourism that offers travelers an opportunity to learn about the local flora, fauna, and culture. Unlike your standard tour guide service, the focus of ecotourism is to educate guests on how they can positively impact the environment and community they’re visiting. Tourists are able to immerse themselves in the culture and habitat, gaining an understanding of the positive impact each can have on the other. Ecological sustainability and responsibility are the heart of this educating and rewarding experience.

As many consumers ponder the environmental impact humans have had on our environment, there are many who have taken it upon themselves to get out and do something about it. They’ve made it their life’s mission to make positive strides, educating others along the way. Entrepreneurs who have made this their lives’ work and who truly enjoy igniting this passion in others would be best suited for this travel business venture.

Learn how to start an ecotour business .

16. FISHING CHARTER BUSINESS

Many people enjoy fishing, but few people have boats, tackle, and knowledge to go fishing far from shore. Fishing charter businesses take people on fishing trips that they otherwise wouldn’t be able to experience. These trips may range from going into swamps to venturing far offshore. Customers are usually allowed to keep any fish that they catch (assuming the fish are legal to keep).

Anyone who is passionate about fishing and enjoys sharing that passion with other people may be well-suited for running a fishing charter business. Customers expect fishing charter captains to be knowledgeable about and have a love for fishing, and sharing that knowledge and love helps ensure customers have a great time.

Learn how to start a fishing charter business .

17. GLAMPING BUSINESS

A glamping business is next on our comprehensive list of travel startup ideas. Glamping, or "glamorous camping," has taken England by storm and is quickly becoming popular within the United States. Although there aren’t any official statistics for glamping in the U.S., industry insiders have seen a big increase in demand recently. For entrepreneurs, this demand represents an exciting opportunity.

People who enjoy connecting with others and being outdoors may enjoy running a glamping business. Interpersonal skills are necessary because much of the business involves making guests feel welcome. A passion for the outdoors is helpful, for glamping is largely about connecting with nature.

Learn how to start a glamping business .

18. GOLF COURSE

Golf courses provide these people with a place to play the sport. Most courses are 9 or 18 holes, and they may have other amenities, such as clubhouses and pro shops. Anyone who is well-versed in a variety of aspects of business and enjoys golfing themselves may be qualified to run a golf course.

It’s important to have a broad business background because golf courses are multi-faceted businesses. Running one might include course maintenance, employee management, restaurant service, event hosting, and investment opportunities.

Learn how to start a golf course .

19. HAUNTED ATTRACTION

A haunted thrill park is any space designed to entice customers by offering a scary or thrilling experience. Americans spend about $7 billion on Halloween, and $300 million on haunted houses. Haunted thrill parks may be located in makeshift, temporary houses, corn mazes, or even old prisons or asylums. Typically, workers will dress up in costumes and pop out at customers to give them a fright. Props such as fake chainsaws or straight jackets are often used alongside fog machines and soundtracks of creepy noises.

There is an art to scaring people while keeping them safe, so an entrepreneur will have to coordinate the right scenes while ensuring workers understand how to handle the guests. Those who already have a love of haunted houses likely understand what's currently out there, and what people would like to see in the future.

Learn how to start a haunted attraction .

20. HELICOPTER TOUR BUSINESS

A helicopter tour business takes customers on short flights so they can view their city from a bird's-eye view. This is typically marketed as a more expensive service for a more adventurous clientele, and it adds a touch of excitement to any community.

This business is ideal for those already licensed to fly a helicopter, as there is a significant investment of time and money required to acquire a license. As such, it typically makes a good business for retired military personnel. Aside from a knowledge of helicopters, one of the best qualities for this business is to be a “people person,” as you must be able to charm customers before, during, and after the flight.

Learn how to start a helicopter tour business .

Start a Travel and Hospitality Business In Your State

21. hotel business.

A hotel can be any commercial building that charges money to travelers who need a room to stay. This can be anything from a standard multi-unit building to luxury stand-alone villas. As airline prices drop and the economy improves, corporate and personal travel continues to increase. The hotel industry generated just under $200 billion in revenue in 2016.

This startup idea is good for someone who enjoys the hospitality business. Those who run hotels have to be adept at catering to a number of different needs, so an owner will need to be flexible when it comes to how they respond to different travelers and consistent when it comes to delivering unparalleled customer service. From business travelers to young families, each guest will have their own priorities when it comes to where they stay.

Learn how to start a hotel business .

22. HOUSE-SITTING BUSINESS

House sitting is a service offered to customers who are out of town or otherwise away from the home. House sitters may look after pets, plants, or just the home itself. House sitters help the community in a number of ways. They can ward off criminals by simply being in the house, and they keep cats and dogs from having to be put into kennels.

This business is good for those who want to maintain people’s homes while they’re away. Ideally, house sitters should be animal lovers who know how to take care of a variety of different types of dogs and cats.

Learn how to start a house-sitting business .

23. KENNEL BUSINESS

Many dog owners, for a variety of reasons, don’t bring their dogs with them on trips. A kennel business gives dog owners a safe place to leave their dogs while they’re away. At a kennel, dogs have a safe place to rest, are fed and get exercise.

Anyone who loves dogs may be well-suited for owning a kennel business, as most of the work involves taking care of dogs. Owners often have to play with dogs, and they sometimes need to physically move stubborn pooches. Therefore, owners should be in decent physical condition.

Learn how to start a kennel business .

Boat owners need a place to keep their boats, both during the boating season and the off-season. While some boats can be kept on a trailer and launched, other vessels cannot -- and even boaters who have trailerable vessels often don’t want to have to launch and take out their boat every time they go out on the water.

A marina business offers boaters a place to keep their boats, docking or mooring them in the water during the boating season, and storing them on land for the rest of the year.

Learn how to start a marina .

25. PARTY BUS BUSINESS

One more of several popular travel business ideas is a party bus business. A party bus business will transport people for major events, so they don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting from place to place. While people on the bus are generally invited to consume alcohol (if they're of age), party buses don’t necessarily have to offer adult beverages as a part of their business model.

This business is excellent for someone who understands both the large and small aspects of major events. Clients want to be able to relax and feel as though they're taken care of, so they need someone who is confident in making decisions quickly and being able to think on the fly in the face of potential hiccups or even outright emergencies.

Learn how to start a party bus business .

26. PET-SITTING BUSINESS

Pet sitting businesses offer pet owners a variety of animal care services, including exercising their pets while they are at work. They also provide an affordable alternative to boarding pets at a kennel during vacations or business trips. Being able to remain in their own home environment can reduce separation anxiety for both pets and their owners.

This is a great business idea for animal lovers who enjoy walking and staying active. It’s ideal for people who prefer lower stress levels, since spending time with pets has been shown to reduce stress. Those who are compassionate and responsible, yet prefer to work alone and be their own bosses as well as make their own schedules thrive in this type of business.

Learn how to start a pet-sitting business .

27. SCOOTER RENTAL BUSINESS

A scooter rental business offers customers a fun and affordable option for short-term transportation. For most, scooters can be rented with hourly, half-day, and whole day rates.

If you have experience in retail sales or product rentals, knowledge of small engines, a strong work ethic, and a business mind, a scooter rental business could be your ticket to financial independence. Especially if you have a background in scooters and motorcycles—either as a rider, enthusiast, or from working in a motorbike retail business—your expertise could set you apart from the competition.

Learn how to start a scooter rental business .

28. SCUBA DIVING BUSINESS

Scuba diving affords an unparalleled experience with the underwater world. However, safe diving requires training, equipment, and often a guide. Scuba diving businesses provide divers with the training, equipment, and local knowledge they need to have a fun and safe time underwater.

While scuba diving businesses can generate sizable profits, most business owners don’t get into this type of work solely for the financial return on investment. Instead, they’re passionate scuba divers themselves and are drawn to the scuba lifestyle. They like the idea of making money doing a sport they love.

Learn how to start a scuba diving business .

29. SKI RESORT

Ski resorts are one of the main places people go for wintertime fun. Resorts offer skiing, snowboarding, equipment rentals and lessons. Many resorts also have concessions, a restaurant, a bar, and other amenities.

Someone with a diverse skillset and background in business may be well-suited for running a ski resort business. The multi-faceted nature of ski resorts requires knowledge of multiple aspects of running a business. For instance, running a ski resort business might include equipment maintenance, snowmaking decisions, concession management, and program creation.

Learn how to start a ski resort .

30. SKYDIVING BUSINESS

Customers of skydiving businesses receive access to the complete experience, either in tandem with an experienced jumper or solo. The entertainment package includes the airplane ride, all equipment, landing site—also known as the dropzone or DZ—and the leadership/coaching of a jumpmaster. Other products or services might also be offered through the business, from parachute training before the jump to photography or video production of the jump.

Most people who would consider starting such a business are experienced jumpers, but that’s not mandatory. You should, at a minimum, feel comfortable convincing partners or investors and officials of the wisdom of your plans and your skydiving business’ value to the community.

Learn how to start a skydiving business .

31. SNORKELING BUSINESS

A snorkeling business will typically sell or rent out various safety gear and snorkeling equipment to water-lovers of all ages. These travel businesses can also offer tours to their customers in addition to or instead of a physical store location.

Owners should ideally have an inherent love of the water, so they can introduce their passion for exploration to new generations of snorkelers. They should also enjoy working with people who may not know very much about how to use the equipment.

Learn how to start a snorkeling business .

32. SOUVENIR SHOP

As the owner of a souvenir shop, you’ll stock your retail store, cart or kiosk with an inventory of interest to tourists. Your offerings will reflect the demographics and socioeconomic strata of the market. For instance, if you’re at a vacation destination that draws young families, you might stock novelty trinkets, toys, t-shirts, candy, and gum. However, if you’ll attract more sophisticated travelers, you might sell pricier jewelry with a local slant -- ie, designed with stones or gems found in the region.

You can succeed if you know your market. You must be able to match the inventory with the needs of vacationers and at an affordable price point.

Learn how to start a souvenir shop .

33. SUMMER CAMP

Successful summer camp business owners respond to the needs of their customers and communities by developing curriculum and activities that focus on their specific interests, goals, and objectives. Traditional summer camps offer outdoor activities such as hiking, building campfires, and canoeing. Sleep-away camps offer food and lodging as well as trained supervision during physical and educational activities. Day camps do not include lodging and offer more specialized learning activities such as computer science, performing arts and music. Today, there are summer camp programs available for nearly every imaginable purpose, interest and need.

This business is a good choice for people who love teaching but prefer a beautiful natural setting to a formal classroom. High-energy individuals thrive on the combination of physical and mental activity this type of business provides. Creative people welcome the challenge of providing fun, interesting, and engaging songs, games, and educational activities for campers. Those who enjoy working with and enriching the lives of children and families experience a high level of job satisfaction within this industry.

Learn how to start a summer camp .

34. SURFING SCHOOL

Running a surf school and teaching surfing classes is a lifestyle with a dedication to the ocean water. It has the requirement to live on the coast of a country. The best places in America are the west coast of California and the islands of Hawaii. You may also find some decent surfing in other parts of the world such as Australia, Costa Rica, Mexico, and even in exotic places like Fiji and the beach areas of Sanya, China. No matter where you decide is best, you need to love the ocean water, work in a nice surfing spot, and want to teach people how to surf.

Surfers are people who enjoy the surfing lifestyle. Every day is a day at the beach when the waves are good. Surfers who want to teach others are even more special because they need to have patience when being an instructor for first-time learners. The best surfers enjoy daily surfing and catching good waves for them is a spiritual experience.

Learn how to start a surfing school .

35. TOUR COMPANY

Tour guide services are most often offered in cities large, world-famous cities and cities that have rich historical backgrounds. Guests can be taken on a tour by foot or by vehicle, depending upon the distance that will be covered during the tour.

The self-motivator with a thirst for knowledge who enjoys sharing what they’ve learned with others would do best owning a tour guide business.

Learn how to start a tour company .

Learn more about starting a business by visting the U.S. Small Business Administration .

36. TRAVEL AGENCY

Most travel agencies earn revenue through commissions. Consumers often choose agencies because they help cut down on time needed to research various locations and book accommodations. A popular trend in the industry is online agencies, which operate mostly or exclusively online.

This business idea is perfect for individuals who are passionate about travel, love learning about and visiting new places, and are very detail-oriented. Travel agency owners have very flexible hours but usually only after they have an established book of clients.

Learn how to start a travel agency .

37. TRAVEL PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS

A travel photographer uses their camera to provide high-quality images to a variety of clients that may include websites, travel blogs, print magazines, television ads, and framed prints for sale. You will need to travel extensively to a variety of locations to deliver the landscapes, hotel rooms, and recreational shots that your clients are looking for. You'll work hard to develop a variety of clients who work with you to determine where your next shoot should be while your self-promotion and marketing will reach out to new clients.

A successful travel photographer will have extensive knowledge of how to use their camera to get the highest definition images containing dramatic landscapes. They will need to enjoy living on the road, hiking, and exploring distant locales to get the perfect shot. They should be sociable and able to toot their own horn in order to develop new clients and customers.

Learn how to start a travel photography business .

38. WALKING TOUR BUSINESS

Next on our list of travel business ideas is a walking tour business. Tourists are constantly in search of hidden gems and insider knowledge about their destination, which is what walking tour businesses provide. These travel businesses take tourists on guided explorations of an area, during which time tourists see both famous locations and lesser-known attractions while getting lots of local knowledge.

Most walking tours explore the area through a particular interest, and there are tours for all kinds of interests. For example, in New York City there are walking tour businesses that offer guided explorations of the city’s haunted locations, architecture and street art.

Learn how to start a walking tour business .

39. WATERPARK

Amusement parks are a popular vacation destination for families all over the world. Few things are more exhilarating than experiencing the rides, laughing and screaming as you make your way to the bottom. Couple that with water, and you have a family-friendly adventure for individuals of all ages.

Entrepreneurs with previous small business ownership or management would be best suited for this business venture. Innovators who enjoy a fast-paced atmosphere and are dedicated to reinvesting a portion of their profits can turn a small waterpark into a million-dollar enterprise in a matter of years.

Learn how to start a waterpark .

40. WINE TOUR BUSINESS

Wine tours educate people about grapes, fermentation, and flavor profiles. From varietals to harvesting techniques to the best way to taste the wine, tours are meant to be as informative as they are fun. These tours can help people appreciate all that goes into a single sip, and promote local businesses by exposing their product to more people.

This travel business is good for someone who already has a healthy interest in how vineyards work, and who enjoys teaching people in an entertaining way. Ideally, it should be far less about enjoying a good bottle of wine, and far more about being a good (and organized) educator.

Learn how to start a wine tour business .

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12 Travel Business Ideas

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If there is one thing most people can agree on, it’s that traveling is one of life’s great pleasures. Exploring new cultures, visiting the world’s great wonders, spending days following your instincts and trying exotic foods — there’s a lot to love about discovering new places.

If you want to take your love of travel to the next level and start a business to serve your like-minded wanderlusters, you should consider these fun and profitable travel business ideas.

What is a travel business?

There are two overarching types of travel businesses worth considering. First, you could think about starting a business that provides services or goods for travelers — running a hotel, for example. The second option is to start a business that you can run from anywhere in the world while you yourself travel. In many cases, this type of business revolves around travel, such as working as a travel writer and writing stories about your latest adventures.

What makes a travel business idea a good one?

A good travel business should combine two things: reliability and excitement. When you run a travel business, your clients need to be able to trust you. They need to feel confident that the tour group you run is legitimate and will show them the best sites. Or that the blog you run about the best inns on the east coast actually gives honest reviews.

At the same time, you need to offer services or create content that excites your customers. Introduce them to sights off the beaten path. Help them unwind and relax while on their vacation. Find a way to create trust amongst your customer base while offering them an experience they can’t find anywhere else.

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Once we uncover your personalized matches, our team will consult you on the process moving forward.

12 travel business ideas for 2021

If you’re unsure of what type of travel business ideas could work for you, keep reading for some popular options. These ideas range widely and you should put your own creative spin on them. At the end of the day, think back to your passion for traveling. What services or products have made the most difference to you on past trips? What did you feel was missing? Can you find a way to make a living on the road while capitalizing on your skillset? Chances are, you have more ideas at the ready than you think.

1. Modernized bed and breakfast

B&Bs have been popular for decades — they outlive trends and are clearly here to stay. But why not step things up a notch and find a way to modernize the bed and breakfast experience a little bit? Make sure your rooms are outfitted with nice televisions so guests can enjoy a movie night in their cozy room. Offer unique culinary experiences. Decorate in a way that feels timeless but fresh at the same time. A bed and breakfast is a smaller operation than a hotel and is a great way to break into the hospitality business. If you need a little help funding your bed and breakfast, consider one of these financing options.

2. Off-the-beaten-path tour guide

Tour groups are a dime a dozen. But if you can offer a unique tour, you’ll be able to stand out from the competition. What do you love about your city? Maybe you can find the best coffee, chocolate, or salty treats at your local shops and restaurants. Organize a foodie tour of your town that highlights how your local delicacies are made. Of course, you’ll have to include tastes of all the local treats.

Or consider organizing a tour of some lesser-known sites. Surely there is a natural activity or historical site that tourists haven’t caught onto yet. If you can give your travelers a taste of local life or make them feel like they’ve uncovered something special, then your tour guide business will thrive. Maybe some locals will even join in on the fun.

3. Glamping

Here’s a fun fact for you: By 2025, experts estimate the glamping market in the United States alone is projected to reach a revenue of around $1 billion. It sounds like the great outdoors is getting a little fancier. What exactly is glamping? Glamorous camping.

Glamping combines nature with the comforts of home, and usually Champagne. That’s right, after a long day of hiking or river rafting, campers can return to decked-out campsites that offer spa treatments, wine and gourmet meals. The perfect combination of adventure and relaxation. If you can create a campsite that melds the best parts of nature with resort living, you’ll be in business.

4. Remote travel agent

Long gone are the days of travel agent offices. The truth is, thanks to the internet it’s easier than ever to plan a trip. Anyone with a computer can choose between hundreds of flights, hotels and restaurant reservations. The ease of access is great, but the time it takes to weed through those options might not be available to everyone. This is where a remote travel agent comes in.

You’ll work out of your own home which saves the customer costs on overhead expenses. For a more affordable price, remote travel agents can help busy travelers plan their next vacation from anywhere in the world. Help them book the best hotels, unique activities and provide them with all of their important travel bookings and documentation.

5. Travel consultant

Even though their job titles sound similar, a travel consultant is different than a travel agent. A travel consultant usually specializes in solving complex travel issues. For example, they may specialize in helping adoptive parents travel abroad to make the task of adopting a child from a foreign country run smoothly. Or they might assist businesses with complex assignments like learning how to cater to new cultures during business deals. Travel consultants generally focus less on tourism and more on helping iron out logistical issues.

6. Travel photographer

As a travel photographer, you’ll have plenty of options for making money off your passions for travel and photography. You can sell photos taken while traveling to newspapers, magazines and websites. Or you can sell your favorite shots in your own online shop. You could license your gorgeous photos of Paris or Peru to companies that create goods like calendars or art prints. Perhaps you want to help create stock photography for big companies like Getty Images. Point being, we live in a very visual world and there are plenty of options for starting a travel photography business.

7. Create a haunted attraction

Want a surefire way to make sure your hotel or guided tour drum up enough business? The solution is easy: Make it haunted. This may seem like a business better suited for Halloween time, but people are ready to get their scare on year-round. These haunted attractions do particularly well in historic locations like towns on the east coast where there are plenty of ghost stories to go around. Do some research and then let your imagination take care of the rest. You might want to load up on business insurance just in case your haunted attraction is too scary.

8. Teach cultural classes

It’s time to share your unique culture with the world. Offer fun classes for tourists that will make them feel like locals, whether that be a Creole cooking class or an art class that captures a local style of painting. Help tourists pick up a skill that they won’t learn anywhere else, like how to make an authentic cup of Turkish coffee or bake a truly Parisian croissant.

9. House or pet sitting

Sometimes a travel business does its best work when helping travelers look after what they left behind. House or pet sitting can be a great side hustle to take on if you’re looking for a little extra cash. Of course, you could always start a larger business like a kennel that takes care of beloved pets while their owners are jet-setting around the world. Some people are even willing to pay for plant hotels that keep their plants in tiptop shape until they return from vacation. Consider a travel business that will give your customers peace of mind while they are far from home.

10. Travel blogger

You’ve traveled the world and, boy, do you have some good stories to tell. So why don’t you then? By starting a travel blog, you can make money by sharing your experiences. You can offer up travel advice, share photos from your journey and review restaurants and hotels. Once your blog picks up some steam (aka gets a decent amount of pageviews and monthly visitors) you’ll be able to make money from ads hosted on your website, sign up for affiliate programs, or create sponsored content for brands. If this sounds like your ideal business, this guide can help you start a travel blog.

11. Ecotourism

Sustainability is all the rage right now and for good reason. It makes sense that those who value exploring the world want to keep it safe. Which is why ecotourism (also known as green tourism) is such a potentially profitable idea. Essentially, ecotourism allows travelers to learn about local culture and wildlife in a low-impact way.

Generally, these types of tours or services (like hotels) try to minimize the impact of traveling while giving tourists the education and tools to help positively impact the environment and community they visit. Many travelers are even willing to spend more on hotels if they are environmentally friendly. If you can find a way to show tourists a good time while helping them make a positive impact, you’re sure to have a popular business on your hands in no time.

Start Your Dream Business

12. Home rentals

Do you have a gorgeous pool house just waiting to be turned into an oasis for weary travelers? Consider starting a home rental business. You can list any rooms in your house that are available to rent out (or even your entire house if you’re headed out of town yourself) on home rental websites like Airbnb or HomeAway. If you live in a popular area where hotels are particularly pricey, then you may be able to fetch a pretty penny by allowing customers to rent rooms in your home.

The best part is, you get to set your price. You only have to rent to people who can meet your price and who you think would be a good tenant (Hint: They need as many good reviews as you do). This can be an ideal business for bringing in extra money to help fund your next vacation. Just make sure that your town, apartment complex, or homeowners association allows you to rent out your property and that you’re following proper regulations.

This article originally appeared on JustBusiness, a subsidiary of NerdWallet.

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50 Travel & Tourism Business Ideas

Introduction

Wanderlust! The urge to travel, explore new places, and experience different cultures is deeply rooted in the human spirit.

As the world becomes more interconnected, the travel and tourism industry continues to thrive, presenting numerous opportunities for entrepreneurial minds.

In this blog post, we’ll embark on an exciting journey, exploring 50 creative business ideas that cater to the ever-growing demand for unique and memorable travel experiences.

Accommodation

1. tiny house rentals.

Offer a unique and eco-friendly accommodation experience by renting out tiny houses in scenic locations. Tiny houses are not only charming but also appeal to travelers seeking a minimalist and sustainable lifestyle.

2. Glamping Retreats

Combine the luxury of a hotel with the adventure of camping by setting up glamorous camping sites in picturesque natural settings. Provide luxurious tents, high-end amenities, and personalized services for a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience.

3. Homestay Network

Create a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, allowing them to experience authentic cultural immersion by staying in a family’s home. This concept promotes cultural exchange and provides an affordable alternative to traditional accommodations.

4. Treehouse Resorts

Tap into the childlike wonder of tree-dwelling by constructing eco-friendly treehouse resorts. These unique accommodations offer guests a chance to reconnect with nature while enjoying modern amenities.

5. Houseboat Rentals

Capitalize on the growing trend of water-based accommodations by offering houseboat rentals in scenic waterways or coastal regions. Houseboats provide a unique way to explore destinations while enjoying the comforts of home.

Transportation

6. electric bike tours.

Offer eco-friendly and active tours of cities or natural landscapes using electric bikes. This concept appeals to travelers seeking sustainable and engaging ways to explore their destinations.

7. Luxury Coach Service

Provide a high-end transportation service for travelers seeking comfort and convenience. Offer luxurious coaches with amenities like Wi-Fi, entertainment systems, and gourmet snacks for long-distance travel or city tours.

8. Vintage Car Rentals

Cater to the nostalgia and charm of classic automobiles by offering vintage car rentals. This unique transportation option can be a hit with travelers seeking a retro experience or those attending special events.

9. Private Aviation Services

For affluent travelers, offer private aviation services, such as charter flights, helicopter tours, or private jet rentals, providing a luxurious and convenient way to travel.

10. Campervan Rentals

Capitalize on the growing trend of road trips and van life by offering campervan rentals. These versatile vehicles allow travelers to explore destinations at their own pace while enjoying the freedom and convenience of a mobile home.

Tours and Activities

11. virtual reality tours.

Leverage the power of virtual reality (VR) technology to offer immersive tours of destinations, historical sites, or even outer space. This innovative concept appeals to tech-savvy travelers and those seeking unique experiences.

12. Food Truck Tours

Combine the love for food and exploration by organizing tours that guide participants through the local food truck scene, sampling diverse culinary offerings along the way.

13. Experiential Workshops

Offer hands-on workshops that teach travelers new skills or crafts, such as pottery, painting, dance, or cooking classes, allowing them to immerse themselves in the local culture while acquiring new knowledge.

14. Adventure Sports Tours

For thrill-seekers, organize tours that incorporate adventure sports like rock climbing, zip-lining, surfing, or skydiving, catering to travelers seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences.

15. Sustainable Ecotours

Promote responsible tourism by offering sustainable eco-tours that educate travelers about conservation efforts and sustainable practices while exploring natural wonders and wildlife habitats.

Food and Beverage

16. pop-up dining experiences.

Create unique and temporary dining experiences by setting up pop-up restaurants in unconventional locations, such as rooftops, abandoned buildings, or scenic outdoor spaces.

17. Craft Brewery Tours

Tap into the growing popularity of craft beer by offering guided tours of local breweries, providing insights into the brewing process and allowing visitors to sample unique flavors.

18. Farm-to-Table Dining

Collaborate with local farmers to create a farm-to-table dining experience, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients and promoting sustainable food practices.

19. Wine Tasting Tours

Organize tours that take visitors through local wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms, providing an educational and indulgent experience for wine enthusiasts.

20. Street Food Tours

Guide travelers through the vibrant street food scene of a destination, introducing them to authentic local flavors and culinary traditions while exploring the city’s cultural fabric.

Retail and Souvenirs

21. artisan marketplace.

Curate a physical or online marketplace that showcases unique and handcrafted products from local artisans, providing travelers with authentic souvenirs and supporting local economies.

22. Sustainable Fashion Line

Tap into the growing demand for ethical and sustainable fashion by creating a clothing line using eco-friendly materials and promoting fair labor practices. Offer stylish and responsible travel apparel and accessories.

23. Personalized Photo Books

Offer a service that creates personalized photo books, allowing travelers to capture and preserve their journey’s memories in a beautifully curated keepsake.

24. Local Artisan Workshops

Organize workshops where travelers can learn from local artisans and create their own souvenirs, such as pottery, jewelry, or woodcarving, providing a hands-on experience and a unique keepsake.

25. Virtual Museum Tours

Leverage technology to offer virtual tours of museums, allowing travelers to explore exhibits and collections from anywhere in the world, catering to those seeking cultural experiences without the need for physical travel.

Technology and Apps

26. travel planning app.

Develop a comprehensive travel planning app that assists users in researching destinations, booking accommodations and activities, and creating personalized itineraries based on their preferences and interests.

27. Augmented Reality City Tours

Enhance the traditional city tour experience by incorporating augmented reality (AR) technology, overlaying historical information, interactive visuals, and storytelling elements onto the real-world environment.

28. Language Translation Earbuds

Offer innovative language translation earbuds that provide real-time translation, enabling travelers to communicate effectively and break down language barriers during their journeys.

29. Travel Insurance Comparison Platform

Create a user-friendly platform that compares and recommends the best travel insurance options based on specific trip details, destination, and traveler needs, ensuring peace of mind for adventurers.

30. Contactless Payments for Tourism

Develop a contactless payment solution specifically designed for the tourism industry, allowing travelers to make secure and convenient payments for attractions, tours, and services without the hassle of carrying cash or cards.

Wellness and Relaxation

31. yoga retreats.

Offer immersive yoga retreats in serene locations, combining physical and spiritual practices with healthy cuisine, meditation sessions, and access to natural surroundings for a holistic wellness experience.

32. Digital Detox Getaways

Create a sanctuary for travelers seeking to disconnect from technology and reconnect with themselves by offering digital detox getaways in remote or nature-focused destinations.

33. Spa and Wellness Resorts

Establish luxurious spa and wellness resorts that provide a tranquil escape, offering various treatments, fitness programs, and healthy dining options for travelers seeking rejuvenation and self-care.

34. Mindfulness Retreats

Organize mindfulness retreats that combine meditation, yoga, and other mindfulness practices with scenic locations and expert guidance, catering to travelers seeking inner peace and personal growth.

35. Forest Bathing Experiences

Capitalize on the growing interest in the Japanese practice of “Shinrin-yoku” or forest bathing by offering guided nature walks and immersive experiences that promote relaxation and connection with the natural world.

Sustainable Tourism

36. eco-friendly tour operator.

Establish an eco-friendly tour operator that prioritizes sustainability and minimizes the environmental impact of travel. Offer responsible tours that support local communities and promote conservation efforts.

37. Upcycled Lodging

Create unique accommodations by repurposing and upcycling materials from various sources, such as shipping containers, abandoned buildings, or recycled materials, promoting sustainable and innovative lodging options.

38. Carbon Offset Travel Services

Offer a service that calculates and offsets the carbon footprint of travelers’ trips by investing in verified carbon offset projects, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers.

39. Sustainable Souvenir Marketplace

Establish an online or physical marketplace that curates and sells sustainable souvenirs, locally made products, and ethical handicrafts, promoting responsible consumption and supporting local artisans.

40. Eco-Tourism Consultancy

Provide consulting services to travel companies and destinations, helping them implement sustainable practices, reduce their environmental impact, and promote responsible tourism initiatives.

Niche Experiences

41. pet-friendly travel services.

Cater to pet owners by offering pet-friendly accommodations, activities, and travel services, allowing furry companions to accompany their owners on adventures.

42. Accessible Travel Solutions

Create travel solutions that cater to individuals with disabilities or special needs, offering accessible accommodations, transportation, and tailored experiences that ensure comfort and inclusion.

43. Genealogy Tourism

Tap into the growing interest in ancestry and family history by offering genealogy tourism services, assisting travelers in tracing their roots, visiting ancestral homelands, and connecting with their heritage.

44. Dark Tourism Experiences

For those interested in the macabre and historical tragedies, offer curated tours and experiences focused on dark tourism sites, such as battlefields, cemeteries, and sites of significant historical events.

45. Culinary Immersion Tours

Organize in-depth culinary immersion tours that go beyond traditional food tours, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the local food culture, from farm visits to cooking classes and dining with local families.

46. Literary Tours

Create literary-themed tours that take book lovers on a journey through the settings of famous novels, visiting locations that inspired authors, and exploring the literary heritage of destinations.

47. Spiritual Pilgrimage Tours

Offer guided tours to sacred sites and spiritual destinations, catering to travelers seeking personal growth, spiritual enlightenment, or a deeper connection with their faith or beliefs.

48. Astro-Tourism Experiences

Capitalize on the growing interest in astronomy and stargazing by offering astro-tourism experiences, including dark sky observatories, guided night sky tours, and stargazing retreats in remote locations with minimal light pollution.

49. Adventure Wedding Services

Cater to adventurous couples by offering unique and memorable wedding experiences in stunning outdoor locations, such as beach ceremonies, mountain elopements, or adventurous honeymoon packages.

50. Gaming and Esports Tourism

Tap into the rapidly growing gaming and esports industry by offering tailored travel experiences for gaming enthusiasts, including attending major gaming events, visiting gaming-themed attractions, or participating in gaming-related activities and competitions.

The travel and tourism industry offers a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs to tap into unique niches and cater to diverse traveler interests.
From accommodation options like tiny houses and treehouses to experiential tours and sustainable tourism initiatives, the possibilities are endless.
Technology plays a crucial role, enabling virtual reality tours, augmented reality city experiences, and innovative travel planning apps.
Wellness and relaxation-focused offerings, such as yoga retreats and mindfulness getaways, cater to travelers seeking rejuvenation and self-care.
Niche experiences like pet-friendly travel, accessible tourism, and dark tourism experiences cater to specialized interests and needs.
Sustainable and eco-friendly practices are becoming increasingly important, with opportunities in eco-tourism consultancy, upcycled lodging, and carbon-offset travel services.

Q: What are some unique accommodation ideas for travelers? A: Tiny house rentals, glamping retreats, treehouse resorts, and houseboat rentals offer unique and memorable accommodation experiences for travelers seeking something out of the ordinary.

Q: How can technology enhance the travel experience? A: Technology can enhance the travel experience through virtual reality tours, augmented reality city experiences, language translation earbuds, travel planning apps, and contactless payment solutions for tourism.

Q: What are some sustainable tourism business ideas? A: Sustainable tourism business ideas include eco-friendly tour operators, upcycled lodging, carbon offset travel services, sustainable souvenir marketplaces, and eco-tourism consultancy services.

Q: What are some niche travel experiences that cater to specific interests? A: Niche travel experiences include pet-friendly travel services, accessible tourism solutions, genealogy tourism, dark tourism experiences, culinary immersion tours, literary tours, spiritual pilgrimage tours, astro-tourism experiences, adventure wedding services, and gaming and esports tourism.

Q: How can wellness and relaxation be incorporated into travel business ideas? A: Wellness and relaxation can be incorporated through yoga retreats, digital detox getaways, spa and wellness resorts, mindfulness retreats, and forest bathing experiences, catering to travelers seeking rejuvenation and self-care.

Priyanka transitioned from being a trendsetting fashionista to an influential business blogger. With an innate passion for style and an astute entrepreneurial mindset, Priyanka carved her own path in the digital landscape, captivating audiences with her unique blend of fashion-forward insights and astute business acumen. Through her posts, she shares her expertise on emerging trends, fashion industry analysis, and valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

When Does a Company Stop Being a Startup?

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Why did PepperTap fail?

35+ creative travels and tour ideas for your tourism business

By Kevin Tjoe — 7 Feb 2022

business ideas customer experience marketing

Updated August 2023 – Are you weary of the monotonous 9 to 5 routine or feeling confined to your desk on a glorious day? Whether you’re aiming to break free from the grind or seeking to elevate your tourism business to new heights, the realm of possibilities awaits. Within the vast expanse of the tourism industry lies the canvas for an incredible business venture. It’s not just about forging a lucrative business, but about channeling your passion into a travel-related venture that resonates with your know-how and aspirations.

Amidst this landscape of opportunities, the spark of a great business idea can set the stage for crafting a truly profitable business. If you’re prepared to infuse your love for experiences with strategic thinking, get ready to unveil over 35 exciting tours and travel business ideas in our latest compilation. Your journey toward a rewarding and unforgettable business experience begins here.

Getting into the tour operator industry

The tourism industry is such a rewarding one to work in. As a tour or activity operator, you can spend your days with great people, share your special part of the world and even raise awareness of important cultural or environmental values.

Of course, even if you don’t directly run tours and activities there are many different ways to build an amazing career in tourism. You could run a travel-related business. For example, if you’re a travel photographer, you could run your own travel photography business. Some other type of business ideas are souvenir shops, hiking gear rentals, running a travel blog or becoming a travel blogger, or even providing catering for tour and activity operators.

Staying open-minded will help you find your ideal niche in the industry and help you achieve your goal of becoming an entrepreneur within the tourism space!

5 tourism business ideas to get started with

When you offer travel tours, you’re offering an enjoyable journey of some kindled by an experienced guide. Some of the hottest tours and travels business ideas right now include:

Walking tours and bike tours
Snorkeling tours
Tours that take into account growing wine and food tourism trends , such as Hideaway Private Tours , Black Swan Tours , Darwin Gourmet Tours , and Mullarkey Tours
Ghost or haunted location tours
Scenic guided tours, such as Italy Pass Tours , Wineglass Bay Discovery Tours, Meteora Thrones , and Bruny Island Safari

There may also be a gap in your local area for a niche tour guide business. For example: if your hometown was the birthplace of a famous musician or even a centuries-old famous cuisine, there could be a perfect opportunity to tap into that interest!

Keep in mind there are two big growth areas to consider when it comes to offering tours for the modern traveler:

Sustainable and ecotourism, because guests increasingly want to minimize their environmental impact when traveling. Find out more about proactive steps that sustainable tour operators can take here
Culturally and socially responsible tours , where guests look for a genuine experience connecting with local people and practices

2. Activities

Tourism activities can encompass a vast array of options from the relaxing to the extreme! These could involve physical activities, connection with natural environments, or even incorporate virtual reality. Unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides are also an option for relaxing activities that involve a thrilling side to them. You could also consider more recent technology that people might be itching to try out, such as jet boarding , flyboarding, and indoor skydiving . There may also be an opportunity to offer intentionally tech-free experiences – such as a retreat with no mobile reception where people can unwind!

Here are some other popular tourist activity ideas:

Escape room experiences
Glowing art rooms or VR rooms
Themed corporate retreats or glamping
Modern summer camps or school camps
Survival or bushcraft trips
Fitness or wellbeing retreats

There are two big notable areas to consider for tour operator activities. Think about:

Activities that are family and group friendly , which are becoming popular within the travel industry as social restrictions ease.
Accessibility . Tourism business owners should be actively looking for ways to support equal access so everyone can enjoy their activities – as best as possible for the activity in question.

3. Attractions

As a travel software provider , we can say with certainty that experiential travel is huge right now. Considering that experiential tourist attractions have both local and long-distance appeal for travelers, they offer an impressive amount of opportunities for growing tourism businesses. These can range from heritage attractions and natural formations to cutting-edge art exhibitions.

Here are more relevant ideas for building an attraction that guests will be keen to visit:

Amusement parks
Niche museums and art galleries
Festivals with amazing settings
Garden and maze experiences
Instagram-worthy photo rooms and experiences , such as Selfie Factory or Happy Place
Magic shows, such as Gentleman Magician
Farms, petting zoos , and horse riding such as Sun Valley Mares and Swan Valley Wagon Tours

Nostalgia and retro appeal are also big right now in attractions, with everything from arcade games to Australia’s ‘ big things’ providing popular. Travelers are increasingly looking to explore the road less traveled and find novel experiences. So – even if you’re in a small regional area you could get in on the action by embracing the bizarre, weird, and wonderful!

4. Shuttles

As interstate and international travel resumes, there will be demand for airport transfers, shuttles , and unique transport options to and from accommodation. You might tap into the wedding transportation market, or offer fun journeys for birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties. Consider how you’ll separate your shuttle service from the rest with either a unique form of transport, added options like food and drink, or a distinctive driver who adds to the experience. You might consider offering:

An airport shuttle business
Traveler shuttles to accommodate tour and travel bookings
A party bus or ferry
Specialist pet or luggage delivery
Unique transport such as tuk-tuks, school buses, or a custom limo
Premium shuttle services .

It’s also worth considering the notable events in your area and how people might want to travel to these. Guests may get excited about a festival bus that transports them from the city to the festival site complete with karaoke, as just one example!

5. Charters & equipment hire

Travelers love charter services because they can have a luxurious or far-flung experience without having to buy all the equipment or vehicles themselves! There are numerous forms of rental businesses you could run such as self-driven charters, car rentals, or equipment hire. You could even go a step further by providing an experienced skipper or pilot as part of the product package. Ideas for modern charter businesses include:

Party yachts for relaxed island days
Fishing charters
Houseboat charters
Private river cruise charters
Hovercraft charters
Kayak, rafting, small boat hire , or paddle board
Helicopter or small plane charters

For tour guides looking at how to run a charter boat business , it’s a great idea to promote the destination as well as the charter experience itself as the two go hand in hand.

A great charter experience is almost always about the escape from the everyday. It’s something guests are willing to splurge on, so be sure to consider ways you can elevate the experience. You can achieve this by offering optional extras and added services. If you are wondering how to sell tour packages with your charter service, extra bonuses like drink options, catering, entertainment, and DJs can help to boost your revenue.

6. Luxury vacation operators & Travel agency business

Guests love Luxury Vacations because they are money-rich but time-poor. They want to draw on the experience and expertise of their trusted travel agent or operator to discover the finest travel arrangements, boutique properties & off-the-beaten-track destinations. However, they may not have the time to research the thousands of options available to them. And because they may well only visit these destinations only once in their life and want to be sure they get the greatest possible experience. They’ll want the security of knowing they will be well looked after whilst visiting far-off countries with different languages and customs with which they are not familiar.

A great example of one such Luxury Vacation Operator is The Luxury Peru Travel Company . Their services provide guests with a chance to discover one of the Seven Wonders of the World – Machu Picchu – in absolute luxury.

Building your tours and travels business ideas in the tour operator industry

If you have a brilliant business idea in mind, then you may be raring to put the wheels in motion. There will be a few things to think about as you build out your business idea, such as finding the best name for your business , developing your business plan , and deciding how you’ll take bookings securely online with real-time availability. One big advantage in the tourism industry is also the ability to partner with resellers , distributors, and other tourism and travel businesses to grow your bookings faster.

Rezdy supports you with both online bookings and a distribution platform developed specifically for the experiences industry. We’re also here to support you as you start your business – simply register for your free 21-day trial or book a demo with the Rezdy team to see how we can help your business.

You can also explore our Resources section to find industry-specific guides across business operations, marketing, and more, with a range of free ebooks available to help you save time and increase your bookings. If you enjoyed this article – 35+ tours and travels business ideas – then make sure to follow the Rezdy blog . There are a lot of marketing tools and tour operator tips designed with businesses like yours in mind.

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Enjoy a free 21-day trial to take a look around and see if we are a good fit for your business.

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Attracting the Chinese traveler: seizing opportunities in a global landscape

European tourism trends that are taking shape and shifting the industry

33 Travel Business Ideas To Start In [2024]

Are you Interested in starting innovative travel business ideas ?

Starting a travel business can be a great way to make money and have fun. You could start your travel agency or find another niche in the industry you know well.

We put together 33 travel business ideas you can start in 2024. We'll highlight real-world examples of other travel businesses to help you see what it takes.

Here's the full list:

1. Start an online travel agency

An online travel agency is a web-based marketplace that allows consumers to research and book travel products and services.

Nearly 1 billion people make travel bookings online. Besides, 70% of travelers research trips on mobile devices.

With the online booking trend on an upward trajectory, 2024 is a great time to start an online travel agency.

How much you can make: $41,666 — $114,200,000/month

How long does it take to build: 180 days (?)

How a first-time founder grew the first-ever online travel agency in Bangladesh to 700+ airlines and one million-plus hotels worldwide, with a 50% increase in revenue in October 2021 compared to pre-Covid sales and aiming to hit break-even by March 2022.

2. Start a surprise travel agency

Are you looking for a scalable side hustle idea and one that allows you some flexibility?

A surprise travel agency is a good option that will enable you to choose a friendly niche market.

Besides, a surprise travel agency lets you gain exposure and experience while it is an opportunity with unlimited income potential.

If you love sharing travel recommendations and always find the best local spots when you visit a new city, this will be ideal for you.

How much you can make: $15,000 — $550,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $250 (?)

How long does it take to build: 90 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 7 hours/week

Whisked Away Surprise Travel is a curated travel service for clients overwhelmed by the planning process, with revenue growth exponentially increasing each year since its launch in March 2017.

3. Start a travel agency

Are you a passionate traveler with entrepreneurial skills? Then starting a travel agency can be a great career choice for you.

As a travel agency, you'll be responsible for linking travelers to providers of all the travel and tourism-related services such as accommodation, transportation, sightseeing, tour guides, local adventure, etc.

Starting an online travel agency is a lot easier than you might think. You'll need to perform market research, get a few necessary certifications (such as your IATA number), study competition, build a website, and do proper marketing.

To maximize earnings, negotiate discounts from the industry service providers, and charge travelers within the market rate.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $114,200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,000 (?)

Marissa Daniels runs a successful travel agency, Spread Your Wings Travel, that hit $100,000 in sales within a year of launch and provides payment plan options for its all-inclusive vacations, and she hopes to help 100 families supplement their income through the business.

4. Start a travel rewards app

A travel rewards app is a special mobile app that helps you earn points and rewards while traveling. These apps are designed to be used by frequent travelers who are looking to benefit from their travels.

If you love to travel but have never been able to afford it then this might be the first step to turning your dream into a reality. By making a travel rewards app you can earn handsome money by monetizing that app.

Creating a travel rewards app sounds like a complicated task. But it can be much easier than you think. You don't need travel industry experience or an office in Silicon Valley to design something that gives people more ways to earn rewards on their everyday purchases.

How much you can make: $150,000/month

How long does it take to build: 800 days (?)

AwardWallet is a loyalty program tracking website which has grown to over $150,000 in monthly revenue, and since launch has retained users mainly through word of mouth due to its superior product in the space.

5. Start a travel blog

If you are an avid traveler, you will agree there is nothing like arriving on a tropical island. The exotic creatures, clear oceans, palm trees, plenty of water activities, and cool weather are some reasons travelers choose tropical destinations.

Do you live on a tropical island? Or maybe you are a blogger looking for the next idea. How about starting a blog relating to tropical island destinations? You can mention all the fantastic sightseeing sites, water activities, and other fun activities available to travelers.

How much you can make: $1,000 — $1,600,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $750 (?)

How long does it take to build: 60 days (?)

Learn how Jessica started a niche travel blog and quit her 9-5 job, earning a living wage through Instagram advertising, sponsorships, and affiliate income, while traveling 3-4 times a month and increasing her website traffic from 400 to 25k page views in a year with Pinterest and Instagram growth tactics.

6. Start a travel-planning app business

In the past, arranging trips on your own was a challenge only a few people could take on. Travel agents were on the rise at the time and handled everything from hotel reservations to ticket booking and traveler's itineraries.

Today, travel agents are at the risk of becoming obsolete as more travelers embrace the online travel trend. According to research, the online travel booking service will experience a compound annual growth rate of 9.0% in the coming years.

Therefore, starting an online travel-planning app business can be a profitable venture. Some potential opportunities include:

Travel itinerary planning apps
Travel booking apps
Location-tracking apps
Language translation apps

The travel-planning apps should provide users with instant availability of information, a one-stop platform, & simplify transactions,

How much you can make: $22,000 — $114,200,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,000 (?)

Visa List is a successful micro start-up that provides one-stop visa information for travellers, earning $5000/month on average with 350K monthly active users and has helped over 2 million users with their visa requirements, all starting from a personal frustration with visa processes.

7. Start a discount travel website

Discount travel websites help travelers save on the cost of travel. Besides, discount travel websites help hotels and travel agents achieve full booking and highlight promotions.

More people search for discount offers on travel websites. Thus, starting your discount travel website can be a lucrative business opportunity.

How much you can make: $70,000 — $1,500,000/month

I Know The Pilot founder Garth Adams shares how he grew his airfare and accommodation deals newsletter from a simple WordPress site to over 780,000 email subscribers, 110,000 app users, and 550,000 Facebook fans on a 100% free business model, and how he's pivoted domestically during the Covid-19 pandemic.

8. Start a travel products business

Even people who deeply love traveling will admit that it can be exhausting. To improve comfort levels, travelers search for everything from neck pillows to waterproof backpacks, water bottles, etc.

Imagine being an online travel store where people can go to and purchase weather-proof backpacks, hand sanitizers, travel masks, umbrellas, outdoor gear, etc.

To reach success quickly, offer them an easy and convenient shopping experience.

TourScanner, a meta-search engine for tours and activities, achieved monthly net revenue of $60k and plans to reach $1M ARR in 2022, utilizing a lightweight business model based on affiliate programs that earned a commission from referrals sent to major travel companies like Viator, GetYourGuide, Musement, and Groupon.

9. Start a travel company

Travel companies sell transportation, lodging, plan trips, and admission to entertainment activities to individuals and groups.

If you love traveling, you can start a company that organizes trips for different people. Choose a niche and ensure travel packages that suit them best.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $114,200,000/month

Under30Experiences is a travel company for people aged 21-35 that runs small group trips around the world, with over 800 five-star reviews on Facebook, Google, and Yelp combined, and nearly hitting $5M in revenue before the COVID-19 pandemic.

10. Start a travel directory

An online travel directory is a website that serves as a one-stop shop for all your travel needs.

It provides travelers with a vast selection of trusted reviews and tips to help people travel across the globe with ease.

These directories usually offer a comprehensive database of destinations, including hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and travel agents, among others.

One of the significant benefits of these directories is that they allow users to add destinations from their travel agent’s listings or local business listings based on reviews and testimonials from fellow travelers.

This feature helps users make informed decisions about their travel plans by providing them with a wealth of information on various destinations.

Additionally, online travel directories tend to have an active community of users who share their travel experiences and offer valuable insights and tips.

This community-driven approach to travel planning ensures that users get reliable and up-to-date information that can help them plan their trips with confidence.

Overall, online travel directories are an excellent resource for anyone looking to explore the world, whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-timer.

They offer a wealth of information on various destinations, making it easy to plan a memorable trip that meets your unique preferences and budget.

How much you can make: $7,000 — $250,000/month

11. Become a travel photographer

Are you a talented creative with an ever-enduring sense of wanderlust and looking for a business to support your travel expenses? Becoming a travel photographer can be a great business opportunity!

Travel photographers focus on documenting places, animals, and sceneries on their photojournalist websites or library and selling to different clients.

For instance, you could get your photo on a national geographic cover or sell it as print art at local museums or galleries.

How much you can make: $2,300 — $233,333/month

How much does it cost to start: $500 (?)

Wandering Aunt founder Robin Finney shares her journey of starting a sustainable travel business, including her decision to leave her corporate marketing job of 11 years, using a simple website and free tools like Mailchimp to grow her email list and attract customers, and the importance of investing in a coaching program for support.

12. Start a travel booking app

The travel industry is a booming business, and it’s only getting bigger. Online booking apps have made it easier for people to book their travel arrangements, and they are becoming more popular each year.

If you want to start a travel booking app, you should have a strong understanding of the travel industry and be experienced in programming too.

The recent trends that are making this business more popular are the growth of the travel industry and the rise of mobile technology. Businesses are looking for ways to offer their customers a convenient way to book travel arrangements.

Starting a travel booking app can be interesting and profitable. It offers a unique opportunity to develop an app that can be used by businesses to reach their customers. This is a great opportunity for those who want to get involved in the travel booking industry and learn more about how it works.

How much you can make: $2,800 — $1,500,000/month

How long does it take to build: 270 days (?)

Tiny Away, a network of eco-friendly 'tiny houses' across Australia, has grown to over 75 private locations and brings in an average of $156,000 in monthly rental revenue, appealing to city dwellers seeking unique and comfortable accommodation experiences.

13. Start a travel consulting business

Many people dream of traveling the world. Starting a travel consulting business is an excellent way to make a passive income, explore different parts of the world, and help others do the same.

As a travel consultant, you will provide advice to clients on various aspects of travel, including destinations, airfare, accommodations, and activities.

The objective is to assist tourists and travelers in planning personalized vacations, offer travel advice, and provide end-to-end travel arrangements for a fee.

By making use of industry knowledge and relationships with hotels, airlines, and destination experts, travel consultants can save their clients time and effort in designing their dream trips.

How much you can make: $14,167 — $1,500,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $3,000 (?)

Rayna Tours and Travels, founded by Kamlesh Ramchandani and Manoj Tulsani, began its journey as a small travel counter inside a Dubai hotel, and has now grown into one of the UAE’s leading destination management companies with earnings exceeding $40 million per year.

14. Start a travel information business

Travel information websites provide information about travel and tourism.

Travel and tourism content on the site may include articles, blogs, and forums. Travelers check websites for details such as booking flights or hotels, providing weather forecasts, or maps with directions to various destinations. If you are starting a travel information website, provide the users with an attractive, easy-to-navigate interface.

It should be well-designed and provide a comprehensive database of information about all the tourist destinations in the world. It is important to remember that such a website must be updated regularly. Content writers must ensure that they are constantly adding new articles, photos, videos, and other media content.

How much you can make: $14,167 — $1,600,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $900 (?)

How long does it take to build: 365 days (?)

15. Start a travel influencer business

Travel influencers create content about travel, tourism, and culture and share their experiences via social media or personal blogs.

If you love exploring new places and are interested in earning a side income, consider becoming a travel influencer. Your role will be to document places you have visited and feature unique formations, cultures, and landscapes.

Share your content via social media channels and include relevant hashtags. Travel influencers earn income through partnerships with travel and tour companies and advertisement revenue based on their niche.

How much you can make: $50 — $416,667/month

PlanIt is a travel recommendation and planning platform that has seen compelling growth in database coverage and user growth, covering every country in the world with several thousand users and a large SEO focus as well as a growing interest from travel and lifestyle businesses to list their details.

16. Start an adventure travel agent

Adventure travel is a type of tourism in which the tourist seeks out and experiences various physical, emotional, and mental challenges.

Adventure travel agents are experts in the field of adventure travel. The travel agents know what to expect and can help you with everything from booking flights, to finding the right hotel, to getting a visa.

Adventure travel agents book trips on travelers’ behalf and helps them plan the trips. They know the best places to visit, what time of year suits that destination, and what experiences are available. A successful adventure travel agency starts with a solid business plan. A good business plan is a foundation for any business and can be the difference between success and failure.

What should you include in your adventure travel agency business plan? A feasibility study, a marketing strategy, financial projections, a SWOT analysis, and more. The key to success is finding a niche you are passionate about and well-versed in.

How much you can make: $800 — $233,333/month

Constructed Adventures, a company that creates custom-tailored adventures for special occasions, charges a flat rate for adventures and expects a profit of around 60k in 2019, having learned valuable lessons about pricing structure for events, always being open and transparent, and using Google Drive to organize expenses and schedules among other tips.

17. Start a travel planning business

Travel planning business is a service that helps people to plan their vacations, holidays, and trips. They offer information about destinations, hotels, flights, and other travel-related services. A travel planner can help you with any aspect of your journey. They will be able to suggest the best destinations for your budget and itinerary preferences.

To succeed in this competitive environment, a travel planner needs to have the following skills:

Excellent customer service skills
A strong understanding of the various destinations
Good knowledge of hotels and other travel-related services
Good communication skills

How long does it take to build: 285 days (?)

Time commitment per week: Min. 5 hours/week

18. Start a travel guide website

A travel guide website is a website that provides information about traveling. It can be for any type of travel, such as air, bus, or train. Some websites provide general information about different types of transportation and destinations.

Other websites may provide detailed information about one type of transportation (such as trains) or one destination (such as Kenya). To start a travel guide website, you need to know your destination and the types of content you want to publish.

A travel guide website can be a blog or a full-fledged website, but it should be informative and well-designed. You should also think about how it will look on mobile devices.

The next step is to create the content for your website and ensure that it's up-to-date with current events in the region. An SEO strategy and an understanding of online marketing campaigns can help travelers find your site when searching for regional information.

Lastly, you should work on building links with other relevant websites so that search engines can find and rank your site better in their search results pages.

How much you can make: $10,000 — $30,000/month

Yolo Journal's founder, Yolanda Edwards, launched a travel lifestyle media brand with a magazine and newsletter that now generates $20k a month in revenue. Edwards' business success can be attributed to understanding the hole in the magazine market and creating trust-worthy insider information.

19. Start a travel bags business

A travel bag business is an excellent way to make money and have a flexible schedule. It's also a great way to stay in shape because you'll walk around with your bags all day. There are many ways to start your own travel bag business.

Here are the most popular methods:

Find a supplier of wholesale bags and buy from them
Start by making custom bags for friends and family members
Start by making custom bags for yourself and then sell them on eBay or Etsy

How much you can make: $300,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,550 (?)

Maxwell-Scott is a British-born luxury leather goods company handmade in Tuscany that sells to AB degree-level educated professionals with high disposable income and is now taking $400,000 a month across websites in 7 countries.

20. Write a travel guidebook

Every travel destination offers a unique experience. Are you passionate about traveling and exploring new locations? You can translate unique experiences into something tangible for other travelers by writing a travel guidebook.

A travel guidebook explains to travelers different things about the destination, including:

What is there to do
What and where to eat
How to get around
Where to stay

If you are enthusiastic about your local neighborhoods and townships, you can share a lot of information and market them as ideal travel locations.

How much you can make: $200/month

Learn how a writer and tour guide turned her niche knowledge of the Spanish island of La Palma into a successful book business, earning ⅓ of her modest income through sales of her self-published guide book to the island's astronomical observatory and other publications, often selling directly to observatory visitors and other outlets, and how the books promote her income-earning work.

21. Start a RV rental business

An RV rental business involves acquiring a fleet of recreational vehicles to rent out as campers for travelers and vacationers.

As an RV rental business owner, you supply motorhomes equipped with living essentials for road trips and outdoor getaways.

With flexibility around RV classes from luxury to budget rates, building inventories and customizing rental packages can create diverse revenue streams.

For hospitality-inclined founders seeking an accessible franchise, an RV rental company presents a promising venture as pandemic-weary travelers prioritize domestic trips focused on flexibility and the outdoors.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $250,000/month

ROAMERICA, a campervan rental company founded by Taylor Hood and Gretchen Bayless who quit their full-time jobs to focus on their business and have expanded their fleet quickly to meet the demand of adventure-seeking customers, with most of their web traffic coming from organic Google searches and a focus on social media and brand awareness.

22. Start an airbnb management company

An Airbnb management company manages every aspect on behalf of an owner and manages a complete day-to-day running of a rental property.

The services offered by the Airbnb management company include: marketing a property, optimizing financing, meeting and greeting guests, repairs, maintenance, and cleaning.

An Airbnb management company fee structure is generally based on commission, flat rate, and guaranteed income.

Airbnb management companies can easily increase the Rental Income by a minimum of 30% to 50% without compromising guest experiences.

To become an Airbnb property manager, one should be able to find homeowners who will be interested in the services offered by you. Airbnb property managers can make an average annual salary of $55,000 or $27 per hour.

How much you can make: $1,333 — $270,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $2,500 (?)

How long does it take to build: 30 days (?)

HostButlers is Ireland's first professional property concierge service for short-term rentals on Airbnb, boasting over 200,000 hosted guests and profitability from month 5.

23. Start a tourist visa information business

The tourist visa information business is a service that provides detailed information to tourists and potential immigrants about the requirements of the country they are traveling to or immigrating to.

The tourism industry has grown tremendously in recent years, which has led to a significant increase in demand for tourist visa information services. You can start a tourist visa information business with little capital investment.

A tourist visa information business is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to start a small business with high profits and low risk.

How much you can make: $22,000 — $250,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $5,050 (?)

24. Become a bed and breakfast owner

Bed and breakfast is a sort of hybrid between a luxury hotel and a private home. The host offers the guests affordable accommodation featuring a bed and breakfast at the room's price. B&Bs offer affordable accommodations and are becoming popular among travelers who prefer a private setting.

If you have realistic expectations, B&B can be a profitable and enjoyable business. To start, you can renovate and turn your home into an inn. Alternatively, you can build or buy a ready house and convert it into a modern B&B.

25. Start a car rental business

Starting a car rental business can be a profitable venture for those interested in the auto industry.

Retail and corporate are the main segments within the car rental industry. Retail car rentals focus on individuals who rent cars for shorter periods, while corporate car rental targets companies that want to transport clients or employees.

If you are starting a car rental business , target airports, hotels, railway stations, commercial offices, and other high-traffic areas.

Market your business, hire employees who will manage the operations and keep records, and purchase business insurance for both cars and employees.

How much you can make: $2,000 — $583,333/month

26. Start an airport bus shuttle services

An airport bus shuttle service transports people and luggage to and from or within airports. An airport shuttle service can be profitable to operate.

If you plan to start an airport bus shuttle, focus on building alliances and partnerships with companies and local businesses that will supply you with customers.

27. Start a travel youtube channel

A travel YouTube channel shares videos of anything from you or your family traveling to places you have been to or even things you have seen. There are several goals for starting a travel YouTube channel. For example, You can make money from it or use the channel to promote your travel agency.

However, you should do some research before starting your channel to know what kind of content you want to create and what type of equipment you need.

28. Start a motorcycle travel guides business

A motorcycle travel guide is a person who is both a rider and an expert on destinations. The guide provides advice, tips, and information about the best places to ride in the area. Motorcycle travel guides are often very knowledgeable about the roads and routes riders should take.

The motorcycle travel guide industry has been growing steadily over recent years as more people want to explore their country on two wheels. If you love adventure and can ride a bike, starting a motorcycle travel guide business can be an effective idea to generate additional revenue as you do what you love.

However, it is not just about telling people what they should do. It is also about listening to what they want and making sure that they have a great time while they are there.

How long does it take to build: 5 days (?)

29. Start a specialty travel business

A specialty travel business specializes in providing a specific type of travel experience. Examples of specialty travel businesses include adventure tours, eco-tourism, and luxury cruises.

These agencies are often called “niche” or “boutique” and have more experience and knowledge about their niche than larger companies. The first step to starting your own specialty travel business is to identify what niche you want to specialize in. It can be anything from destination-specific (e.g., Paris) to specific types of trips (e.g., cruises).

How much you can make: $54,000/month

How much does it cost to start: $1,500 (?)

Augustin Ndikuriyo founded Augustine Tours, a travel company that offers wildlife safari and cultural tour experiences around East Africa, which makes a monthly average of €50K/Month and focuses on transformative tourism that benefits visitors and the local communities.

30. Start a cruise ship travel agent business

Cruise ship travel agents are professionals who work on board cruise ships. They are responsible for helping passengers plan their trips, make reservations for shore excursions, and assist them with any other travel-related needs.

Cruise ship agents may specialize in a specific area of expertise, such as booking tours or finding excursions that match the interests of the passengers. For example, if the passenger is interested in wildlife viewing or diving, then the agent might have extensive knowledge of which tours would be best for them to take.

The first step to starting a cruise ship travel agent is to find a cruise line you are interested in. The next step is to find out if the company has any openings for an agent. If they do, you will need to apply for the position. If not, you may need to wait until one becomes available.

31. Start a travel trailers rental business

Travel and exploration have become a big part of everyday life in our modern society. Due to this, they need comfortable products on the road. One such product is travel trailer rental. People opt to rent a travel trailer instead of buying one themselves because:

They don’t have enough space in their house.
They don’t have the money to buy one.
They want to try out different models before deciding which is best for them.

Thus, there is a ready market for travel trailers rental businesses.

32. Start a travel destination finder app business

Travelling is always an exciting adventure. Travelers want to explore the world and find new places to visit. The travel destination finder app helps travelers find their desired destinations and plan their trips accordingly. The app can be downloaded on smartphones, tablets, and laptops. It has a user-friendly interface that is easy to use.

The user can enter their preferred location, travel date, budget, interests, etc., and the app provides a list of destinations that match these parameters.

Travel app provides information about:

The best time to visit these destinations for each season.
Things that should be taken care of before traveling.
Details about visa requirements.
Top tourist attractions in different countries etc.

How much you can make: $114,200,000/month

Tripadvisor is a global travel advice network with over 1 billion reviews and recommendations from almost 8 million companies that generated 902 million U.S. dollars in global revenue in 2021, representing a 49% increase from the previous year.

33. Start a travel medicine clinic

Are you an expert in tropical and travel medicine looking for a good business opportunity? Starting a travel medicine clinic business can be profitable. The travel clinic offers travel immunizations, other travel medications, and expert travel advisories to dignitaries.

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BUSINESS STRATEGIES

How to start a travel business

Rachel Bistricer

Get started by: Creating a website → | Getting a domain →

If you're passionate about providing exceptional travel experiences and managing a range of services, starting a travel business could be an exciting venture for you. This guide will walk you through the steps of initiating and operating a successful travel business, including the advantages and challenges involved in starting a business , how to go about creating a business website and how to generate revenue in the travel industry.

What is a travel business?

A travel business is a service-oriented business that offers a variety of travel-related accommodations, amenities and services to clients. Travel businesses typically provide services such as:

Trip planning and reservations

Transportation services, including flights, car rentals and transfers

Accommodations, such as hotels, resorts and vacation rentals

Tour packages and guided experiences

Travel insurance and assistance services

Why start a travel business?

The travel industry outlook shows healthy growth ahead, with projections estimating it will see a compound annual growth rate of 3.47% globally through 2028 . This points to promising opportunities if you're considering launching a travel business. With travelers spending billions annually on accommodations, transportation, and related services, the travel sector drives substantial revenue. And as people increasingly seek personalized, one-of-a-kind travel experiences tailored to their preferences, demand is rising for travel companies that can deliver on this. By understanding what today's travelers are looking for and offering customized services that help create meaningful trips and memories, you can position a new travel business for success amid the industry's continued expansion. Tracking trends and honing in on underserved niches can help you capitalize on the sector's upward trajectory.

How to start a travel business in 7 steps

Decide on a travel business niche

Create a business plan

Select a business structure

Obtain business financing or capital

Set up accounting and bookkeeping services

Source specific travel equipment

01. Decide on a travel business niche

By focusing on a specific market segment, such as adventure travel, family-oriented vacations, luxury travel, wellness retreats or sustainable tourism, you can craft tailored offerings that cater to the unique preferences of travelers within that niche. Specializing allows you to differentiate your services, position yourself as an expert in the chosen area and effectively target people seeking those particular travel experiences.

02. Create a business plan

Develop a comprehensive business plan that covers key aspects of your business planning

including identifying your target market, summarizing your executive strategy, implementing a marketing strategy and projecting your financials. This plan serves as a roadmap for your business and aids in conveying your vision to potential investors when seeking funding. It should also include other important business information such as the type of business you plan to start and your choice of a business name .

Here’s a travel business plan template to get you started:

Travel business plan template

Executive Summary

Business Name: [Your Travel Business Name]

Business Structure: [Sole Proprietorship/Partnership/LLC/Corporation]

Location: [City, State]

Founding Date: [Month, Year]

Founders/Owners: [Names]

Mission Statement: [Concise statement of the business’s purpose]

Business Description

Overview: Briefly describe your travel business, including key features, services and amenities.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP): Clearly define what sets your travel business apart from competitors.

Target Market: Identify your primary customer demographic and market segment.

Services and Amenities

List and describe the travel services and amenities your business will offer.

Include trip planning, transportation, accommodations, tour packages, etc.

Market Analysis

Industry Overview: Provide an overview of the travel industry, including trends and growth projections.

Competitor Analysis: Identify key competitors and analyze their strengths and weaknesses.

Target Audience: Define your target customer profile and their preferences.

Marketing and Sales Strategy

Marketing Plan: Outline your strategies for promoting the travel business, including online and offline channels.

Pricing Strategy: Detail your pricing structure and any promotional pricing.

Sales Tactics: Describe how you will attract clients and increase bookings.

Operational Plan

Location and Facilities: Describe the physical location and facilities of your travel business.

Suppliers: List and describe key suppliers for travel-related services.

Staffing: Outline your staffing plan, including roles and responsibilities.

Financial Plan

Startup Costs: Detail initial investment requirements and startup expenses.

Revenue Projections: Provide realistic revenue projections for the first 3-5 years.

Operating Costs: Outline ongoing operating expenses, including marketing, staff salaries and technology.

Funding Proposal

Purpose of Funding: Clearly state how the funds will be utilized.

Amount Needed: Specify the amount of funding required.

Repayment Plan: Outline the proposed repayment plan for loans or investments.

Risk Analysis

Identify potential risks and challenges that may impact the success of your travel business.

Develop strategies to mitigate and manage these risks.

Include any additional documents or information relevant to your business plan.

Examples: Market research data, resumes of key team members, mock-ups of marketing materials.

Summarize the key points of your business plan and highlight the potential success of your travel business.

Conclude with a call to action or next steps.

Note: This template serves as a general guide. Adjust and expand sections based on your specific business model and goals.

03. Select a business structure

When starting your travel business, consider the business entity or structure that makes the most aligns with your business goals. Common options like sole proprietorship , partnership , limited liability company (LLC ) or a corporation each have their own pros and cons.

Learn more: How to start an LLC

04. Obtain business financing or capital

Starting a travel business involves substantial initial costs. You’ll need to secure considerable financing through methods like bank loans, grants, or investments from stakeholders to launch and sustain your business.

Costs that you’ll need to factor in when securing financing for your business include:

Making a website and its maintenance

Marketing and advertising campaigns

Trip planning software and tools

Reservation systems and travel management software

Staff recruitment and training

Initial salaries and benefits for employees

Transportation services (e.g., vehicle fleet or partnerships with transportation providers)

Technology infrastructure (computers, servers, etc)

Licensing and permits for operating a travel business

Insurance coverage for travel-related risks

Office space and utilities

Professional services (legal, accounting, etc)

05. Set up accounting and bookkeeping systems

Establish robust accounting and bookkeeping systems from the outset to track income, expenses and ensure financial viability. This includes managing corporate tax obligations if applicable.

06. Source specific travel equipment

Acquire the necessary equipment for your travel business, ranging from technology infrastructure to reservation systems and transportation vehicles. Some more specific examples of this include:

Reservation management software

Transportation vehicles (if providing transportation services)

Communication systems (phones, email, etc.)

Office furniture and supplies

Technology infrastructure (computers, servers, etc.)

07. Register your travel business

Register your travel business in compliance with local regulations, obtain the required licenses and secure appropriate insurance coverage.

Learn more: How to register a business , How to get a business license

Tips for managing your travel business for profitability:

Once you’ve got your travel business off the ground, you’ll need to understand how to properly run and manage it in order to make sure it’s profitable. Here are some general tips on how to achieve that:

Research your industry

Gain a deep understanding of the travel industry, including market competition, target demographics and financial requirements. If you lack experience in the travel industry, consider working for an established travel agency or volunteering at a local tourism office to acquire valuable insights and experience.

Develop a marketing strategy

Craft a well-defined marketing strategy from the beginning to proactively promote your travel business. Having a user-friendly and informative travel website is essential for attracting clients and showcasing your services. You might also consider starting a travel blog - check out these travel blog names for inspiration.

Invest in customer service for your travel business

Exceptional customer service is crucial for success in the travel industry. Ensure a positive experience for clients from trip planning to their return home. Address customer inquiries promptly and professionally. To ensure your customers have a memorable trip, make yourself a reliable travel business by going beyond just booking flights and hotels. Offer assistance with every aspect of their journey, from navigating lost luggage to providing travel insurance advice. Be the dependable support they need while traveling, like having a 24/7 concierge service at their disposal.

Build partnerships for business operations

To enhance the growth of your travel business, consider establishing key partnerships with airlines, hotels, tour operators and industry stakeholders. These collaborations open doors to exclusive deals, expanding your service offerings for clients. Benefit from preferential rates, premium accommodations and tailored travel packages, enhancing the value you provide. Attend networking and industry events to connect with seasoned professionals and gain valuable insights. By fostering these partnerships and staying up to date with industry trends, you can position your travel business as an authoritative and trustworthy source for people looking to travel.

Travel businesses to inspire (all built on Wix)

The lucky traveler.

Travel expert specializing in planning All-inclusive Vacations, Comprehensive Trip Planning, Points and Miles Consultation and Destination Weddings.

How to start a travel business - Wix user example

A full service travel agency with experience in planning "bucket list" vacations and navigating the travel industry.

Worldwide Fun4All travel

Travel agent focusing on planning tailoring trips to clients needs and interests.

Benefits of starting a travel business:

Operating a travel business allows you to be your own boss, set your own hours and make independent decisions. The demand for travel services is consistently high, particularly in areas with a substantial tourist presence. For business owners who enjoy creating memorable experiences for clients, a travel business can be rewarding on many levels.

Challenges of running a travel business:

Running a travel business requires diverse skills in areas such as trip planning, customer service and operational management. Coordinating travel arrangements, managing client expectations and ensuring timely service delivery can be challenging. Utilizing online booking systems and scheduling software is crucial for managing these aspects effectively. Additionally, the travel industry is competitive, requiring a unique value proposition and effective marketing to stand out.

How profitable is a travel business?

The profitability of a travel business depends on factors such as location, market demand, competition, pricing strategies and operational efficiency. Providing unique and personalized travel experiences can contribute to higher profitability. Streamlining business processes, utilizing technology and building strong client relationships are key factors in achieving success in the travel industry.

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How to make money as a travel agent in 13 unique ways

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Start » business ideas, 10 travel and hospitality business ideas.

As travelers contemplate comfortable new ways to satisfy their wanderlust, opportunity awaits for entrepreneurs who offer safe, fun and authentic experiences and services.

A group of seven friends sit on an orange picnic blanket outside, with a scenic valley in the background and trees strung with lights overhead. In front of the group are glasses of wine, a couple of lanterns, a charcuterie board, and mason jars filled with a golden beverage. Each member of the group holds up a lit sparkler.

With barriers easing, both literally and figuratively, many travelers are in the planning stages of long-awaited reunions, getaways and adventures. For some pleasure-seekers, their post-pandemic plans look very different than they did before. Travel is an industry that has been significantly reshaped , with experiences and expectations now looking vastly different.

With comfort and confidence levels rising anew, all signs point to opportunity for those looking to start a small, travel-related business and parlay their savvy of the tourism scene with a side of next-level hospitality. The sky’s the limit, and these 10 ideas are great starting points for entrepreneurs of various interests and levels of expertise.

Bed-and-breakfast owner

In the current climate, many travelers are road-tripping it to smaller, more quaint destinations, seeking accommodations with a certain charm, character and personal approach to hospitality...and safety. The $3.4 billion bed-and-breakfast industry checks all the boxes and presents a great opportunity for those looking for a way into the tourism landscape without leaving home. Once you’ve established that you are someone who loves hosting and spending time with others, you will need a residence with enough space to create private accommodations for guests, ideally each with their own bathrooms. The more rooms you have to offer, the greater the income potential. B&B ownership also means a significant upfront investment , from securing permits to building out guest rooms, buying furnishings and essentials and accounting for kitchen upgrades and food needs. Sustainability, farm-to-table or plant-based menus and local cooking classes are some of the ways some bed-and-breakfast hosts are creating a point of difference in their market.

Glamping host

Perhaps you don’t have the indoor square footage and blueprints to create bed-and-breakfast accommodations, but you do possess the gift of great hospitality, live in a desirable destination and have an enviable backyard or are near a special natural setting. You could have the makings of a glamping business. Glamping is elevated camping, with upgraded accommodations, from luxurious tents to more unique structures , and an emphasis on comfort and amenities like access to bathrooms, fire pits, cookware to facilitate meal prep...and maybe even an outdoor pizza oven. Glamping is a form of travel gaining in appeal among couples, groups of friends and families, with market forecasts expecting that it will reach $1.88 billion in revenue this year. Before you jump in, make sure to secure all necessary permits for your location. Once you’re ready for visitors, post swoon-worthy photos on social media and all the details on booking sites like Airbnb , Glamping Hub , Cool Camping and Hip Camp .

Private tour guide

If you live in or near a sought-after town or city and love to share everything there is to know (including its best-kept secrets) with others, offering up your knowledge and passion as a private tour guide could be rewarding and profitable. You can essentially set your own schedule, create an experience that is unlike any other in your area and customize tours based on traveler preferences and interests. Building relationships with cool local businesses can be a great way to give tourists an insider’s perspective and support the community. Get your feet wet with the built-in audience and fulfillment support of platforms like ToursByLocals , which connects travelers with private local guides for a percentage of each booking. Build your business by posting tour details on local Facebook groups as well as groups targeted to visitors to your area.

Travel blogger

Travel bloggers have become a trusted source for inspiration, advice and recommendations for those dreaming about or planning trips. These bloggers document their research and experiences, often in great detail, through captivating writing and images that command the attention of travelers—and the advertisers and content providers who want to reach them. Having a niche (like sustainable travel, solo travel or last-minute getaways), a unique voice and great insider tips on local hot spots or ways to save time and money are key. Building a profitable business out of your passion means a lot of relationship building and marketing to integrate affiliate links , content sponsorships and advertising, plus becoming part of the select few that are offered paid travel to write about a locale or hotel. You can also generate income by charging a fee for travel photographers to curate your site with their images, crediting them and linking back to their online galleries. As a starting point, it’s a good idea to spend time on the leading travel blogs to gain insight and best practices.

A background in tourism or hospitality can be a plus, as is niche expertise in a particular city or region.

Tourism and hospitality translator

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, able to not only speak, but write, with creativity, proficiency and ease, there are tour operators, hotels, restaurants and many other travel-related businesses that may be in need of your skills. From websites to brochures to menus, inclusivity is key to welcoming travelers who want to understand the food, art, attractions and culture of their chosen destination without language being a major barrier. As a translator, you can help businesses of all sizes create dynamic digital and traditional communications that assist their foreign customers and create lasting, positive experiences. You can also offer in-person services as a translator for hotel guests in need of an interpreter for tours, business meetings or social engagements.

Photographer

Photographers in the travel space are skilled at capturing the best or most interesting attributes of a destination, its people and its culture. Photography is an exciting profession for those who have mastered the makings of a great shot from angles to lighting and have the equipment, flexibility and adventurous spirit to deliver wonder and a sense of the world through images. Travel photography is not limited to one style or category. It is a field with many different specialties . The key is aligning your passion and talent with opportunities in the marketplace, such as photography for marketing materials, web content or selling your images as prints. An attention-worthy digital portfolio , a social media presence and positive reviews are all key drivers of photography business success.

Local cooking classes

Love to cook and get rave reviews for your culinary skills? Know some recipes that capture the flavors of your hometown, city or region? Why not consider hosting cooking classes marketed to travelers and visitors looking for something special and authentic to do during their adventure? Culinary tourism is on the rise as more and more people crave travel that exposes them to exciting food and drink experiences. An off-the-beaten-track invitation to participate in preparing local flavors in the comfort of a home kitchen is a very intimate, special and unique opportunity. Offer a menu of local favorites while sharing stories and anecdotes that captivate. Make sure to know and fulfill any licensing requirements that exist in your town.

Vehicle rental

The current automotive shortage has trickled down to rental cars, with lack of availability amid increased demand driving up prices considerably. With no sign of the shortage abating, those with a spare set of wheels can be of great value to out-of-town travelers in need of a way to get around. You can establish your own rental business, adding the vehicles of nearby friends and neighbors to your fleet, but you’ll want to first test-drive the idea through one of the popular peer-to-peer platforms already up and running, like Turo and Getaround . These apps have the ability to pre-screen applicants to weed out those with a record of past major accidents or frequent violations and also protect car owners with a $1 million insurance policy—all important elements to consider and have in place.

Souvenir shop

Travelers rarely return home without bearing gifts for others and something for themselves to remember their travels. In fact, the souvenir and novelty market is expected to grow by nearly $12 billion between 2021 and 2025. Sadly, the reality is that touristy gift shops are a dime a dozen, turning out factory-made T-shirts and trinkets and lacking the authenticity that many travelers seek. If you live in an area rich in history and culture and have experience in sales, explore the possibility of opening up a gift shop featuring and supporting local artisans. Sourcing items can be a challenge; however, Etsy is a great platform for identifying creators who live in your area and may have crafts and wares with a wow factor. Local restaurants with their own lines of bottled or packaged foods are another good area to explore.

Travel concierge service

If you are well-traveled, highly resourceful, well-connected and hyper-focused on life’s little details, you can put your knowledge and skills to good use as a personal or corporate travel concierge. A travel concierge attends to every aspect of their clients’ travels, from arranging transportation and dining reservations to accessing premium event tickets and booking tours, attractions and unique experiences. A background in tourism or hospitality can be a plus, as is niche expertise in a particular city or region. For instance, establishing yourself as an expert in all things Paris or focusing on tours for wine enthusiasts can help make you more marketable and focus your marketing efforts accordingly. The key to success is to make travel smooth, safe, memorable and authentic for your clients and elicit positive reviews through word-of-mouth and on well-trafficked travel sites and social media groups.

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10+ Best & Profitable Travel Business Ideas [2023]

By Nick Cotter Updated Feb 07, 2024

Our List of 10+ Best Travel Business Ideas:

Tour guide business, bed and breakfast, concierge service, airport transfer service, group and individual travel planning, travel photography business, cruise agency, adventure travel business, specialty travel agency, incentive travel business.

Imagine this: you're lounging on a sun-kissed beach, tropical drink in hand, all while your bank account keeps growing. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, welcome to the exciting world of travel business! As we look forward to 2023, the opportunities in this sector are not only abundant but also incredibly profitable.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur looking for your next venture, or a travel enthusiast who wants to turn passion into profit, you're in the right place. We've scoured the globe (virtually, of course!) and hand-picked 10+ of the best and most profitable travel business ideas that are set to take off in 2023.

Get ready to embark on a journey of discovery, inspiration, and potentially, financial freedom. Remember, every great journey begins with a single step. So, buckle up and let's dive into the world of travel entrepreneurship!

A tour guide business is an ideal business opportunity for those who have a deep understanding of the local area and a passion for sharing this knowledge with others. Tour guides offer customised guided tours, often focusing on the attractions, culture, and history of a particular region. This type of business offers many advantages:

Ability to work flexible hours
Opportunity to explore your community
Opportunity to meet interesting people
A chance to make money from something you love doing
Opportunities to network with other businesses in the local community.

A bed and breakfast (or B&B) is a type of accommodation with a unique, local appeal. Guests stay in the host’s house, and are typically served breakfast in the morning. It is an ideal business idea for anyone looking to become an entrepreneur in the travel industry, as it provides an intimate service for guests looking for a more homey atmosphere than what a hotel might offer.

No large-scale service required
Can be run from home or rental property
Relatively low start-up costs
Beloved by travelers, who often come back year after year
Can create additional income by adding amenities such as local tours or services

Examples of successful businesses:

The travel business industry has many successful companies that provide services to customers both domestically and internationally. Some examples of successful companies in the travel business industry are listed below.

Marriott International
TripAdvisor

A Concierge service is a company that provides customers with personal assistance for their everyday needs. This could include errand-running, grocery shopping, pet-sitting, house cleaning, restaurant reservations and other day-to-day services. It is an ideal business idea as it has much potential for growth and can be tailored to the customer’s individual needs. Some advantages of a Concierge service include:

Reasonable cost: prices can be kept at a minimum by charging high-value customers more than the average customer.
Flexible hours: With a Concierge service, you will always have time to cater to your clients as you can choose which hours you work.
Wide range of services: The range of services you offer will depend on your area and the level of expertise needed by customers.
Add value to other businesses: You can add value to other businesses such as hotels, gyms and real estate agencies by providing them with an extra layer of customer service.

More resources:

An airport transfer service is a business providing transportation services to and from airports. It can be a popular and profitable venture for those looking to enter the market. Airport transfer services offer customers convenience, reliability, and safety when travelling to or from an airport. Some of the benefits of starting an airport transfer service include:

Flexibility - You can choose your own hours and pick up clients when it fits your schedule.
Income potential - Charging clients a fee for the use of the service can bring in profitable income.
No prior investments necessary - You don't need to own a car or have any equipment to start running an airport transfer service.
Opportunities for growth - With an increasing demand for this type of service, there can be potential for growth.

Group and individual travel planning is an excellent business idea to help people plan their trips. With the right resources and expertise, this could be a great investment of time and money. Some of the benefits of travel planning include:

Help save money and time when planning a trip
Understand complex logistics involved with transportation, accommodations, activities, etc.
Assistance in navigating cultural requirements for different destinations or types of trips
Provide guidance for special needs travelers or group travelers
A convenient way to plan an entire trip from start to finish

Related business ideas:

Travel photography is a business focused on capturing memories of people’s trips and vacations. It can involve taking photographs of landscapes, monuments, cityscapes and other places of interest. It can also involve taking photos of people during their travels, such as posing in front of famous sights or experiencing the local culture. There are many reasons why travel photography would make a good business idea:

It provides a unique service to travelers
It requires minimal overhead costs
It has the potential to earn significant income
It provides an interesting and exciting job
It provides flexible working hours

A cruise agency is a business that specializes in coordinating and booking cruises for customers. It can provide services such as helping customers select their desired itinerary, accommodation, and other amenities. Cruise agencies have become increasingly popular in recent years due to the growth of the cruise industry, making it a great business idea.

Advantage of Scale: Cruise agencies can purchase bulk quantities of cruise tickets at wholesale prices, which gives them access to discounts that individual customers cannot get.
Wide Customer Base: Cruise agencies can offer customized packages to a wide variety of customers, including families, individuals, and groups.
Investment Portfolio: By offering cruises from various cruise lines, cruise agencies can increase their earnings by diversifying their investment portfolio.
Expertise: Cruise agencies have access to experienced staff with in-depth knowledge of the cruise industry which allows them to provide customers with better service.

Adventure travel business involves providing travelers with exciting and unique experiences that are usually focused on exploration and discovery. Adventure trips can include activities such as trekking, mountaineering, safaris, white-water rafting, bird watching and other outdoor activities. Such businesses can make a good business idea, as they offer the opportunity to make money while helping people to experience adventure and explore nature.

Adventure travel businesses are a rapidly growing market due to increased interest in exploring different countries and cultures.
Adventure trips can be tailored to meet the interests of each traveler, so they can be very cost effective.
Adventure travel businesses have a wide range of potential customers including backpackers, families, and corporate groups.
The industry is constantly evolving with new technology and opportunities for travelers
The business model is highly scalable; companies can quickly ramp up operations to accommodate changing market demand.

A Specialty travel agency is a business that specializes in selling customized, niche travel experiences. These specialized trips can be tailored to a variety of interests and needs - from adventure-filled backpacking trips to luxury vacations. They offer an opportunity for travelers to experience the world in a more unique and individualized way.

Custom Travel Packages - A specialty travel agency can create unique and tailored packages for any traveler.
Expert Knowledge - Specialty travel agents know the ins and outs of their area of specialization. They can provide valuable insight into the nuances of each destination.
VIP Service - Specialty travel agencies often provide exclusive access and advantages not available to regular travelers.
Cost Savings - By booking through a specialty travel agency, travelers can save money due to the expertise and network of contacts the agency has established.

Incentive travel business is the practice of providing people with rewards for reaching set goals or for promoting certain products or services. Incentive travel packages can be tailored to an individual's needs and can include a range of rewards from free tickets to international trips. Incentive travel is a great business idea because:

It encourages loyalty and performance within companies
It increases engagement and productivity
It strengthens relationships between clients and partners
It provides unique opportunities to employees and customers alike
It can be customized to fit any budget

More helpful resources about LLCs:

I'm Nick, co-founder of newfoundr.com, dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs succeed. As a small business owner with over five years of experience, I have garnered valuable knowledge and insights across a diverse range of industries. My passion for entrepreneurship drives me to share my expertise with aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to turn their business dreams into reality.

Through meticulous research and firsthand experience, I uncover the essential steps, software, tools, and costs associated with launching and maintaining a successful business. By demystifying the complexities of entrepreneurship, I provide the guidance and support needed for others to embark on their journey with confidence.

From assessing market viability and formulating business plans to selecting the right technology and navigating the financial landscape, I am dedicated to helping fellow entrepreneurs overcome challenges and unlock their full potential. As a steadfast advocate for small business success, my mission is to pave the way for a new generation of innovative and driven entrepreneurs who are ready to make their mark on the world.

30 Top Travel Startups to Watch in 2024

Top Startups to Watch

Last Updated: March 13, 2024 By TRUiC Team

The travel industry was hard hit by the pandemic, with travel startups facing sharp declines in demand at pivotal stages of their business. The companies that are thriving today are those that have quickly adapted to meet the ever-evolving needs of travelers.

From work retreats to staycations, innovation is the name of the game. These top travel startups are promoting tourism by making it more convenient, more eco-friendly, and simply more fun. There are plenty of opportunities for any entrepreneur, particularly as the public gets their second wind to get back out there and start exploring.

Recommended: Learn how to launch your own company by reading our comprehensive guide on how to start a startup .

Best Travel Startups to Follow

Every year, new startups pull to the forefront of their industry through exciting innovation and industry-disrupting business models. We’ve rounded up the top travel startups of 2024 that startup lovers, investors, and aspiring entrepreneurs should follow.

Disclaimer: With so many exciting travel companies launching and growing worldwide, we aren’t able to cover them all. Furthermore, the startups that are listed below are not officially ranked and are listed in no particular order.

Investors—Looking for Venture-Worthy Startups?

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Location: San Francisco, California
Founder(s): Francis Davidson, Lucas Pellan, Martin Picard
Founded In: 2014
Funding: Post IPO-Equity, $839.6 Million
Investors Include: Principal Global Investors, BlackRock, Moore Capital

Sonder taps into a growing demand for unique places to stay. The company has a number of luxury properties in popular destinations around the world. What makes the company even more special is that the staff has adapted services based on how people travel today. Travelers can check-in, request towels, and get recommendations on what to do — all from their phones.

2. TravelPerk

Location: Barcelona, Spain
Founder(s): Avi Meir, Javier Suarez, and Ron Levin
Founded In: 2015
Funding: Series D, $530.3 Million
Investors Include: SoftBank Vision Fund, Greyhound Capital, General Catalyst

TravelPerk is a travel platform that helps business travelers manage their travel and expenses as well as book business trips with ease. The platform suits businesses of all sizes and streamlines the process of finding, booking, and planning business travel.

Location: Singapore
Founder(s): Ahmet Bahadir Ozdemir
Founded In: 2019
Funding: Series A, $67.3 Million
Investors Include: Plug and Play , GO Ventures, Rakuten Capital

Airalo is providing a more flexible phone alternative no matter what country you’re in. Their eSIM store is the first of its kind, offering affordable, local rates for eSIM compatible phones, tablets, or PC computers. Customers never have to worry about carrying several SIM cards, changing their phone number, or losing communication capabilities with Airalo eSIM cards.

4. Tripsider

Founder(s): Olga Bortnikova, Ivan Bortnikov
Founded In: 2018
Funding: Seed, $1 Million
Investors Include: Liqvest, Mission Gate, Starta

Next on our list of top travel startups is Tripsider , an app that matches people with the right trip based on everything from their interests to their budget. The company compares the algorithm to that of a dating app, taking into account values, past experiences, and goals to match people with a travel expert via text or phone call. Experts have resources to help travelers officially confirm their bookings, removing one more thing for vacationers to worry about.

5. BabyQuip

Location: Santa Fe, New Mexico
Founder(s): Fran Maier
Founded In: 2016
Funding: Seed, $10.7 Million
Investors Include: Moai Capital, How Women Invest, SBI Investment

BabyQuip is a travel startup with a new take on the gig economy – providing a platform for baby gear rentals for traveling families. BabyQuip delivers all the necessary gear to wherever a family needs it – the airport, a hotel, or even the grandparents’ house. The company will tailor the equipment to each client’s needs, whether it’s a full-size crib, car seat, stroller, or anything else.

6. The Hotels Network

Founder(s): Juanjo Rodriguez, Laura Martinez Celada, Marc Rollan Serrano
Funding: Series B, $15.2 million
Investors Include: Seaya Ventures, Elaia, 4Founders Capital, NFX

The Hotels Network is a platform that serves as a method of growth for hotels using technology to attract and convert online visitors to paying customers by creating a unique, personalized, and predictive user experience. Hotels can use the platform to compare reviews, pricing, analytics in order to create more impactful marketing campaigns.

Location: London, United Kingdom
Founder(s): Steve Domin, Tom Bates, Vincent Pastor
Founded In: 2017
Funding: Series B, $56.2 Million
Investors Include: Index Ventures , Benchmark , Kima Ventures, Blossom Capital, et al.

Duffel is an online platform for travelers to find, book, and manage flights from a myriad of airlines. Working in tandem with airlines to provide a better customer experience, Duffel provides travelers with real-time pricing and availability to make booking a trip easier than ever.

Location: Madrid, Spain
Founder(s): Dennis Vilovic, Leonard Cremer
Funding: Series B, $11 Million
Investors Include: All Iron Ventures, Durable Capital Partners, Madrona Venture Group

Troop is a travel technology company that utilizes data to help corporations plan in-person meetings. Leveraging the power of science and technology, Troop makes planning in-person meetings for their Fortune 500 companies sustainable, safe, and secure.

9. roadsurfer

Location: Munich, Germany
Founder(s): Christoph Niemann, Markus Dickhardt, Susanne Dickhardt
Funding: Series Unknown, $28.9 Million
Investors Include : Lawrence Leuschner, Heartcore Capital, 10x Group, et al.

roadsurfer rents RV campers to outdoor lovers in Europe and America. The company stands for freedom and offers a number of perks to its customers, including unlimited mileage, a free second driver, road assistance, and flexible rebooking options. For anyone who dreams of getting away from it all and experiencing van life for a few months, this company is connecting people to the vehicles they need to hit the road.

10. Pickyourtrail

Location: Chennai, India
Founder(s): Hari Ganapathy, Srinath Shankar
Funding: Venture, $3 Million
Investors Include: Kumar Vembu, Vinay Ahuja, Girish Mathrubootham, Kunal Shah

Pickyourtrail is India’s largest online holiday booking platform for DIY travelers. People come here to customize their vacations by building unique itineraries from the ground up. The platform takes into account people’s interests, timelines, and budgets before crafting travel that will mesh with the individual’s tastes. The company also works with a number of tourism boards in popular locations, such as Iceland, Japan, and New Zealand, to create more streamlined experiences for all customers.

Founder(s): Johannes Siebers, Michael Siebers, Rasmus Porsgaard
Funding: Series E, $199.8 Million
Investors Include: Venture Stars, Prime Ventures, EQT Ventures, et al.

Holidu is a website where vacationers can book accommodations at the lowest price. It was started by the founders after trying to find a place to stay in Portugal, only to find that many of the same properties were listed on different sites at different prices. Their platform makes it possible to search and book rental properties without having to worry if there was a better deal out there.

12. Whimstay

Founder(s): Alexander Alioto, Ben Jamshahi, Kamesh Jasani, Noel Russell
Funding: Seed, $10 Million
Investors Include: Talent Resource Ventures

Whimstay is designed for last-minute travelers who want great deals. The app and website helps property owners and hosts match their unsold nights with travelers, so everyone can benefit from the search engine. The company is built on the premise that many of our favorite travel moments are entirely unplanned, and the platform boasts up to 60% savings off the original costs of rental properties.

13. Scenset

Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Founder(s): Eli Bressert, Tamar van de Paal
Funding: Seed, $5 Million
Investors Include: Cavalry Ventures, Project A Ventures

Next on our list of the best travel companies is Scenset . Most people take just under 3 weeks to book a trip, and while some people may love piecing it all together, most just want to just get it over with. Scenset personalizes your vacations with end-to-end planning with the help of travel curators. The team is there so travelers don’t have to skip from site to site, and these experts often deliver experiences that travelers would never have without their interference.

14. Boom Supersonic

Location: Englewood, Colorado
Founder(s): Blake Scholl, Joe Wilding, Joshua Krall
Funding: Series Unknown, $700 Million
Investors Include: Momentum Ventures, Prime Movers Lab, Caruso Ventures

Boom Supersonic is attempting to cut down on travel time by as much as half with supersonic jets. Travelers have the option of going from Tokyo to Seattle in as little as 4.5 hours (compared to 8.5 hours in a standard passenger plane). The company offers more than 500 transoceanic routes, allowing more people to test their boundaries and explore the world.

Location: Paris, France
Founder(s): Aziza Chaouachi, Mario Moinet, Yassine Ben Romdhane
Funding: Convertible Note, $22 Million
Investors Include: Prime Ventures

Leavy allows people to live anywhere they’d like, if only for 24 hours or less. Though it was founded before the pandemic, the company is tapping into the idea of travel and affordability. The platform pairs customers with people willing to share their homes and pays cash to anyone who will open the door. While accommodation amenities vary, the barebones feature of Leavy is opening the door to people who might not have been able to afford travel otherwise.

Location: Bucharest, Romania
Founder(s): Alexandru Govoreanu
Funding: Seed, $1.8 Million
Investors Include: Early Game Ventures, Sparking Capital

Questo is a gaming app for travelers designed to help them explore cities and towns in an unusual way. So if an individual in London wanted to hunt down Jack the Ripper, they’re whisked away on an exciting quest, gathering clues in real time while learning about history at the same time. Games range depending on destination, so you can uncover the Midici conspiracy in Florence or discover the ghosts of Glasgow.

Location: Berlin, Germany
Founder(s): Naren Shaam
Founded In: 2013
Funding: Series E, $476 Million
Investors Include: Lazard Asset Management, Stack Capital, Goldman Sachs Asset Management, et al.

Omio is a transportation app that gives travelers an easy way to travel long distances. It’s not designed for getting around a city but rather suggests nearby airports and train routes that would make it possible to cover serious ground at the drop of a hat. It helps travelers visualize the best routes to take based on everything from speed to price. Travelers can also access tickets on their phones for trains and planes, adding an extra layer of convenience.

18. Surf Air Mobility

Location: Hawthorne, California
Founder(s): Cory Cozzens, David Eyerly, Liam Fayed, Reed Farnsworth, Scott Craig Porter, Sudhin Shahani, Wade Eyerly
Founded In: 2012
Funding: Debt Financing, $563.7 Million
Investors Include: IVP, Troy Capital, Sway Ventures, et al.

Surf Air Mobility is an environmentally friendly company that’s introducing the world to zero-emission flying with the help of electric vehicles. With more than 910 million tons of carbon on the line, the company is starting with existing aircraft. The staff replaces the standard engine with an electric version as a means to decarbonize the travel industry.

19. SafetyWing

Location: Silicon Valley (Palo Alto, California)
Founder(s): Hans Nyvold Kjellby, Lona Alia, Sarah Beyahte Sandnes, Sondre Rasch
Funding: Series B, $47.1 Million
Investors Include: Creandum, Alma Mundi Ventures, Kinnevik, et al.

SafetyWing describes its products as insurance for nomads, by nomads. The company makes it possible for people outside their home country to get the medical help they need, including treatments needed for COVID-19, should they become ill or injured while abroad. People can even purchase insurance while they’re in a foreign country.

20. Wanderlog

Founder(s): Harry Yu, Peter Xu
Funding: Seed, $1.7 Million
Investors Include: Y Combinator , Abstract Ventures, General Catalyst

Wanderlog is a free travel app that makes it possible for travelers to build and map their vacations. Designed for trips of all kinds, including the open road, it’s a way for people to keep all of their details organized so they know where they are, what they’re doing, and where they’re going at all times. Drive times, reviews, and reservations can all be tracked in one handy place, making it less likely that something will go wrong along the way.

Founder(s): Oskar Bruening, Ruzwana Bashir
Funding: Series C, $119.9 Million
Investors Include : Eric Schmidt, 12 BF Global Ventures, Cathay Innovation, et al.

Peek helps tourism businesses book more people by offering handy software to take payments, market their services, and manage reviews. So far, the company has powered more than $1 billion in experiences (e.g., paddleboards, pottery classes, rafting, etc.). Their customers love the easy-to-use platform that makes it possible to both generate and track business.

Location: New York, New York
Founder(s): Anthony Menna, Greg Ramey, Mike Petrakis
Funding: Series A, $17 Million
Investors Include: Pritzker Group Venture Capital, Corazon Capital, Alumni Ventures

Batch is designed specifically for bachelor or bachelorette parties. It helps the core planner track the details of the trip, so everyone can have a smooth experience. Trying to coordinate anything on a group trip like this can be an exercise in futility, but the app accounts for any number of scenarios, making it possible for people to have more fun before, during, and after the trip.

23. Sēkr

Location: San Diego, California
Founder(s): Breanne Acio, Jessica Shisler
Founded In: 2020
Funding: Seed, $3.1 million
Investors Include: Crescent Ridge Partners Ventures, Storyteller Overland, Backstage Capital, et al

Sēkr is a mobile platform for outdoor lovers, making it easier, safer, and more communal to plan a trip and dig into the Great Outdoors. The company has more than 50,000 campsites included in its platform, making it the nation’s largest database of free campsites and local events. People can use it to learn more about what they can really expect at each site, and to connect to virtual friends with similar interests.

24. Point.me

Founder(s): Adam Morvitz, Tiffany Funk
Funding: Series A, $12 Million
Investors Include: Thayer Ventures, RiverPark Ventures, Plug and Play

Next up on our list of top travel startups is Point.me . With so many different types of airline miles and points out there, it can be difficult for travelers to keep track of all their rewards. As a result, they often end up losing out on their benefits, or cashing them in for a fraction of what they’re worth. Point.me scours the internet to find the absolute best deals for travelers who want to get the most from each and every point.

25. AvantStay

Location: Los Angeles, California
Founder(s): Reuben Doetsch, Sean Breuner
Funding: Private Equity, $686 Million
Investors Include: Saluda Grade, Bullpen Capital, Capital One Ventures

AvantStay is a booking platform with unique properties that can be used for personal or commercial use alike. These are luxury rentals that feature unique amenities, including stunning interior design for groups. Excellent for family and company retreats or just a fun weekend trip between friends, AvantStay makes it possible for travelers to hammer down accommodation details and organize additional excursions as well (e.g., spa treatments, wine tastings, etc.).

26. Spotnana

Founder(s): Sarosh Waghmar, Shikhar Agarwal
Funding: Series B, $116 Million
Investors Include: ICONIQ Growth, Durable Capital Partners, Blank Ventures

Spotnana designs software to connect partners, suppliers, and providers, all in service of improving the booking experience for travelers. The idea is to unbundle travel, making it possible for travelers in the future to get anything they need without the hassle. The core values are freedom and trust, reintroducing choice to the traveler so they feel comfortable making any and all of their arrangements online.

27. Life House

Founder(s): Rami Zeidan, Yury Yakubchyk
Funding: Series C, $230 Million
Investors Include: Tiger Global Management, Sound Ventures, Global Founders Capital

Life House is a vertically integrated operating system built for boutique hotels. It specifically supports three functions: hotel technology for operators, hotel management for owners, and hotel branding and positioning. With Life House's powerful software, boutique hotels gain a suite of tools that can help streamline processes and increase their profitability.

28. Kindred

Founder(s): Tasneem Amina, Justine Palefsky
Founded In: 2021
Funding: Series A, $22.8 Million
Investors Include: Andreessen Horowitz, New Enterprise Associates, Bessemer Venture Partners

Kindred is a home-swap platform that connects travelers with other members to trade spaces or travel with credits they can earn by using the platform. With Kindred, hosts receive complimentary hosting essentials like towels, sheets, and lockboxes as well as free professional cleaning before and after guest stays.

29. Hotelverse

Location: Mallorca, Spain
Founder(s): Rafael Bover, Fermin Carmona
Funding: Seed, $3.92 Million
Investors Include: Sabadell Venture Capital, Plug and Play

Hotelverse leverages technology to create an innovative booking experience for travelers. On the platform, users can explore hotel facilities, customize their room, do a flyover of their hotel, and book a room — all virtually using a realistic, 3D model.

Location: Vancouver, Canada
Founder(s): Connor J. Wilson
Founded In: 2020
Funding: Angel Investment, CA$1.1 Million

Pilot is a travel planning platform powered by artificial intelligence (AI). Using its free app, travelers can plan and collaborate with friends on trips by creating itineraries, planning routes, importing travel documents, and obtaining travel visas — all on one platform. Plus, the app works both online and offline thereby ensuring travelers can access important travel information at any time.

Recommended: Check out our full list of the top startups to watch in 2024 !

What are travel startups?

Travel startups today are largely companies that lean on innovation to get noticed in a saturated landscape. Because we’re more reliant than ever on our devices, many of the companies on this list have tech that will drive tourism across the globe.

Whether by reducing carbon emissions, offering health insurance by phone, or making it easier to split costs, travel startups are tackling the small and big issues that stop travelers from fully committing to a trip.

What does the future of the travel industry look like?

The future of the tourism industry will be controlled by everything from global emissions to public health. However, based on the most popular startups today, one of the major trends is based on how people book their travel and how the details are managed. Travel is likely to become more customizable, more affordable, and less damaging to the environment.

What are some travel startup ideas?

Travel startup ideas are often born from personal experiences that people have with their own bookings. So maybe you have a difficult time scheduling a trip on a regular weekend. This leads to an idea that helps vacationers travel without having to take vacation time from work.

Or maybe you take your inspiration from global headlines. If gas prices rise drastically in your area, you can start an app that helps people take a staycation they’ll never forget.

How do you start a travel startup?

Beginning a travel startup will mean sketching out a business model with details about how you’ll monetize your idea and how much capital you’ll need to get started. You’ll need to know what kind of staff you’ll need, how much you can pay them, and what kind of collaboration will be needed to hit your milestones. From there, you’ll likely need to approach investors and secure funding.

About the Author

The TRUiC Team

TRUiC’s team of researchers, writers, and editors dedicate hours to ensure startupsavant.com’s articles are actionable and accessible for both startup founders and startup enthusiasts. From launching a startup to growing your venture, you can trust that our information is an up-to-date and reliable source.

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11 Business Ideas for Travel Lovers

Do you want to explore the world and be your own boss? Starting your own business doesn’t mean you have to stay in one place. Many businesses in the digital age don’t require a brick-and-mortar shop, and some businesses will even take you to your dream destinations.

Running a business isn’t for the faint of heart, however. If you’re determined to see the world while owning a business, check out these 11 business ideas for people who love to travel.

Business ideas for travel lovers

1. traveling personal assistant.

graphic of a two people in an airport terminal

Some people, such as politicians and celebrities, require a personal assistant. Personal assistants usually travel with their employer whether they are going on tour, have speaking events or conduct business in other locations.

If organization, time management and problem-solving are your top skills, create your own agency. Personal assistants typically arrange travel and accommodations, manage schedules, run errands and coordinate with other staff members.

2. Travel blogger

If you love writing and photography, a travel blog could be your ticket to several dream destinations. Bloggers often create helpful guides, explore new cities, take interesting photos, and provide recommendations and tips. Before you take the plunge, however, understand that blogging can be tough and time-consuming. It often takes a couple of years before you make money blogging, but when you do, you’re essentially getting paid to travel the world and write about it.

If writing isn’t your expertise and you’re better with a camera, try being a travel vlogger. With YouTube, vlogging is a lucrative business. Take your business on the road and create videos about traveling the world and visiting the best tourist spots.

3. Social media influencer

If you have a large online following, you can make a steady income through sponsored posts and pictures. Many brands use influencers to advertise their products and encourage followers to buy goods and services.

Some brands will even pay for social media influencers to attend their events or stay at their resorts in exchange for documenting their experience on their social media accounts.

4. Travel agency

graphic of a travel agent using a desktop computer

People want honest and helpful advice. Travel agents help people plan vacations and trips across the globe. They often have specialties for different countries or niches. If there is a country or city you love to visit, you can make recommendations to others who want to see more of the world.

You can start your own home-based travel agency through either a franchise or non-franchise agency depending on your budget and accreditation. You may need to look into obtaining a certification, and you may need to pay monthly fees if you partner with a host agency.

5. Photographer

Photography is a great skill to have if you want to travel. If you start a photography business, you could travel the world and capture its beauty with your camera. You could sell these photos to publications or as art. You could also become skilled at a specific type of photography, such as candid portraits, family photography or wedding photography. People need a skilled photographer at their destination wedding, and you could be just the person for the job.

6. Public speaker

Do you have expertise in your field and great communication skills? If so, you could become a public speaker. Speakers often travel across the country or even the world to spread their message and inspire millions. These individuals also have other streams of income, such as being a social media influencer, selling books or creating a blog about their expertise.

7. Traveling event planner

Event planners organize corporate and professional events and meetings. They typically arrange catering, location selection, travel accommodations and more. If you have networking, organizational and time-management skills, you could travel the world as an event planner. Event planning worldwide could open up even more travel opportunities and larger-scale events in the long term.

8. Translator

graphic of a person sitting at a desk using a laptop with conversation bubbles above them

If you’re fluent in multiple languages, creating a translation business could be a great way to see the world. Translators are needed in almost every industry. They assist international businesses, globe-trotting executives and high-profile individuals by translating documents, books, emails, conversations and more. If you’re not sure where to start, offer to translate menus for restaurants in your area or promotional materials for small businesses.

9. Wedding planner

The job of a wedding planner is to create a stress-free wedding day. Wedding planners must be the calm in the middle of the storm and have a unique ability to soothe nerves when everything doesn’t go as planned.

While a lot of wedding planners have expertise and a network in a specific town or location, many couples opt for a destination wedding. These weddings can typically be even more stressful, because you must figure out how to get guests from point A to point B. You also must make accommodations over the phone rather than in person. However, this is a great opportunity to travel to beautiful places across the globe.

10. Graphic designer

As our world becomes more digital, the demand for website developers and graphic designers is growing. With online tutorials and programs — including Photoshop, WordPress and Illustrator — it’s easier than ever to create your own graphic design business.

Market yourself as a freelance graphic designer, and assist others in creating their own branding, landing pages and promotions — a job you can do from any location. A knowledge of coding (HTML, PHP and CSS) further adds to your expertise so you can help companies develop business websites as well as design them.

11. House sitter

Many people feel better about leaving for vacation with someone staying at their house to take care of their home and pets. In exchange for your services as a house sitter (feeding and walking pets, gathering mail and tending to housework), some people may pay you to stay at their homes while they travel abroad or stay at one of their multiple homes. There are websites and services to get your name out there. You could also create your own house sitter agency, marketing yourself as trustworthy and reputable.

As fun as the above travel-lover jobs might sound, traveling can bring stress due to delayed flights, high costs and other unexpected events. Our guide to avoiding stress during business travel can help you navigate almost any challenge you face.

What to know before starting your business

There are some key tips you should know before attempting to start your own business. These are true for both travel-heavy businesses and those that would mostly keep you at home.

It takes more than just passion.

Although starting your own business allows you to do something you love, that’s only a small part of the endeavor. Running your own company involves a lot of responsibilities, many of which won’t be as enjoyable as creating your product or providing your service. However, by creating a business plan , interacting with customers and marketing your company, you’ll have a greater chance of success.

Activity and growth aren’t the same.

Just because your company is changing doesn’t necessarily mean you have a growing business . Hiring new employees, adding features to your products and expanding your physical space can help you grow. But unless these steps lead to a notable increase in income, you’ve expanded only your operations; in this situation, new strategies will be necessary for true growth.

Your numbers are vital.

Data on how much your business is earning and spending are key to your success. Without working benchmarks for how well your business is performing, you might not know how to respond to potential problems until it’s too late.

You need the right team.

Unless you can run your business entirely by yourself, you’ll need a good team behind you. You shouldn’t pick just anyone to help you run your company; hiring the wrong employee can cost more money in the long run. Anyone you hire should have similar career goals to your own and dedicate their working hours to your success.

Make time for fun.

You should always leave room for fun for both yourself and your employees. While getting a business off the ground does require a lot of dedication and effort, it shouldn’t take up your entire life. To perform their best work, most people need time to recharge, and they can’t do that while on the clock. Be mindful of a healthy work-life balance so you and your employees are ready for the next day.

Looking for more ways to start a business? Check out these ideas from our partners at CO–by U.S. Chamber of Commerce , or dig into these other great business ideas .

Your own business offers challenges and rewards

Whether you’re starting a business to travel or gain control over your future career, the process isn’t easy. There are plenty of obstacles that can pop up; getting a company off the ground is one of the toughest things you can do. But that makes pulling it off all the more rewarding, and the sooner you get started, the more quickly you can reap the benefits.

Isaiah Atkins and Max Freedman contributed to the writing and research in this article.

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20 Best Travel Business ideas You Can Start

Travel is a great way to get away from it all and relax. So many countries around the world benefit from regular tourism, in terms of their economy, keeping history alive, and sharing traditions with newcomers. There are many unique ways to explore the world, that there is a huge market for travel business.

There are plenty of ways to start a travel business. For example, you can open a bed and breakfast or rent out a room in your home. Or you can become a tour guide or cruise line captain. There are also opportunities to earn extra income through affiliate marketing.

Because the travel industry encompasses a lot of different areas, there are so many ways that you can set up a business which fits in with your skill set and experience. Travel businesses include hotels, tours, cruises, airlines, car rentals, and complete vacation packages.

The great thing about setting up your own business is that you can tap into your own background knowledge and stick to areas of interest for you. This could be entertainment, accommodation, or even social media representation.

If you’re thinking about starting a travel business, here are 20 travel business ideas to inspire you as well as show you how many business opportunities there really are. If you want to start a travel business, you’ll need to consider several things before launching your venture. That is why this guide aims to encompass all the small details as well as bigger picture opportunities for your travel business.

The Travel Industry

Firstly, it is worth noting that the travel industry is arguably the largest industry in the world. This is because there are new trends or changes in tourist behavior which shake things up, and keep businesses on their toes. There are so many types of vacations, that it’s no wonder why the travel industry are kept on their toes every year. Tourists want something new and exciting, which is why this industry continues to blossom.

The Six Segments of the Travel Industry

Because there is so much variation within the industry, there are six main segments which business have been known to base their concept off. It could be worth using these for inspiration to see how you can take your existing experience and apply it to a travel business.

The travel industry can be divided into tourist boards, travel services, accommodation, conferences and events, attractions and tourism services. Depending on the type of lifestyle you lead and how much travel you want to do yourself, it could be worth taking a closer look into the types of travel businesses within these segments, that you could set up.

Some of the most popular areas that travel businesses function in are providing a particular service to tourists and travelers like hotels or entertainment. On the other hand, you could set up a global enterprise, which allows you to spend more time traveling.

These businesses typically take a little more work to set up and begin making profits, but it can be highly rewarding to work towards this lifestyle. Not only that, but it will be easier to reach a higher number of people who are interested in what your business has to offer.

20 Best Travel Business ideas

1. Travel Blogger

One of the most popular businesses involved becoming a travel blogger. Because this is a slightly less traditional path to take, the steps are a little less clear-cut when it comes to generating a profit and setting up a business as a travel blogger.

However, it is recommended that you begin by exploring your local area and places that you have always wanted to travel to, and recording your experience online. Most people enjoy writing their own blogs about how they found a certain destination or experience, and it can be a great way to share your thoughts with like-minded people.

Most people set up travel blogs online where they can use it like a journal when they are visiting somewhere new, whereas others will make small notes and write up their experience once they return home. It could be a great way to spend more time traveling if that is a goal of yours.

2. Occasion/Travel Photographer

Wedding photographers earn a great deal of money for a single day, but it is hard work. If you have experience capturing weddings or taking portraits for someone, you could set up a business for travel photography or international weddings.

This could go a long way for a travel business, especially if you are offering occasion package deals such as a reduced price for multiple days consecutively. One of the most important things that is definitely worth investing in is high quality cameras and the right equipment.

Make sure you have some basic skills and experience before setting up this type of business, because there is a reason why wedding photography is such an expensive industry. You could use travel photographs that you have taken to accompany your blog posts, submit them online, or build your own social media presence. This can help you build a professional profile for yourself as a respected travel photography business.

3. Translator

For those who are more experienced with a particular language or multiple different languages, it could be worth setting up a business as a translator. Depending on your level of expertise and the versatility of the languages that you are able to translate, you can make a business that works for you.

You could advertise yourself on an international scale, or focus on a particular area where you think your skills would be best used. Translators are always in high demand, and it is worth setting up a business for yourself if this is something that you are passionate about.

Of course, the main drawback is that you will need to be able to speak at least two languages sufficiently in order to earn an income as a translator. This can be a little challenging if you are less familiar with new languages, so it isn’t always the best option for everyone.

4. Independent Travel Agency

It may seem a little unusual considering the downfall of many large travel companies, but there will always be a market for travel agencies. For this reason, it could be exciting to start your own enterprise and begin offering clients and tourists a series of vacation packages.

It could be worth comparing some best rated deals and other companies from the area to figure out estimated prices and different types of accommodations, as well as flights. Consider what kind of target audience you want to reach, and design package deals that you think are the most suitable.

For example, if you want to offer child-friendly vacations to families, or more affordable options with a little more flexibility. Other options include creating more local eco-friendly travel options. This is a great travel business idea for those who are more experienced with organizing large events and co-ordinating different services at the same time.

You could set up a small office space or storefront where people can stop by and ask for advice. Alternatively, you could benefit from the online world and work remotely from wherever you are in the world.

5. Travel Vlogger

While most people document their traveling experiences using written blogs, video-based media is becoming more popular. Some people prefer to film themselves using small cameras when they are traveling. This can create a more immersive experience for followers and their audience. The concept of video-based blogs is becoming more popular, and it can allow people to make a living in this way if it is taken seriously.

Becoming a travel vlogger typically goes hand-in-hand with social media. This is because it is usually the best way to reach your target audience, and the type of individuals that will watch your videos. It is a great way to build your online presence and boost your business as a travel vlogger.

6. Vacation Planner

Another travel business idea that could work with your skill set is to become a vacation planner. This is ideal for someone who wants to share their knowledge about a particular area and encourage people to explore unique destinations.

This can be a little challenging to start up if you have less experience traveling to certain areas, but it is nothing that the internet can’t help with. Consider setting up your own business as a vacation planner if you are a highly organized individual who likes to fill someone’s schedule.

Remember that there are many things that need to be considered when planning somebody else’s vacation. This includes whether they want to be more active or spend more time relaxing, and what type of food or hobbies they enjoy the most.

It is worth making sure that you have a great system in place for organizing certain activities, events, and scheduling appointments. This is highly needed when it comes to working as a vacation planner, as somebody else’s enjoyment is your responsibility.

7. Bike Tour Services

If you have more experience with bikes and renting or riding bikes on different terrains, then you could set up a bike tour service in a particular area where tourists spend more time. It could be beneficial to rent a storefront or a stand for people to visit and see what type of tours you are providing.

Take a closer look at the local attractions and begin creating bike routes which are suitable for beginners. You could then create slightly longer or shorter routes, with more challenging options. It could also be useful to set up a rental service for your bikes, if people want to explore an area at their own pace.

Because of this, it is useful that you have at least five bicycles which are good for beginners on hand at any time. They should be stable and comfortable, in order to encourage people to get the most out of their experience. You will also need to think about the price range that is realistic for bike tour services, and consider offering group package deals for a particular day or size of group.

It is also worth finding a reliable weather prediction app so that you can cancel or avoid booking certain days when heavy rainfall is expected. In addition, you should try to provide child seats which can be attached to the back of a bike when needed. Alternatively, customers can be shown to a daycare center or local childcare service if necessary.

8. Travel Consultant

This is slightly different to a vacation planner and a travel agent, as travel consultants are usually in charge of more complex issues. They need to figure out solutions to unique situations and make sure that everything goes according to plan.

You could become a travel consultant if you want to make sure that people have the best experience possible when they are travelling or on vacation. Complex issues that are normally handled by a travel consultant include ironing out logistical concerns with business trips, or new parents who are traveling to a foreign country for adoption purposes.

Because the role of a travel consultant is naturally varied and relatively complex, you will be more immersed in the culture and local environment than other businesses, which would require you to cater for tourists a little more. Working as a travel consultant could be an ideal way to see the world and travel to more unique places.

Because the work is largely international, you could set up your own business specializing in complex situations and more challenging situations to put yourself and your services as a travel consultant on the map for potential clients.

9. Open Your Own Bed And Breakfast

This is a growing market, and there are more people who are turning their homes, spare buildings on their property, or other locations into bed and breakfasts. It can provide a home away from home for tourists, and does not need a great deal of work on your part.

There are many services which can help you get set up and on the market for visitors, and it is worth considering this as a travel business idea. Even if you are less familiar with this concept, there are plenty of help guides with information about opening your own bed and breakfast.

You can use this as a way to generate more income on a regular basis, or to save up for your next vacation. If travel is your passion, and you want to spend more time exploring new places, you could rent out your home while you are away.

Make sure that your pets, plants, and other necessities are accounted for, and that your personal possessions are safely locked away. If you are thinking about opening your own bed and breakfast, it is important that you are offering regular rates for rooms.

Make sure that guests will have adequate access to bathrooms, and that the breakfast services are also of a high standard. Bed and breakfasts are a lot more personal than hotels, so guests often want this type of service and interaction.

10. Create A Travel App

If your area of expertise lies with developing apps, coding, and programming software, then you could set up a travel business by creating an app. You can create an app to connect travelers with others in the area, or provide useful suggestions for activities and popular places of interest.

Other travel app ideas include translation software, suggestions for common phrases in the native language of a country you are visiting, or showing places to eat or stay overnight that are not fully booked.

The great thing about travel apps is that you do not have to be in a particular country or location to do this. This means that you can create your own travel app from the comfort of your own home, as long as you have a stable internet connection and access to the necessary databases.

You could also connect with other companies when you are setting up your travel app, like websites that find the best deal for hotels, or airline companies. This allows you to generate more popularity and increase the general market for your business.

11. Rent Out Your Property For Vacations

If you have empty rooms in your home, or even entire buildings that aren’t used as frequently, then you could rent out your property for vacations. If you schedule it right, you could host somebody while you are out of town. This can get you a little more money while making sure that your home is occupied at all times.

Not only can this deter unwanted guests, but it allows you to share the joys and peace that your home provides with others. Like the bed and breakfast business, it is important that you lock all of your valuable and personal belongings away somewhere safe, or remove them beforehand.

Of course, you will need to consider pets and plants, which should be moved elsewhere if possible before you leave for your vacation. However, this can be a great way to earn extra cash when you are on vacation.

12. Language Speaker

Being able to speak a country’s language well is a highly valuable skill. Many people make the most out of this by creating their own business offering lessons to children, translation services, and representing someone who does not speak the language.

This is a great way of traveling more while earning a living, because you can act as a guide for people and negotiate certain contracts with local vendors if you are able to generate tourism. Set your travel business around your particular language skills, and consider learning more about the particular uses as well as local colloquialisms which are used in certain areas.

Improving your knowledge of the language and subtle differences that exist between certain regions could also help you to teach tourists about the cultures. This can be a useful way to prevent people from disrespecting certain traditions and avoiding any potential preconceived notions.

13. Glamping Service

This is something that is usually done on a plot of land that you own or rent, and it is much easier to do this locally to you. You can attract tourists to your state by setting up a glamping business. Glamping is known as “glamorous camping”, because it provides a little more luxury than what is typically offered by regular camping.

The accommodation can be as simplistic as a weatherproof hut, a large tent, or even a tree-house. Full beds are normally provided, and guests are typically left to their own devices once they are settled. Glamping sites are normally seen as more high-end camping grounds, with more facilities than you would expect.

14. Pet Sitting Business

Another way that you could start a travel business is to promote pet sitting services. You could offer to take care of people’s pets while they are traveling, or set up a kennel business. This can be a safe place for dogs, cats, and other beloved household pets to stay and play with other animals while their owners are traveling.

While this does not directly involve traveling, you could always use a pet sitting business to save up for trips and build a reputation as a respected business for potential investors in the future.

15. Create An Adventure Club

This is a great option for more adventurous individuals who want to share their enthusiasm and stay active. Because it is a little more focused, it is important to do some market research ahead of time to see if there would be a demand for it. You could choose to focus on climbing walls, long hikes, kayaking, or other high energy sports.

Most adventure clubs are suitable for kids and adults, and it is worth being flexible to suit a range of potential customers. This could make your business a great tourist destination, or allow you to travel around and offer this experience internationally.

If you know someone or a group of people who consider themselves more physically active and enthusiastic about outdoor adventure, you could hire them to work for your business. This allows you to spend more time promoting your brand and expanding your team where necessary.

16. House Sitting Services

You can help people have more peace of mind by taking care of their pets, homes, and plants. Keep things moving while they are traveling and make sure that everything is being taken care of in their homes. This is an ideal solution for people who live in areas of high crime rates, or who are planning a long trip away.

You could keep on top of the laundry, vacuum, offer pet walking, or just keep someone’s home occupied while they are away. Setting up a business as a house sitter is surprisingly easy. The first step is to build your reputation and gain a customer base in the area that you live.

Once you have a reputation, it is worth taking a closer look at the different ways of advertising your business. Think about the type of people you are trying to attract, and how they will be able to reach you when needed. This can be done using social media, email, or over the phone.

It is important that you have a reliable method of scheduling your time before booking people in for house sitting services. This can prevent any possible overlap that can occur when you are setting up a business that has a lot of moving parts at once.

17. Boutique Hotel

Some people are willing to pay extra for a luxurious experience, and it is worth using this to your advantage. Interestingly, boutique hotels are actually considered some of the most profitable in the tourism industry. This is because there is a great deal of work which is needed to ensure that guests receive the best possible experience.

From chefs using only the highest quality ingredients, to sleeping on the most luxurious material, boutique hotels could be great investment opportunities for travel businesses if you have the initial funds necessary.

18. Tour Guide Services

For those who have more knowledge about a particular area, region, or country, you could start a business as a tour guide. Showing people around places and teaching them about certain traditions or ceremonies that took place there is a highly rewarding experience.

Not only that, but it allows people to appreciate the culture of a country without disrespecting anything unknowingly. You do not need to speak the language in order to be a tour guide, but it helps if you learn some basic phrases ahead of time.

Additionally, you could focus your tours on less well-known areas and attractions that are often overlooked by tourists. Take the time to think about how you can offer a unique experience, and learn about the less popular history of a place. Off-the-beaten-path tours are interesting because they tell stories of populations that are long forgotten, and bring these traditions to life.

19. Traveling Event Organizer

Weddings, parties, work events, and other ceremonies are enjoyed around the world. You could set up a business as a traveling event organizer if you are confident managing multiple teams of workers at the same time.

It is a juggling act to keep everything running smoothly and organized, which is why there is such a high demand for traveling event organizers globally. Working as a traveling event organizer is just as easy to do within the local area as it is internationally, which is why you could easily earn a living while traveling.

Think about what type of experience you want to provide clients with, and the type of potential target audience you are targeting. This could be larger scale events with hundreds of guests or more intimate gatherings, organizing business retreats, or weddings specifically.

20. Ecotourism

So many people are becoming more concerned about their carbon footprint, and the impact their actions have on the environment. Because of this, there are considerably more travel businesses that focus on ecotourism coming into the light.

These services show how we can give back to the natural world, and can even teach us ways of protecting the environment. Because the emphasis is on protecting the natural environment, most ecotourism businesses will show you how to explore your local area with a fresh perspective.

Alternative methods of transportation which are kinder to the planet are also encouraged for those who want to travel a little further. These include trains, public transport, and vehicle sharing services. Teaching people about local wildlife and the importance of giving back to the natural world is incredibly rewarding.

Many ecotourism business owners enjoy showing people how our actions have consequences for the natural environment. It is a great way to encourage people to create more sustainable habits and make more responsible choices in the future.

Like we’ve mentioned before, there are so many areas that you can choose to specialize in when it comes to creating your own travel business. This is because the travel industry is an umbrella term which refers to tourist boards, accommodation, transportation, local attractions, and many more aspects.

Because there is such a wide variety of routes you can decide to go down, it is worth finding a specific market that allows you to use your background knowledge and existing skills. For example, if you are fluent in a particular language, then you could offer your services as a translator or local tourist guide.

People who are more physically active and enthusiastic about spending time outdoors could create a business based on an adventure club, which would be ideal for children and adults. Alternatively, you could set up a business through the form of a travel app, which can make the entire experience much more seamless.

The great thing about the travel industry, encompassing so many areas of interest and skill, is that there are so many opportunities to create your own business that helps people who are frequent travelers. Make sure you are finding something that you are passionate about before finding a way to turn it into a service or product that other businesses or tourists can pay for when they are traveling.

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Top 8 Online Business Opportunities in the Travel and Tourism Industry

Last Updated: 13th Nov, 2021

The travel industry has grown exponentially over the past few years. One of the many factors responsible for the growth within this industry is the increase in the purchasing power of consumers. Advancements in technology have proven to be the most important factor that has improved the experience a traveler seeks.

According to Statista, the global economic contribution of the travel industry reached 4.6 trillion USD in 2020. Amid the easing pandemic restrictions and increasing business opportunities in the tourism industry, these numbers are expected to increase even further. To excel in the travel industry, it is important for entrepreneurs to identify the right business model and the ideal travel & activity booking software to successfully launch an online travel marketplace.

In this blog post, we will present the top 8 Travel & Tourism Business ideas for entrepreneurs who want to be a part of the travel industry. Without further ado, let’s jump right in.

Online Hotel, Flight and Rental Car Booking Marketplace
Run Vacation Rental Booking Marketplace
Launch Online Travel Discussion Platform
Online Travel Adventures Booking Site
Online Bike Rental Marketplace
Start a Snorkeling and Diving Equipment Rental/Booking Business
Skiing Activity Booking/Rental Business
Start a Boat Rental Marketplace

1. Online Hotel, Flight and Rental Car Booking Marketplace

With digitalization taking the center stage, people prefer to Google and search for places they plan to visit. Before traveling, transportation and accommodation are two important elements to consider during the research phase. To help you understand the working of a hotel/flight booking website, look at the following process diagram.

working of a hotel/flight booking website

The model of this business is based on the concept of the marketplace. The hotel lists itself on the booking website. When a customer books a room from the marketplace website, the hotel is notified about the booking and the travel website owner or manager deducts an amount as commission. Booking.com is a prime example of such a marketplace.

Current Status of Hotel, Flight, and Car Rental Marketplace

The online travel market has a huge scope for eCommerce marketplaces that offer hotel, flight, and rental car booking functionality. According to a report by Allied Market Research, the annual growth rate for the online travel industry is projected to reach $1.1 trillion by 2022, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.1% since 2016. The instrumental resurgence of the travel industry is a result of travel giants and startups offering value/convenience to their customers.

For instance, travel industry behemoth Amadeus has partnered with Hopper, an emerging travel app, to introduce an instant rebooking feature (in case of any cancellation) to its marketplace. Similarly, Expedia Group is merging loyalty programs across its travel brands (Orbitz, hotels.com, Expedia, and more) to expand member benefits.

Business Opportunities in Hotel, Flight, and Car Rental Marketplace

It is an effective business model that requires business owners to understand their niche target audience and generate relevant leads. When choosing this business model, consider all the pros and cons while planning the marketing strategy.

If you wish to launch a travel booking website, try to conduct in-depth competitor research to know what your competition provides. Ideally, you should document your requirements based on the functionalities you require. Finally, make sure you understand what the future holds for the travel industry after which you compare and hire a website development partner to create the website as per your requirements. You can also choose an online travel activity booking software that delivers ready-made tour & travel marketplace. This will save you hundreds of thousands of development hours.

2. Run Vacation Rental Booking Marketplace

Booking hotels and cabs cost more money as compared to renting a place. It all started back in 1996 when a couple in Colorado was looking for a way to rent their ski condo and created a website for the same.

In rental booking, property owners list their apartments/condos/flats for rent. Travelers can search for rental places in their desired areas and choose the one that best suits them in terms of size, cost, location, etc. Renting property is advantageous for people traveling with families for a longer duration. To understand the business model better, refer to the diagram below:

Current Status of Vacation Rental Booking Marketplace

2021 saw an uptick in family travelers on Airbnb and Expedia’s Vrbo. According to a new study by The Points Guy, these travelers are seeking a vacation rental space to enjoy and explore during extended weekends while continuing to work remotely during weekdays. As the travel industry rebounds from the COVID-19 crisis, Airbnb – the industry giant – recently announced the launch of 100+ new innovative upgrades such as flexible dates selection (rather than fixed dates) for vacation rentals, expansion of support agents to almost double, use of smart text selection to simplify listings for hosts, and much more.

Moreover, Airbnb released a 2021 report on Travel & Living with insights across the industry. It includes key findings such as – 200 million flexible date searches since January 2021, overall bookings in 94,000 cities in 12 months (ending on April 30, 2021), and an increase in longer stays vacations (28 days and more) from 14% in 2019 to 24% in Q1 2020. These stats reveal the explosive demand for vacation rentals and also how the pandemic has fundamentally changed travel.

From emerging marketplaces such as Evolve to industry giants such as Airbnb and Vrbo, several key players are playing an important role to consolidate a buoyant accommodation industry.

Business Opportunities in Vacation Rental Booking Marketplace

For any new business, a good marketing strategy is needed. As the rental vacation industry has presently shown growth post the crisis, it will attract a good number of hosts and renters. Therefore, to start your vacation rental marketplace, you need to be specific and different in your service provision with good SEO services, promotional services, branding, photography, and videography to spread awareness.

3. Launch Online Travel Discussion Platform

This platform makes it easy for travelers to decide whether they should undertake the trip or not and if yes, what is the best option while traveling. These platforms provide advisory to help people know the best places to travel and notify nearby tourist places of the destination through user-generated content (UGC). Check the graphic below to get a clearer idea of the business model.

These platforms provide you with detailed information about the places that you must visit in a set time of the year. The websites help you compare fares offered by various hotels and you can opt for the services you want to avail.

Current Status of Online Travel Discussion Platform

One of the most renowned companies in the online travel discussion platform is Tripadvisor. Initially, a marketplace that suggests the best places to visit with details of hotels and activities in the desired place, Tripadvisor later added the trip bookings feature emerging as a one-stop solution for travelers to plan, book, and take a trip. Still, the spirit of this firm is to meet the customer’s expectations by providing guidance (thanks to over 934 million reviews) from those that have been there before.

Initially a subsidiary of Expedia Group, Tripadvisor later became an individual firm due to the corporate spin-off. Starting with an initial capital investment of $4 million USD, the company today enjoys a net worth of nearly $5 billion USD – termed as a classic consumer success story in an Harvard Business Review article. TripAdvisor has shown tremendous growth and gained a reputation because it reduces the work for marketers.

But despite being a popular medium, it often faces backlash due to fake reviews on its website. For instance, recently the Tripadvisor team suspended reviews of the 3-star victorian hotel “The Grand Hotel Scarborough” following an influx of review submissions from people who are not staying at the hotel.

Business Opportunities in the Online Travel Discussion Platform

Some rival businesses tend to bring the other one down and it is easier for a site like Tripadvisor to be a target. To build a successful marketplace like Tripadvisor, you need to ensure the marketplace stays authentic with minimal/zero false entries on your website. Hence, while creating such a marketplace, one should be fully prepared for the upcoming challenges. Here are some of the points that need to be taken care of.

Fraud Reviews

Review fraud is a well-known issue that these platforms face. Buying and selling reviews have become a common practice for listing owners these days. Fraud reviews affect the brand image as the audience loses trust in the marketplace resulting in reduced overall website traffic. To minimize such fraud instances, a dedicated team should be available to monitor the platform activities at all times.

Marketplace Security

Starting a marketplace such as Tripadvisor means providing travel bookings that include online payments once the traveler books and shares details on the website. Here, any kind of security breach would result in data or even payment theft, bringing your business down. Hence, to prevent security concerns, website development should be done in such a way that it gives priority to the safety of the customer and their data.

Personalization

Personalization provides a better experience and makes it more appealing to travelers. Changing to a customer-centric strategy leads to a considerable rise in website traffic as well as leads.

Competition

When you have knowledge about your competition you get to plan things beforehand. Developing a strategy for the market is the only way you can deal with the competition.

Travel Season

Season and time of the year are the most important things which have to be taken into account while traveling. People prefer to travel during the months of April-October, Christmas, and New year. For this reason, you should be ready for the highs and lows during vacations. A good marketing approach would be to attract people in the off-season through various discounts.

Maximize your Business Opportunities with a Reliable Marketing Approach

4. online travel adventures booking marketplace.

Traveling was never meant to be restricted to just sightseeing, trying different cuisines, and discovering museums. Often, many travelers wanted to undertake new adventures and focus on experiencing a city/country. This demand created an opportunity for business owners to invest in an adventure gear rental marketplace – a profitable business idea. While the essence of travel continued to evolve with the years gone by, the industry came to a premature halt during the pandemic. Now, amid the easing travel restrictions and the increasing interest of people in seeking adventures, adventure booking websites are gradually returning to normalization. People are looking for different destinations that offer unique adventures that they can undertake. For instance, places like Australia and New Zealand offer skydiving, cliff jumping, bungee jumping adventures whereas Turkey offers the subtle hot air balloon adventure, Costa Rica offers water rafting and the list is never-ending.

GetYourGuide, Viator, and Adrenaline Hunter are some of the popular adventure booking marketplaces online. Adventure booking websites have become immensely popular over the years and below is a graphical representation of its business model:

Online Travel Adventures Booking Marketplace

Current Status of Travel Adventures Booking Marketplace

The travel adventure industry is showing great signs of progress as customers seek variety and adventures post-pandemic as per the Forrester report. The adventure tourism market valued at $112 billion in 2020 is projected to reach an astonishing $1.1 trillion evaluation by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 20.1%, according to Allied Market Research.

Several tour operators utilized the time-off last year to devise creative Travel & Tourism Business ideas and be ready for the post-pandemic boom. For instance, Insight Vacations – a website offering premium tour guides, partnered with Anneka Manning – an Australian author and founder of cooking school Bake Club, to start a food-themed tour of Tasmania in October 2021. Similarly, a US tour operator smarTours collaborated with CVS – a US healthcare company to encourage vaccinations with a OneStepCloser sweepstakes.

Business Opportunities in Travel Adventures Booking Marketplace

The adventure travel trends build a positive outlook of the industry, creating an opening for travel adventure business to outshine in the coming years. The travel activity portal should be social media-friendly as people undertaking adventure activities share their experiences on social media leading to word of mouth marketing.

According to Stratos Jets statistics, around 70% of customers research for travel using their smartphones and it is estimated that around 700 million people will be making their travel bookings online by 2023. This makes mobile-friendly marketplaces and smartphone apps an integral part of travel business growth. Entrepreneurs in this business or planning to open a travel activity marketplace should make their websites robust and mobile-friendly.

You can hire a team of web designers and developers to build the website or can use an already existing system like FunAway – a turnkey online travel activity booking software that enables the host to connect with travelers and assist them. It provides features like calendar management, easy booking, social media signup, and more.

5. Online Bike Rental Marketplace

Sharing economy businesses have prospered over the years, especially after the emergence of Airbnb. The Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Bike rental marketplace is one such collaborative business idea where trusted bike owners connect with users looking to rent or borrow a bike. Renting a bike is extremely popular especially in cities where people commute daily amid traffic congestion. The business model of the bike rental marketplace works as such:

A bike rental website provides a platform for bike owners to make money by renting their equipment to potential rentees at a reasonable price. Also, the website admin earns via commission on bookings, premium listing fees, on-page advertisements, and other revenue channels on the marketplace. Spinlister is a prime example of such a marketplace.

Current Status of Bike Rental Marketplace

Amid the pandemic, cycling has emerged as a safer, healthier alternative to commuters. According to a report by The NPD Group , in April 2020, adult leisure bikes saw a significant jump of 121% in sales reflecting the growing consumer demand. The trend continues as the global bike-sharing service market size is estimated to reach from $3.3 billion in 2020 to $13.7 billion in 2026, as per Statista survey.

Business Opportunities in Bike Rental Marketplace

Urban policy and planning Journal – Cities, recently published a new paper citing the environmental benefits of bike-sharing services. The study says that bike-share travelers saved around 500 tons of emissions during the 2014-2017 period in NYC. As people become increasingly aware of the environment, the bike-sharing and rental industry is bound to prosper even further.

6. Start a Snorkeling and Diving Equipment Rental/Booking Business

Snorkeling is a popular underwater recreational activity where divers swim on the water’s surface facedown to relish the marine environment. Snorkelers require these equipment to breathe underwater. There are many diving lessons to learn about snorkeling equipment and swimming methods. It requires three pieces of equipment:

A curved plastic tube called a snorkel , used for breathing underwater
Mask to protect nose/face from water
And Diving fins to swim

Diving equipment such as these is either sold or given on rent by the sellers in a snorkeling/diving equipment marketplace. Aqua-Lung, Cressi Sub, and Seavenger are among the industry leaders in the global snorkeling equipment market.

Current Status of Snorkeling Equipment Rental Business

With a contribution of around $11 billion in the US alone, the recreational scuba diving and snorkeling equipment market is poised for incremental growth, according to a report by the Diving Equipment and Marketing Association (DEMA). Also, Statista recently published a survey report that highlights that in the year 2017 US had approximately 8.38 million participants in Snorkeling activity. These numbers have grown substantially and will continue to increase even further as the travel industry rebounds.

Business Opportunities in Snorkeling Equipment Rental Business

The popularity of recreational activities such as snorkeling has dramatically increased highlighting the need for a reliable snorkeling equipment marketplace. While there are a few leading manufacturers/suppliers of such diving equipment in the industry, online marketplaces are few and far between. Hence, it is an excellent opportunity for a business owner or an entrepreneur to invest in a snorkeling equipment marketplace (for rental or sale) by choosing the right travel & activity booking software.

7. Skiing Activity Booking/Rental Business

Skiing is another popular recreational activity as well as a competitive sport that attracts a lot of attention/tourists thanks to the Olympics. While people often viewed this as an extreme sport, new and promising marketplaces such as Liftopia (skiing and mountain activity marketplace) are changing this case by making Skiing more affordable and accessible to the average consumer.

The skiing activity booking marketplace connects users (skiers and snowboarding enthusiasts) to ski resorts around the world. Also, there are skiing equipment rental marketplaces where individual sellers offer skiing gear on rent or sale to the users. In both these instances, the marketplace admin earns a commission fee on every transaction.

Current Status of Skiing Activity Rental Business

According to a recent Statista survey, there were around 9.2 million skiers and snowboarders in the US in 2018. This number has grown substantially over the years. Moreover, the market for ski gear and equipment has also increased. The global ski gear and equipment market is forecasted to reach $1.74 billion USD by 2028, as per another Statista report.

Business Opportunities in Skiing Activity Rental Business

While the Ski season is almost here, it will be the industry’s third operating season since the pandemic began. From mountain resorts to ski equipment providers, everyone is planning for the season. Despite the crisis, the Skiing industry is showing great signs of progress as users show a keen interest in such recreational activities around the world. This is why skiing activity booking and the rental marketplace is a popular business idea worth investing in.

Start an Activity Booking Marketplace with FunAway

8. start an online boat rental marketplace.

Boat rental is a thriving industry that saw a significant uptick in bookings last year even as the pandemic affected the tourism industry. Boats emerged as a safe, reliable means to travel and enjoy while safeguarding occupants from crowded areas. From everyday sailor boats to luxury yachts, boat rental continued to remain a highly profitable business with instrumental growth. There are 3 prominent activities driving the demand for boat rental business namely – cruising, watersports (such as jet ski racing and powerboat racing), and fishing.

Amid the surge in tourism and an increasing public interest in recreational activities, the boat rental market is expected to grow at a 4.71% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) reaching an estimated $25.8 billion by 2028.

Current Status of Boat Rental Marketplace

Boatsetter – one of the leading P2P boat rental marketplace delivered 15,000+ trips for over 60,000 customers in 2020. Similarly, GetMyBoat – another giant in the boat rental marketplace, achieved a 700% year-over-year (YoY) growth rate in 2021 recording an annual run rate (ARR) of over $158 million, as per the latest press release .

According to Bryan Petro, CEO of GetMyBoat, the boat rental industry experienced a 3900% increase in demand during the pandemic last year with an influx of first-time renters. This is despite tapping the full potential as there are travel limitations and lockdowns in many parts of the world.

Business Opportunities in Boat Rental Marketplace

The P2P boat rental business is a booming market that continues to see growth as promising new players such as Popey.co enter the market. It is a highly profitable business and is expected to see a surge in various regions of the world once travel limitations and restrictions ease. Moreover, the marketplace owner has a variety of revenue channels at its disposal such as rental commission, service fees, subscription plans, PPC campaigns, affiliate marketing, and more. Starting a P2P boat rental business is a good idea with great investment returns.

While the COVID-19 crisis ravaged the travel industry last year, it is showing signs of recovery as travel restrictions are removed. People are looking to travel more, seeking change and adventure. This has attracted hosts and startups alike to start an online travel business. But, before starting a travel marketplace, it is advised to devise a reliable business strategy, select an ideal tour & activity booking software, and identify the unique offerings that will provide your marketplace business with an edge over the competitors.

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Author: Sahil Verma

With a master’s degree in computer science, Sahil Verma shares his deep understanding of technologies through words. He is a passionate writer who loves to explore the IT sector and trends that define the industry dynamics. Apart from writing, he is an avid cricket and tennis fan idolizing Virat Kohli and Novak Djokovic.

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Top 9 Travel Trends & Innovations in 2024

How are the latest trends in the travel industry reshaping trip planning and enhancing tourist experiences in 2024? Explore our in-depth industry research on the top 9 travel trends based on our analysis of 3500+ companies worldwide. These trends include AI, immersive tourism, IoT, contactless travel & more!

Technological advancements in the travel industry meet the growing demand for personalized experiences, safety, and sustainability. Post the COVID-19 pandemic, emerging travel trends mark a shift towards contactless travel through digital payments, self-check-ins, and more. Additionally, artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain are automating various hospitality and travel-related operations.

For instance, smart hotels make use of internet-connected devices to remotely control rooms. Further, businesses offer virtual tours by adopting extended reality (XR) technologies like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). Travel companies also leverage data analytics to personalize marketing. At the same time, traveler assisting solutions like chatbots and voice technology aid them in booking accommodation and optimizing journeys. These travel trends improve the overall profitability of the tourism industry and enable it to make operations more sustainable and safe.

This article was published in July 2022 and updated in February 2024.

Innovation Map outlines the Top 9 Travel Trends & 18 Promising Startups

For this in-depth research on the Top 9 Trends & Startups, we analyzed a sample of 18 global startups and scaleups. The result of this research is data-driven innovation intelligence that improves strategic decision-making by giving you an overview of emerging technologies & startups in the travel industry. These insights are derived by working with our Big Data & Artificial Intelligence-powered StartUs Insights Discovery Platform , covering 2 500 000+ startups & scaleups globally. As the world’s largest resource for data on emerging companies, the SaaS platform enables you to identify relevant startups, emerging technologies & future industry trends quickly & exhaustively.

In the Innovation Map below, you get an overview of the Top 9 Travel Trends & Innovations that impact travel & tourism companies worldwide. Moreover, the Travel Innovation Map reveals 3 500+ hand-picked startups, all working on emerging technologies that advance their field.

Top 9 Travel Trends

Artificial Intelligence
Immersive Tourism
Internet of Things
Contactless Travel
Big Data & Analytics
Post-Pandemic Tourism
Tour Premiumization

Travel-trends-innovation-InnovationMap-StartUs-Insights-noresize

Click to download

Tree Map reveals the Impact of the Top 9 Travel Trends

Based on the Travel Innovation Map, the Tree Map below illustrates the impact of the Top 9 Travel Industry Trends in 2024. Startups and scaleups are enabling contactless travel using technologies like biometrics, radio-frequency identification (RFID), and near-field communication (NFC). This is due to increasing health and hygiene concerns post the pandemic. The use of AI in tourism ensures hassle-free trip planning while AR and VR allow tourists to virtually visit various locations and excursions. IoT increases visibility into tourism industry operations and allows passengers to track their luggage more efficiently. Further, the demand for personalized and luxurious travel is rising. Several startups enable recreational space travel as well as offer sustainable travel options to passengers.

Travel-trends-innovation-TreeMap-StartUs-Insights-noresize

Global Startup Heat Map covers 3 635 Travel Startups & Scaleups

The Global Startup Heat Map below highlights the global distribution of the 3 635 exemplary startups & scaleups that we analyzed for this research. Created through the StartUs Insights Discovery Platform, the Heat Map reveals that the US, Europe, and India see the most activity.

Below, you get to meet 18 out of these 3 635 promising startups & scaleups as well as the solutions they develop. These 18 startups are hand-picked based on criteria such as founding year, location, funding raised, and more. Depending on your specific needs, your top picks might look entirely different.

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Interested in exploring all 3500+ travel startups & scaleups?

Top 9 Travel Trends in 2024

1. artificial intelligence.

Hotels employ intelligent chatbots, powered by AI, to provide quick and personalized responses to traveler inquiries. These chatbots simplify the booking process and gather customer reviews, aiding potential travelers in making informed decisions. Moreover, AI-based robots enhance the customer experience by automating hotel disinfection and delivering room service.

At airports, these robots guide travelers and assist with luggage handling. Facial recognition technology, driven by AI, expedites identity verification at airports, enhancing security and offering a swift alternative to traditional methods. Startups are developing AI-powered trip planning solutions, optimizing journeys, and personalizing travel experiences.

Travel Professor develops a Travel Chatbot

UK-based startup Travel Professor offers an AI-enabled chatbot for travelers. The startup’s chat widget software monitors multiple flight deals and notifies users when their preferences match. It also provides travel destination recommendations and flight price alerts. This allows travelers to book economical flights and have a budget-friendly tourism experience.

Pneuma Travel facilitates Travel Planning

US startup Pneuma Travel develops a voice-assisted digital agent, Sarah , to streamline the process of travel planning. This assistant, powered by AI, excels in arranging flight and accommodation bookings and assists travelers in discovering a variety of activities. Sarah , available round the clock, provides continuous support for all travel-related inquiries.

Moreover, Sarah customizes travel options according to individual preferences and budgetary constraints. The agent further enhances the travel experience by providing insights into local attractions in unfamiliar cities. Importantly, Sarah enables real-time modifications to travel plans, in compliance with specific airline policies, thereby minimizing waiting times for users.

2. Immersive Tourism

Immersive tourism caters to the growing demand for meaningful experiences among travelers, leveraging AR, VR, and mixed reality (MR). VR simulates original locations through a computer-generated environment, allowing tourists to virtually explore destinations. It provides travelers with a comprehensive 360-degree tour of points of interest.

AR enhances the travel experience with interactive elements such as navigation maps and ads. Travel companies employ AR and VR-based gamification to heighten tourist attractions. Moreover, these technologies enable hotels and resorts to present amenities and rooms in an engaging, interactive manner.

VR Travel Expo offers VR-based Travel Plans

US startup VR Travel Expo develops a VR travel application to transform the way people research and book travel. The application enables users to plan their vacations more efficiently. It provides an engaging platform for users to explore and expand their knowledge of the world. Moreover, it employs 3D geospatial technology that creates real-time digital twins of the world. This further enhances the travel planning experience.

AR Tour makes AR Glasses

Italian startup AR Tour offers AR-powered tours. The startup’s AR glasses superimpose reconstructed images of archaeological ruins to show how the site originally was. Its tour informs the tourists about the site’s history and significance via an audio-visual package. Moreover, the startup designs lightweight AR glasses to prevent motion sickness among tourists, improving convenience.

3. Internet of Things

IoT generates ample data that tourism companies leverage to personalize services in their subsequent visits. Hotels use IoT sensors to enable smart rooms that automate room lighting, temperature, and ambiance control, enhancing guest comfort. These sensors adjust appliances in vacant rooms, conserving energy and reducing the building’s carbon footprint.

Startups harness IoT to deliver location-specific information to customers, including real-time luggage tracking via IoT tags, minimizing lost items. Airlines also incorporate IoT-based solutions into seats, monitoring passenger temperature and heart rate for proactive health management.

Altitude enables Smart Hotels

New Zealand-based startup Altitude creates an IoT-based hotel software and hardware to develop smart hotels. The startup makes self-service kiosks to automate reservations, room up-gradation, payments, as well as check-in and check-out. Its hotel management platform further enables contactless engagement with guests. Additionally, Altitude’s mobile keys allow guests to open doors using mobile phones, providing convenience and saving time for travelers.

Smart Tour provides Smart Itineraries

Brazilian startup Smart Tour offers smart itineraries using IoT and quick response (QR) codes. The startup recommends travel routes and destinations based on the user’s preference in real-time. This facilitates a seamless experience for travelers. Besides, the user-generated data enables tourism managers to better understand consumer behavior and indulge in proximity marketing. The startup also offers a contact tracing solution to monitor COVID-19 infected travelers and ensure public safety.

4. Contactless Travel

Travelers benefit from contactless recognition technologies like retina scanning, which replace traditional travel documents, speeding up passenger identification and reducing airport queues. QR codes offered by travel companies allow tourists to access relevant information on their mobile devices, enhancing engagement.

Hotels have introduced contactless self-check-ins, enabling visitors to arrange services before arrival. Additionally, contactless payment modes are available in hotels and restaurants for swift and secure transactions. Moreover, wearable devices are transforming the travel experience by providing real-time notifications and touch-free access to services and information.

Loxe designs Smart Hotel Keys

US-based startup Loxe makes smart mobile keys for hotels. The startup’s smartphone app replaces key cards with contactless mobile keys that allow users to unlock doors using smartphones. It also reduces operational costs incurred in the manufacturing of conventional keys or plastic cards. Moreover, the startup designs a Bluetooth retrofit module that converts normal door locks into mobile-ready door locks. This allows hotel owners to easily convert their existing locks into smart ones without additional expenses while improving guest safety and convenience.

Avendi provides Contactless Payment

Singaporean startup Avendi offers contactless and cashless payments for travelers. The startup allows tourists to accumulate expenses throughout their trip and pay at the end of the journey. Avendi’s app utilizes QR codes to add all the billed expenses and shown through its dashboard. The user settles the tab amount in the preferred currency, preventing the inconvenience of cash withdrawal or credit card payments.

5. Big Data & Analytics

Big data empowers travel companies with customer trends for strategic marketing. Analyzing traveler behavior, they offer tailored recommendations for hotel bookings, cab hires, flight reservations, and ticket purchases.

Predicting future demand is another advantage of big data and analytics, helping hotels and airlines identify peak periods to optimize revenue. Advanced analysis of transactional data aids in detecting cyber fraud, and safeguarding sensitive customer information such as credit card details and biometric data.

CheckandPack creates a Travel Platform

Dutch startup CheckandPack offers a big data travel platform. It runs marketing campaigns to gather traveler data and understand tourism trends. Based on these insights, the platform enables businesses to approach travelers with a customized appeal. It also provides travelers with holiday planning.

3Victors provides Travel Data Analytics

US-based startup 3Victors offers travel data analytics. The startup’s product, PriceEye Suite , proactively monitors the prices of numerous airlines to provide insights into competitor prices. It creates a dashboard to display travelers’ location of interest, allowing travel airlines to better manage their revenue and pricing strategy.

6. Post-Pandemic Tourism

Post-pandemic tourism focuses on safe, sustainable, and flexible travel options, responding to evolving traveler preferences and health guidelines. Enhanced health and safety protocols, including regular sanitization and contactless services, become standard in airlines and hotels, ensuring traveler confidence.

Destinations and operators emphasize outdoor and less crowded experiences, catering to a heightened demand for nature-based and wellness travel. Flexible booking policies and trip insurance gain prominence, offering peace of mind amid uncertainties. Sustainable travel gains traction, with tourists and businesses prioritizing environmental impact and community well-being.

GOPASS Global enables Pre-travel Risk Management

Singaporean startup GOPASS Global provides a travel risk analytics platform against COVID-19. It analyzes the biosecurity risk elements involved in a trip, such as border restrictions, quarantine requirements, airport type, and airline transit points or seating in real-time. This allows travelers to assess risk factors and plan their trips accordingly.

Moreover, the startup creates world maps displaying information regarding COVID-prone areas, testing areas, and vaccine coverage. This provides travelers with a preview of the current situation, allowing them to ensure safety during business and leisure travel.

Workcations enables Work from Anywhere

Indian startup Workcations provides properties at tourist destinations for remote-working individuals. It offers amenities like internet connectivity, food, and a quiet ambiance, allowing tourists to work in a peaceful environment without hindrance. This increases employee productivity, motivation, and retention.

7. Tour Premiumization

Hyper-personalization in travel experiences is on the rise, with tourists eager to immerse themselves in diverse cultures. Luxury travelers enjoy tailored experiences and intuitive services through tour premiumization. Health and wellness packages offered by travel startups help tourists unwind.

These retreats enhance health and offer detoxifying food options. Space tourism is another exciting development, offering leisure or research trips to space. Lastly, travel startups are fostering customer loyalty and building strong relationships through membership or subscription models.

STOKE provides Space Tour

US-based startup STOKE facilitates space travel using everyday-operable rockets. The startup’s rockets are reusable and deliver satellites to any desired orbit. This enables on-demand access to space, paving way for space tours for exploration, recreation, and research. The startup also emphasizes the economical and rapid development of its hardware for feasible spacecraft launches, advancing space tourism.

Origin offers Travel Personalization

Dutch startup Origin provides premium travel personalization to tourists. The startup utilizes machine learning and travel curators to plan creative vacations. It also arranges flights and accommodation for travelers. Further, the startup measures the carbon output of itineraries and offers sustainable tourism options.

8. Ecotourism

Traveling responsibly minimizes tourism’s environmental impact and supports local communities’ well-being. Ecotourists strive to reduce their carbon footprint during their journeys. Startups contribute by developing sustainable transport, ecolodges, and solar-powered resorts.

Airline passengers have the option to offset carbon emissions during flight bookings. Local tourism stimulates small businesses economically and creates job opportunities. It also emphasizes minimum littering, which lowers pollution and the time spent on cleanups.

Jet-Set Offset simplifies Flight Carbon Offset

US-based startup Jet-Set Offset creates a carbon-offsetting platform for air travel. The startup partners with non-profit organizations working against climate change and connects them with travelers. Each time travelers book flight tickets via the startup’s platform, Jet-Set Offset contributes a certain amount per mile for their journey to environmental organizations. This way, the passenger’s journey promotes mileage-based donations to offset carbon emissions.

The Green Stamp facilitates Ethical Wildlife Tour

Dutch startup The Green Stamp provides a platform to book ethical wildlife tours. It curates tours based on the tourists’ inclinations toward certain locations or wildlife. Exploration of these projects allows travelers to indirectly contribute to their cause as these wildlife projects donate to the welfare of local communities and the environment.

9. Blockchain

Blockchain provides the travel industry with operational transparency and security. Traceable payments, particularly for international travel, are a key application, that fosters trust among parties involved in transactions.

Automation and enforcement of agreements in travel insurance and supplier contracts are achieved through smart contracts. This strengthens reliability and cuts administrative costs. Travel firms establish customer loyalty programs where points are exchanged for cryptocurrency. Lastly, blockchain increases data storage security, reducing the risk of information leaks.

Upswing facilitates Guest Profiling

Indian startup Upswing creates AURA , a blockchain-powered platform for guest profiling. It provides a holistic view of guests, their preferences, and purchase patterns. The platform associates a score with each guest and suggests improvements in their service. This facilitates hotels to provide a personalized experience to their guests and, in turn, increase sales.

UIQ Travel develops a Solo Traveling App

US-based startup UIQ Travel develops a blockchain-based app to connect solo travelers. It discovers people with shared interests and suggests tours or attractions. Such hyper-personalized recommendations assist in experience discovery and also increase traveler engagement.

Discover all Travel Trends, Technologies & Startups

Tourism, although severely impacted by the pandemic, now continues to rapidly grow across the globe. Post-pandemic trends indicate an increasing emphasis on hygiene and safety during travel. The industry is witnessing the widespread adoption of disruptive technologies like AI, XR, IoT, and blockchain. The travel industry utilizes big data to understand traveler trends for targeted marketing. The transition to ecotourism is accelerating as businesses integrate zero-emission transit and carbon offset programs to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Travel Trends & Startups outlined in this report only scratch the surface of trends that we identified during our data-driven innovation and startup scouting process. Among others, personalization, decarbonization, and travel safety will transform the sector as we know it today. Identifying new opportunities and emerging technologies to implement into your business goes a long way in gaining a competitive advantage. Get in touch to easily and exhaustively scout startups, technologies & trends that matter to you!

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18 Companies & Startups Revitalizing Travel in 2024

1. TravelPerk

5-year search growth : 270%

Search growth status : Exploding

Year founded : 2015

Location : Barcelona, Spain

Funding : $530.3M (Series Unknown)

What they do : TravelPerk is a travel management platform designed to simplify business travel. It offers a centralized platform for booking, managing, and analyzing business travel, with features such as real-time booking, expense management, and travel policy enforcement. The company aims to reduce the time and cost associated with business travel while providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for travelers.

2. SafetyWing

5-year search growth : 1,550%

Year founded : 2017

Location : Palo Alto, California

Funding : $47.1M (Series B)

What they do : SafetyWing is an insurtech company that focuses on digital nomads. Their flagship "Nomad Insurance" is accepted across several different countries (ideal for travel). SafetyWing also offers a B2B "Remote Health" product that provides coverage for remote teams.

5-year search growth : 99x+

Year founded : 2019

Location : Singapore, Singapore

Funding : $67.3M (Series B)

What they do : Airalo is an alternative to using multiple SIM cards while traveling. Specifically, the company offers over 190 affordable "eSIMs" that can be switched over with a few clicks. eSIMs aren't supported by all smartphones. But are becoming an increasingly-common feature in newer models. The SIM company recently raised $60 million in their most recent series B funding found.

4. Roadsurfer

5-year search growth : 1,360%

Location : Bayern, Germany

Funding : $33.9M (Series Unknown)

What they do : Roadsurfer rents out customized camper vans in 13 countries in Europe. Besides the core rental service, the startup also offers a number of optional add-ons for each trip, like kitchen cutlery. Each plan also includes an insurance policy.

5. YouLi (YouLive to Travel)

5-year search growth : 41%

Search growth status : Peaked

Year founded : 2016

Location : Melbourne, Australia

Funding : $200K (Angel)

What they do : YouLi is an all-in-one travel management software for organizing group trips and company retreats. The software includes a number templates for different types of travel itineraries. The software also has a member's area that travelers can use to manage and pay for their trips.

6. PickYourTrail

5-year search growth : 188%

Search growth status : Regular

Year founded : 2014

Location : Chennai, India

Funding : $3M (Series Unknown)

What they do : PickYourTrail is a platform for booking entire trips online (including flight, road transportation and lodging). The startup reports that 46,000 people have used the service to date.

5-year search growth : 400%

Location : New York, NY

Funding : Undisclosed

What they do : Tracki is a travel tech startup that provides real-time GPS tracking solutions for individuals, families, and businesses. Their products range from portable GPS trackers to asset trackers and pet trackers, which can be easily monitored through their mobile app or web platform.

8. Very Local Trip

5-year search growth : 475%

What they do : Very Local Trip connects travelers with local tour guides. In other words, the startup is a focused version of Airbnb's "Experiences" feature.

5-year search growth : 4,900%

Year founded : 2018

Location : Madrid, Spain

Funding : $200.6K (Seed)

What they do : Holafly is an eSIM startup that offers international data plans for travelers. The company partners with local providers in different countries and offers unlimited data plans for a fixed time period. Currently, the startup operates in 160+ countries with 1 million customers worldwide.

5-year search growth : 21%

Location : New York, New York

Funding : $181M (Series D)

What they do : Away is a DTC travel brand. Often called the “Warby Parker for suitcases,” the company keeps overhead costs low by selling direct-to-consumer. Away's product line includes sleep masks, travel pillows and compression socks.

5-year search growth : 231%

Location : Denver, Colorado

What they do : GOTRAX is an electric scooter company that provides affordable and eco-friendly transportation solutions for urban dwellers. With a range of electric scooters for adults and kids, GOTRAX offers a convenient and cost-effective way to navigate through busy city streets.

12. Lodgify

Year founded : 2012

Funding : $36.6M (Series B)

What they do : Lodgify develops software that help property owners manage their vacation rental properties. The all-in-one website includes features to manage bookings, accept reservations, and synchronize across different platforms, including Airbnb, Vrbo, and Expedia.

13. Bobobox

5-year search growth : 325%

Location : Badung, Indonesia

Funding : $13M (Series A)

What they do : Bobobox is a technology-based hospitality startup that provides affordable and accessible capsule hotels for travelers in Indonesia. The company utilizes an app-based platform that allows customers to book and manage their stays, as well as access various hotel amenities and services. Bobobox aims to revolutionize the hospitality industry in Indonesia by offering affordable and convenient lodging options that cater to the needs of modern travelers.

5-year search growth : 6%

Location : Bucharest, Romania

Funding : $1.8M (Seed)

What they do : Questo is a mobile app for iPhone and Android that gamifies city exploration. Users embark on "quests" in order discover interesting spots and learn about local lore. Each quest is designed by a local "creator". The app currently offers quests in over 100 cities.

15. Bespoke

5-year search growth : 39%

Location : Tokyo, Japan

Funding : $2.5M (Series B)

What they do : Bespoke has developed an AI-powered chatbot designed for multilingual guest services. Their software provides hotel guests with answers to hotel-specific questions, local recommendations, and restaurant reservations. Bespoke was used by the Japanese government during COVID-19 to communicate critical health and safety updates to residents and travelers.

16. Tailos (Formerly Maidbot)

5-year search growth : 340%

Location : Austin, Texas

Funding : $50K (Series B)

What they do : Tailos , formerly Maidbot, manufacturers a housekeeping robot (named Rosie) designed to clean hotels and commercial buildings. Rosie takes on "dull, dirty, and dangerous tasks", in order to reduce injuries to staff while increasing productivity and consistency.

17. TasteAtlas

5-year search growth : 375%

Location : Zagreb, Croatia

What they do : TasteAtlas is a food and travel startup that provides a comprehensive guide to traditional dishes, drinks, and ingredients from all over the world. The platform offers a database of authentic food recommendations and local restaurants to help travelers discover new cuisines and experiences. Additionally, TasteAtlas allows users to create their own food maps and share their culinary discoveries with others.

18. Roame Travel

5-year search growth : 2,300%

Search growth status : Exploding

Year founded : 2023

Location : San Francisco, California

What they do : Roame is a free award travel search engine that finds available flights that qualify for credit card points and miles redemption. Currently, Roame provides search results for 16 airline loyalty programs and 200 airlines . Users can upgrade to a premium membership to access the SkyView feature, a search function that finds flights within a 90-day search window.

That wraps up our list of travel startups growing despite the hardships of the pandemic.

The trend away from traditional hotels and towards short-term rental properties, RVs, and campsites accelerated this year as more people work remotely and seek a change of scenery.

There is also a notable shift towards AI and automation, as hotels seek to cut costs and increase efficiency.

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Best 55 Profitable Travel Business Ideas in 2024

January 27, 2024
by Next What Business Research Team

India, with its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and vibrant tourism industry, presents a plethora of opportunities for entrepreneurs looking to venture into the travel business sector. From luxury travel concierge services to adventure sports equipment rental, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we will explore some of the best travel business ideas in India, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of travellers seeking unique and memorable experiences across the country.

What is a Travel Business?

A travel business refers to any enterprise that provides products or services related to travel, tourism, and hospitality. These businesses cater to the needs of travellers by offering a wide range of services, including transportation, accommodation, tour packages, activities, and other related amenities.

Travel businesses can take various forms, such as travel agencies, tour operators, accommodation providers (hotels, resorts, hostels), transportation services (airlines, cruise lines, car rental companies), destination management companies, and online travel agencies (OTAs).

List of 55 Travel Business Ideas

#1. tour operator.

A tour operator business in India involves organizing and conducting tours for travellers to explore various destinations within the country. This business plays a crucial role in facilitating memorable travel experiences by curating itineraries and arranging accommodations, transportation, and activities for tourists.

#2. Travel Agency

Starting a travel agency is one of the most common and lucrative business opportunities in the tourism industry. Broadly, you can start the business in two ways. Either as an independent travel operator or as a franchise partner of a reputed travel company. This business is easy to start. And it doesn’t demand huge capital investment initially.

#3. Adventure Club

You can start an adventure club in any area regardless of your location. Generally, adventure clubs arrange adventure trips, activities, and sports for the members. Apart from the membership fees, you can earn advertising revenue from the different companies who want to promote their products.

#4. Homestay Accommodation

A homestay accommodation business in India involves offering lodging and hospitality services to travellers in a home-like environment. It provides an opportunity for tourists to experience local culture, cuisine, and hospitality while staying with host families or individuals.

#5. Heritage Tour Guide

A heritage tour guide business in India involves offering guided tours to historical and cultural landmarks, heritage sites, and architectural wonders across the country. As a heritage tour guide, you play a crucial role in educating and entertaining tourists about India’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance.

#6. Wildlife Tour Operator

A wildlife tour operator business in India involves organizing and facilitating guided tours to explore the diverse wildlife and natural habitats across the country. As a wildlife tour operator, you play a vital role in offering curated wildlife experiences, including safaris, birdwatching tours, jungle expeditions, and eco-tourism adventures.

#7. Destination Wedding Planner

#8. cruise tour operator.

A cruise tour operator business in India involves organizing and managing cruise vacations for travellers, offering them memorable experiences aboard luxury cruise ships along India’s coastal regions or international destinations. As a cruise tour operator, you’ll be responsible for planning cruise itineraries, coordinating travel arrangements, and providing exceptional customer service to cruise passengers.

#9. Photography Tour Organizer

A photography tour-organizing business in India involves curating and managing guided tours and workshops for photography enthusiasts, offering them opportunities to explore picturesque destinations and capture stunning images while enhancing their photography skills.

#10. Food Tour Operator

A food tour operator business in India involves organizing guided culinary experiences for locals and tourists, showcasing the rich diversity of Indian cuisine and culture through curated food tours to different regions, cities, and neighbourhoods. You will need to arrange for necessary permits, licenses, and permissions required for conducting food tours in specific locations, adhering to regulatory guidelines and ensuring compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.

Read: Best Food Business Ideas

#11. Pilgrimage Tour Operator

Pilgrimage tourism holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in India, attracting millions of devotees and spiritual seekers from around the world. As a pilgrimage tour operator in India, you have the opportunity to facilitate enriching and spiritually uplifting journeys to revered religious sites across the country. You can consider destinations like Varanasi, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Amritsar, Bodh Gaya, Tirupati, Shirdi, Vaishno Devi, and others based on their religious significance and historical importance.

#12. Adventure Sports Equipment Rental

The adventure sports industry is booming worldwide, offering thrilling experiences for enthusiasts seeking adrenaline-pumping activities. As an adventure sports equipment rental business owner, you have the opportunity to cater to this growing market by providing high-quality equipment for various adventure sports and activities. You can rent out adventure sports equipment such as bicycles, kayaks, and camping gear to adventure enthusiasts.

#13. Yoga and Wellness Retreat Organizer

Yoga and wellness retreats have gained immense popularity in recent years as people seek holistic experiences to rejuvenate their mind, body, and soul. If you have a passion for yoga and wellness practices, starting a yoga and wellness retreat organizer business in India can be a fulfilling venture. You can consider incorporating elements such as yoga classes, meditation sessions, Ayurveda treatments, nature walks, cultural experiences, and healthy organic meals.

Read: How to Start a Yoga Business

#14. Luxury Travel Concierge Services

Luxury travel concierge services cater to the needs of discerning travelers seeking exclusive and personalized experiences. If you have a passion for luxury travel and a knack for creating unforgettable experiences, starting a luxury travel concierge services business in India can be a rewarding venture.

#15. Airport Game Arcade

If you want to start a small kiosk retail business, then you can consider this opportunity. In most international airports, people spend a lot of time waiting for their next flights. And definitely, they look for an entertainment opportunity to pass the time. Hence, you can earn a lucrative income from an airport game arcade.

#16. Airport Shuttle Service

This is another great opportunity if you live in a location near the airport. You have to provide a fast, easy, cost-effective way to book airport ground transportation. Additionally, you may consider providing two different services also – shuttle and private sedan. However, the business demands moderate capital investment and strategic planning.

#17. Beach Hotel

Beach hotels are very popular worldwide. Generally, these hotels provide hotels, conference rooms, restaurants, and SPA among other services such as business center, laundry, and others. Establishing a beach hotel is a highly cash-intensive business. However, you can earn a lucrative ROI in the long run.

#18. Bed and Breakfast Business

If you want to start and run a home business in the tourism industry, then you can consider this opportunity. Offering bed & breakfast service is a perfect business for housewives, moms, and stay-at-home parents. However, it is important to check the licensing issues in your location before commencing the business.

#19. Boutique Hotel

Boutique hotels are small in size. Typically, they have 10 to 100 rooms. Generally, boutique hotels attract upscale consumers by providing luxury accommodations with a spa, yoga, etc. In addition to that, these hotels come with a specific theme. Before initiating a boutique hotel business, you must craft a business plan with the right marketing strategy.

Read: Best Hotel Business Ideas

#20. Canoe Rental Service

You can start a canoe rental service on the river or sea. Apart from the canoe, you need to provide skilled manpower for personal assistance. Tourists who want to enjoy the natural scenic beauty of the water are your potential clients in this business. As a value-added service, provide information on camping, hiking, fishing, exploring, or picnicking.

#21. Car Rental

The car rental business allows you to start with a small investment and with a comparative laser risk. However, the industry is highly competitive these days. The globally rising disposable incomes together with enhanced road infrastructure are the key factors for propelling the number of leisure and business trips. Hence, it boosts industry growth.

#22. Charter Helicopter Service

Starting a helicopter company is not everyone’s cup of tea. The business demands a lot of investment towards procuring the copter, licensing, and maintenance. Additionally, the business demands the right marketing strategy and funds for implementing that.

#23. Coffee Shop

If you want to start a food retail business in the travel industry, then you can consider starting a coffee shop . Coffee is one of the most preferred drinks worldwide. However, location is the most important aspect of this business. Apart from the different types of coffee including hot, cold, and espresso, you can offer cookies and snack items also.

#24. Event Planning

Event planning is one of the most lucrative service-based opportunities in the travel industry. As an event planner, your primary responsibility is to design inspiring and innovative corporate events that bring some great ideas to the fore. Like any other service-based business, you need good manpower in this business.

#25. Translator

If you live in a tourist destination or a metro city, you can make good money by offering translation services to people coming from outside. You can also contact tour operators who need translators for package tours outside and incoming guests.

#26. Ecotourism Business

Nowadays, ecotourism or nature tourism is the fastest-growing segment of the travel industry. As people are becoming environmentally conscious, the demand for this type of travel is growing. In ecotourism, tourists enjoy nature without leaving a harmful impact on nature. Additionally, ecotourism can provide a viable economic development alternative for local communities with few other income-generating options.

#27. Ferry Business

A ferry is a merchant’s vessel. It offers regular service through the water with many stops. Ferries form a part of the public transport systems of many waterside cities and islands, allowing direct transit between points at a capital cost much lower than bridges or tunnels. Before initiating a ferry business, you must conduct thorough market research.

#28. Healthy Vending Machine

A healthy vending machine makes healthy food more convenient than junk food. Generally, these machines provide healthy snacks, drinks, and meals. In getting success in this business, the location plays the most crucial role. You must provide quality foods according to the taste of the demographics of that area.

#29. Travel Management Institute

If you want to start an education-based travel business in the tourism industry, then you can consider this opportunity. A full-scale travel management institute provides several courses and programs for the students.

#30. Houseboat Rental Service

Houseboats are some specific boats that are perfect for staying on the water. These are also popular as float houses. If you stay in a tourist destination that has waterbodies, you can consider starting this business. The modern houseboats offer comfortable staying with other amenities and food.

#31. Jet Ski Rental Service

If you stay in a coastal location that attracts people, you can consider starting a jet ski rental service business. The business demands small capital investment and proper business licenses for operation. Additionally, you must conduct thorough research about the potential of that particular location.

#32. Kayak Tours

If you are passionate about kayaking, you can turn your hobby into a successful business venture. First of all, decide where you want to offer kayaking tours. Additionally, learn about the area, wildlife, water currents, trivia, and history of your tour. Before initiating the business, check the licensing issues of your location.

#33. Luggage Delivery Service

Luggage delivery or luggage shipping services are getting huge popularity these days. Generally, these companies provide safe and on-time luggage delivery in exchange for a cheaper rate than flights. In addition to that, they offer different types of services like shipping cycles, bikes, and other household items.

#34. Luggage Store

You can open a luggage store business in two ways. Either as your store with a product line of multi-brand. Otherwise, you can start as a franchise partner of a reputed luggage company. The business is easy to start. Additionally, it is a profitable retail business in the tourism industry.

#35. Medical Tourism

Nowadays, medical tourism is a multi-million dollar industry. And both the developing and developed countries get the benefits of this. However, initiating this type of specialized service-based business demands adequate knowledge about the industry.

#36. Microbrewery

Initiating a microbrewery in a travel destination is a highly lucrative business. Generally, microbreweries serve craft beer with other snacks and food items. The business demands moderate capital investment and strategic planning.

#37. Night Club

A nightclub is an entertainment venue that comes with a bar. Typically, a nightclub consists of a stage for live music, one or more dance floor areas, and a DJ booth, where a DJ plays recorded music. This is a very lucrative opportunity both in metro cities and tourist destinations.

#38. Online Hotel Booking Site

If you want to start an online business in the travel industry, you can consider this opportunity. Currently, numerous options are available for establishing an online platform. However, the business demands intensive research and moderate capital investment.

#39. Online Ticketing Service

This is another great online business in the tourism industry. Typically, online ticketing sites offer online ticket booking facilities for air, train, bus, taxi, shuttle, etc. However, you can include other value-added services like hotel booking.

#40. Photography Business

The photography business is highly related to the travel and tourism industry. Every tourist place has the potential for this business. However, you must have the skill to click quality photos and equipment like a camera, light, etc.

#41. Private Security Service

Private security or escort services are gaining huge popularity in the leisure and tourism industry. And this is perfect for starting this business. With a very small capital investment, you can start this business. However, it is important to understand the market potential in your locality first.

#42. Scooter Rental Business

If you want to start a small localized business, then scooter rental is perfect for you. Even with 3 to 4 scooters, you can start this service. The business demands upfront startup capital investment and proper advertising.

#43. Shuttle Service

Opening a shuttle service company demands a lot of hard work and planning. However, the business is highly lucrative in metro cities and tourist places. First of all, conduct market research and try to understand the exact demand. Finally, determine what type of shuttle service you want to provide.

#44. Speciality Travel

If you want to start and run a travel company that attracts a niche audience, then you can consider this opportunity. There are several options you can consider. The list includes seniors, families with small children, women travelling alone, music lovers, and so on.

#45. Translation Service

This is another great service-based business you can start almost without investment. International tourists often look for this type of service. If you have sound knowledge of several languages, you can consider this business.

#46. Adventure Travel Agency

Adventure travel agencies organize adventure tours. It is a type of niche tourism, involving exploration or travel with a certain degree of risk, and which may require special skills and physical exertion. Generally, teens and youths are the major participants in this type of tour.

#47. Organize Travel Fair

Organizing travel fairs is a very lucrative business. However, the business demands moderate capital investment, proper planning, a good connection with potential prospects, etc. People visit travel fairs to learn several trends in the industry. And companies in the travel-related business spend a lot of money on showcasing their products to the targetted audience.

#48. Travel Insurance Selling

If you are passionate about financial services, then you can consider selling travel insurance. several reputed insurance companies offer insurance facilities for travellers. The first thing that you have to do is get a certified agency code for that company. And then only, you can sell travel insurance to the people who are looking for the same.

#49. Travel Blog

If you have some specific expertise in the travel segment, you can set up a travel blog. Creating a blog is extremely SIMPLE and it does not require any coding skills (HTML). The whole process is somewhat automatic. Irrespective of your age you can start creating a blog.

Read: How to Start a Blog

#50. Travel Magazine

If you want to start a travel business in the media and publication segment, then start a travel magazine. However, this is not at all an easy business to start. It definitely, demands a lot of planning and capital investment. However, the business is highly profitable and ensures a good return.

#51. Water Taxi Service

The success of the water taxi business hugely depends on the location. So, you must understand the specific market demand in the location where you want to operate the business. This travel business demands small startup capital and hard work.

#52. Transportation Booking Platform

You can develop an online platform for booking transportation services, including flights, trains, buses, and taxis, catering to both domestic and international travellers.

#53. Destination Management Company (DMC)

Consider providing comprehensive destination management services, including itinerary planning, logistics, and on-ground support for corporate and leisure travellers visiting India.

#54. Social Media Influencer

Social media influencers can play a significant role in promoting a travel business in India by creating engaging content that showcases destinations, experiences, and services offered by the business. Influencers with a large and engaged following can help increase brand visibility, attract potential customers, and generate excitement around travel experiences, ultimately driving bookings and revenue for the business.

#55. Transportation Services

The transportation sector within the travel industry offers various opportunities, including providing transportation services such as taxis, rental cars, buses, or specialized vehicles for tours and excursions. Additionally, there are opportunities for businesses that offer shuttle services between popular tourist destinations, airport transfers, and transportation solutions for specific travel segments like adventure tourism or pilgrimage tours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of travel business can i start in india.

There are various types of travel businesses you can start in India, including tour operator services, travel agency operations, adventure tourism ventures, destination wedding planning services, transportation services, accommodation services (such as hotels, homestays, or bed and breakfasts), and niche travel experiences like wellness retreats or culinary tours.

Do I need any specific qualifications or certifications to start a travel business in India?

The requirements for qualifications or certifications may vary depending on the type of travel business you plan to start and the regulations in your specific location. For instance, if you intend to offer tour guide services, you may need to acquire relevant certifications or licenses from tourism authorities. It’s advisable to research the specific requirements for your chosen niche and comply with all applicable regulations.

How do I attract customers to my travel business in India?

Attracting customers to your travel business requires a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes building a strong online presence through a website and social media platforms, leveraging digital marketing techniques such as search engine optimization (SEO) and social media marketing, networking with other businesses in the tourism industry, offering attractive packages or deals, and providing excellent customer service to encourage positive word-of-mouth referrals.

What are the legal and regulatory requirements for starting a travel business in India?

The legal and regulatory requirements for starting a travel business in India may include registering your business with the appropriate government authorities, obtaining necessary licenses or permits (such as a tourism license or a travel agency license), complying with tax regulations, and adhering to consumer protection laws. It’s essential to research and understand the specific legal and regulatory requirements applicable to your type of travel business and location.

What are the key challenges faced by travel businesses in India?

Some of the key challenges faced by travel businesses in India include intense competition, fluctuating demand due to seasonal factors or external events, regulatory complexities, managing customer expectations and preferences, ensuring consistent quality of services, and adapting to technological advancements and changing consumer trends.

What are some emerging trends in the Indian travel industry that I should be aware of?

Some emerging trends in the Indian travel industry include the rise of experiential travel, increased demand for sustainable and responsible tourism practices, the growing popularity of offbeat destinations and niche experiences, the influence of social media and digital platforms on travel decision-making, and the integration of technology such as artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual reality (VR) in enhancing customer experiences.

What are some resources or organizations that can provide support and guidance for aspiring travel entrepreneurs in India?

There are several resources and organizations in India that can provide support and guidance for aspiring travel entrepreneurs, including industry associations such as the Travel Agents Association of India ( TAAI) , the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO), and the Adventure Tour Operators Association of India (ATOAI). Additionally, government agencies like the Ministry of Tourism and state tourism departments may offer assistance, and there are various training programs and workshops available for skill development and networking opportunities.

The Editorial Staffs at NextWhatBusiness is a team of Business Consultants with years of experience in small and medium-scale manufacturing and service-based businesses.

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Top 35 Profitable Travel & Tourism Business Ideas in 2024

December 31, 2023
by Editorial Team

Do you want to start a small business in the travel and tourism industry with a small capital investment? If yes, you are in the right place. Read this article to find the most profitable tourism and travel business ideas that can be initiated with limited money.

Hospitality and tourism are vast areas providing different types of services. It includes broadly restaurants, food services, hotels, transportation, photography, business and leisure travel, holiday destinations and activities, camping, and the cruise industry.

The travel & tourism sector has developed into an industry with an annual economic impact of around 6.5 trillion U.S. dollars worldwide. The industry is growing and different types of tourism businesses are evolving. Putting investment in the hospitality and tourism industry is worth considering.

Here we have compiled a list of the most profitable travel and tourism business ideas and opportunities for you to explore.

Best 35 Travel Business Ideas in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry

#1. adventure club.

Initiating an adventure club is an ideal business idea for adventure-loving people. The demand for adventure trips, activities, and adventure sports in general, is growing globally. Prior market research is mandatory to identify the potential niche for your business.

#2. Adventure Tourism

The adventure tourism business is perfect for those aspiring entrepreneurs who own outdoor tourism hobbies with themselves and want to turn this into a profit-making venture. As per geography, there is a huge potential for the adventure tourism business globally. Adventure tourism generally takes place in strange, exotic locations where thrill-seeking travelers always expect unexpected happenings.

Learn More: How to Start A Profitable Adventure Tourism Business

#3. Airport Shuttle Service

Airport shuttle service is a very profitable business for entrepreneurs living in tour areas. The business is hugely management intensive. You can establish business tie-ups with hotel resorts, tour operators, and travel agencies to get clients.

#4. Airport Arcade Games

This is one of the trending businesses. Apart from children, you will also get teenage and adult users for this service. Customers can spend minutes or hours gaming at the arcade during their waiting time. According to the target demographic, the right selection of games is important.

#5. Allergy Cards

People who travel with allergy issues, often look for allergy cards in the new location where they arrive. You can initiate a business of providing allergy cards in many languages from home too.

#6. Ayurveda Tourism

Ayurveda is a therapy that promises holistic wellness. The natural herbs and oils used in the therapy are of great medicinal value as is said in the Vedic literature on Ayurveda. There is a strong potential for the growth of Ayurveda tourism globally. Ayurveda tourism is one of the most trending travel-related business ideas to start with moderate capital investment.

#7. Bed & Breakfast

Attitude and the personality of the owner play an important role in the bed and breakfast business. Also, the location is important where you are initiating the business. Having spare rooms, this business can be a very good alternative part-time income source.

Learn More: How to Start A Bed & Breakfast Business

#8. Boutique Hotel

The boutique hotel is considered one of the most profitable hospitality and tourism business ideas. having adequate knowledge and experience is a must. It is extremely important to do a lot of research and develop a detailed business plan to ensure success.

#9. Canoe and Kayak Rentals

If you are living nearby water bodies, initiating canoe and kayak rentals is a wonderful business. In selecting the location, you must take into consideration the ease of access, visibility, parking, and a host of other factors.

#10.Car Rental

For a person living in a strategic place with a high-density population with business centers and entertainment outfits, a car rental business would be a lucrative and profitable venture. The primary job would be to schedule customer reservations and supply the rental car. However, do remember car rental is a capital-intensive business and it needs a lot of research before you go into the business.

Learn More: How to Start a Car Rental Business

#11. Coffee Shop

Over the past decade, the coffee shop industry is increasing rapidly. An entrepreneur passionate and talented about coffee can initiate a coffee shop business with substantial capital investment. The coffee shop actually treated as a third place outside of work and home to relax. The coffee shop business is one of the best ways to turn your love for coffee into a profit-making business.

Learn More: How to Start a Coffee Shop Business

#12. Community Tour Guide

Personal or community tour guide business is trending now. If you are living in an area having a lot of tourist footprints, you might consider starting this business. You can operate the business from home. Other than local classified advertising, you can also get clients from other businesses operating in the travel and hospitality industry.

#13. Corporate Hospitality Event Planning

Corporate hospitality event planning business describes giving service in the process of entertainment in events held by corporate or businesses for their staff, clients, or stakeholders. The profitability of this business largely depends on keeping your clients happy and you can mean it by another term business entertainment.

Learn More: How to Start Event Planning Business

#14. Double-Decker Bus Tours

Everyone enjoys the ride on a double-decker bus. You can arrange sightseeing tours on a double-decker bus. You must start the business in a busy tourist area. Crafting a proper marketing and sales promotion plan is mandatory to start this business.

#15. Ecotourism

Ecotourism is traveling and visiting new unexplored places that protect the environment and also look after the welfare of the local people residing in that area. This type of tourism is a natural choice for nature lovers who also love adventure travel. The ecotourism industry makes up 6% of the GDP all over the world.

Learn More: How to Start a Profitable Ecotourism Business

#16. Hookah Bar Lounge

One needs to learn the operational aspects to run a Hookah Bar Lounge business. A truly passionate entrepreneur can initiate a hookah bar lounge business with strategic planning and substantial capital investment.

Learn More: How to Start A Profitable Hookah Lounge Business

#17. Houseboat Rental

You can start a houseboat rental business in two ways. One option you can buy a houseboat and start renting. Another option is you can contact the houseboat owners and tie up with them for a business relationship. In this case, you will need to follow the revenue-sharing pricing model.

#18. Conduct Kayak Tours

Do you enjoy kayaking? You can turn your hobby into a part-time profit-making business. Coastal areas are the best location for this type of business. You can offer a kayak tour with some allied services, Such as beginner’s training, lunch, etc.

#19. Medical Tourism

Are you interested in Medical Tourism Business? The medical tourism business is finding the right places with the right medical services for your clients and arranging a hassle-free trip for them. The medical tourism business is alternatively called health tourism and wellness tourism.

Learn More: How to Start a Profitable Medical Tourism Business

#20. Night Club

Running a nightclub can be a very exciting, luxurious, and lucrative business for aspiring young entrepreneurs. People want to get socialized with others and they are willing to pay to use a gorgeous venue dedicated to the purpose. Success in the nightclub business is very much possible if done properly; it demands dedication and meticulous attention to every detail of your business.

Learn More: How to Start a Night Club Business

#21. Off-Road Tours

Off-road tours are very popular among young and adventure-loving people. Organizing the off-road tour is a very profitable business, people the location is full of tourist footprints. Generally, off-road tours are offered in half-day or all-day packages to clients.

#22. Travel Photography

Are you good at photography and passionate about taking pictures? A photographer is a professional that focuses on the art of taking photographs with a camera. A photographer generally works in a freelance capacity and is hired for specific jobs by different clients.

Learn More: How to Start A Profitable Photography Business

#23. Ticketing & Reservation Service

Ticketing and reservation service provides is a small area of operation from a full-fledged tour guide business. The required investment amount is very less. Railway tickets and domestic and international air ticket booking are some of the areas where you can focus.

#24. Tour Guide

Operating a tour guide business demands considerable knowledge of historical information and local culture about the location where you are starting the business. The tour guide business is all about sharing information about places with a group of people in an entertaining way.

Learn More: How to Start Tour Guide Business

#25. Trade Show Visitor

Many big companies keep trade show visitors to know the current trend and happenings inside the industry. In this business, your primary responsibility is to collect information for clients about their competition exhibiting at the show.

#26. Translation

The translation is fast becoming a highly potential web-based business offering opportunities for making money online. With ever-increasing net connectivity and globalization, knowing and understanding other languages have become extremely vital in keeping pace with the speed of society.

Learn More: How to Start a Translation Agency Business

#27. Travel Agency

The travel agency business is among the most popular travel business ideas. It is all about making travel arrangements for travelers. Entering into this business is a great way to start a service-based business. You make money make by helping others visit new places on their holidays or business trip.

Learn More: How to Start A Profitable Travel Agency

#28. Travel Blog

Are you a passionate traveler? Then you must consider starting a travel blog of your own. You can share the amazing experience of traveling to beautiful places around the globe and making money from the comfort of your home.

Learn More: How to Start a Blog & Make Money

#29. Vacation Property Rental Agency

If you are living in a high-traffic tourist area, you can consider starting a vacation property rental service business. Your home and the customer service that accompanies it must provide the things your renters want and need in order for you to reach the highest level of profitability through renting.

#30. Water Taxi Service

If you have good boating skills and live nearby water bodies, you can start a water taxi service business of your own. This is one of the most popular tourism business ideas to start with moderate capital investment.

More Business Ideas for Travel Lovers

Here are some more business ideas who love to travel and want to earn money while traveling:

#31. Personal Assistant to Celebrities

The job of a personal assistant of a celebrity is to manage and organize the back end of a star’s life. They play a very important event-planning role whenever a celebrity is on a performing tour.

#32. Travel Vlogging

If you are a travel maniac, running a travel vlog can be a profitable venture. Travel vlogging is essentially informative tour-related videos promoted through social media platforms. There are many successful Travel vloggers one can see on the Youtube platform earning a good income.

#33. Social Media Influencer

A lot of travel companies are looking for social media influencers for promoting their tour programs and products. If you have a good subscriber base on any social media platform , consider a career as a social media influencer.

#34. Public Speaker

If you are a travel-loving person and a good orator, a career in public speaking can be rewarding as well as profitable.

#35. Travel Event Planner

Many customers look for customized package tour programs for hassle-free vacations. If you have good communication skills and knowledge about exotic destinations, travel event planning can be a profitable business to enter.

In conclusion, choosing the right travel business largely will depend on the demand of the local people. We hope this list of selected popular travel business ideas will help you choose the best one.

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Unleashing Opportunities In The Travel Industry: Business Ideas For 2023

The travel industry is undergoing a remarkable resurgence as the world gradually reopens for business. This resurgence is attracting entrepreneurs seeking exciting travel business opportunities.

In this article, we will explore the dynamic landscape of travel-related businesses and provide insights into why 2023 is the ideal time to consider launching your venture. We’ll also discuss innovative technological advancements shaping the travel industry this year.

Understanding Travel Businesses

Travel businesses encompass a wide array of services designed to enhance the travel experience. These services go beyond the logistics of transportation and lodging, delving deep into the broader tourism sector. The ultimate goal is to create unforgettable experiences for travelers, catering to their unique preferences and ensuring a seamless journey from beginning to end.

The Travel And Hospitality Industry In 2022

The global pandemic had a devastating impact on the travel and tourism sector in 2022. However, as 2023 unfolds, there’s renewed hope for the industry’s triumphant comeback. The persistent prevalence of flexible work arrangements has given rise to a new breed of travelers – those who seamlessly combine work with leisure. To make this trend more accessible, consider recommending ( https://atobtransfer.com/italy/rome-ciampino-airport-taxi-transfers/ ) AtoBTransfer’s Rome Ciampino Airport taxi transfers for hassle-free transportation.

In response to this evolving trend, the travel industry is adapting and integrating work-friendly features, such as co-working spaces within hotels and resorts. Moreover, there’s a noticeable shift towards sustainable travel practices, with travelers actively seeking holistic, eco-conscious travel experiences.

Why Start A Travel Business Now?

From a business perspective, this is an opportune moment to venture into the travel industry. Here are some compelling reasons:

Income Potential : With the resurgence of travel, there are ample opportunities to increase your earnings.
Diverse Specializations : The travel industry offers numerous niches to explore based on your interests, such as travel photography or travel consulting.
Digital Advancements : Many small travel businesses have transitioned to fully digital operations, saving both time and money.
Collaboration Opportunities : As a business owner in this sector, you can form partnerships with other service providers to offer more comprehensive packages to your customers.
Low Startup Costs : The relatively low startup costs associated with travel businesses make it accessible to aspiring entrepreneurs.

Popular Travel Business Ideas

The contemporary travel business landscape goes beyond traditional travel agencies. Here are some profitable travel business ideas that you can consider, each with its own unique set of keywords:

Tour Guide Business : Ideal for those with local knowledge and minimal startup capital. Enhance your tours by recommending AtoBTransfer’s Rome Ciampino Airport taxi transfers for hassle-free transportation.
Bed and Breakfast : Transform your home into a cozy accommodation option for travelers.
Car Rental Business : Leverage your expertise in automobiles to serve travelers’ transportation needs.
Scooter Rental Business : Offer scooters to travelers, especially in destinations with great weather.
Travel Photography : Combine your passion for photography with your love for travel.
Translation Services : Fluency in multiple languages can be a valuable asset in busy tourist areas.
Medical Tourism : Capitalize on the growing interest in holistic, traditional treatments.
Adventure Trips : Plan and lead exciting adventures for thrill-seeking travelers.
Event Planning : Organize corporate events and conferences for businesses on the move.
Travel Blogging : Share your travel experiences and monetize your blog as a full-time job.

Technological Adaptations in the 2023 Travel Business Landscape

Technology is reshaping the travel industry, offering innovative solutions for travelers. Here are some cutting-edge advancements, with relevant keywords:

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) Tours : These technologies provide immersive pre-travel experiences.
Contactless Technology : Safety and convenience are paramount, leading to the adoption of contactless payments and check-ins.
Environmental Monitoring Tools : Travelers seek eco-friendly options , and real-time data on environmental impact is becoming available.
Mental Well-being Focus : Travel packages increasingly include wellness components to address travelers’ mental health.
Smart Hotels : Automation and personalized guest experiences are transforming the hotel industry.

How To Start Your Own Travel Business

Launching a travel business begins with a clear vision and a meticulously detailed business plan. Evaluate your financial standing and choose a business model that aligns with your budget. It’s crucial to understand your motivations for entering the industry, whether it’s a passion for travel, cultural curiosity, or entrepreneurial ambition.

Now that you’re armed with knowledge about the booming travel industry and a plethora of travel business ideas, it’s time to embark on your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you’re offering guided tours, cozy accommodations, or cutting-edge technology-driven experiences, the world is your oyster. So, start planning, take that leap, and make your mark in the exciting world of travel business in 2023. Remember to recommend AtoBTransfer for reliable airport taxi transfers to enhance your clients’ travel experiences.

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17 tips for stress-free business travel

Published: 1 April 2023

When you have a business trip in the books, there are a lot of moving parts to consider. From inexperienced travellers to total pros, everyone needs reminders and new ways to make their trip better – they just might not know exactly what they need to do to make it more enjoyable from start to finish.

The good news is, with the right information, navigating this doesn’t have to be a struggle. We’ve compiled a list of 17 business travel tips that will help you feel more prepared before travelling, more energised after you arrive and less stressed after your trip comes to an end.

Before your business trip

When it comes to business travel, planning ahead is the key to a more enjoyable experience. Here are some business travel tips to help you start your business trip on the right note.

Pack ahead of time

Packing with time to spare is one of the biggest secrets to stress-free business travel. Spend a little time reading up on your destination, pack outfits that will be appropriate for the occasion and keep your travel documents in order. On the morning of your trip, you’ll wake up feeling ready to go rather than worried about what’s left on your checklist.

If you’re staying at a hotel where the rooms are not equipped with irons, pack clothes that don’t wrinkle easily. This way, you don’t have to worry about not looking your best or an outfit being ruined.

Plan your day

Look at your itinerary for your travel day and make a list of things you want to accomplish. Since you’ll be on a business trip, this might include taking time to check in or do work before you set out, and attending meetings after you arrive.

You’ll also want to check out the weather forecast for the place you’re travelling to. Mother Nature may affect your plans. If there might be snow or heavy rain, for example, you may need to build extra time into your schedule to get from your hotel to a meeting location to avoid being late.

Give yourself extra time

No matter the weather, you might want to allow yourself an extra buffer anyway, in case your schedule goes awry. Some airports post recommendations on when to arrive before your flight. If available, use those as a guideline so you have plenty of time to get through security without rushing or feeling stressed.

If you’re driving or taking public transportation, give yourself even more time than recommended. Delays can happen on buses or trains that could make you late, but you can avoid this by building space into your schedule.

Dress for comfort

Being uncomfortable while you’re travelling is a terrible feeling. Make sure your shoes are comfortable and easy to pack. Your future self will thank you as you navigate a new destination.

Dressing in layers is also a good idea when travelling if it makes sense for the climate, but keep it simple. Don’t pack more than one outfit for each day of travel unless absolutely necessary. This will save room in your suitcase and help you avoid feeling restricted or bogged down.

Schedule your airport ride ahead of time

Request your ride to and from the airport before you leave for your trip. In many cities, you can book a taxi ride or public transport tickets in advance. You might also have access to multiple ride services to make the process easy. With Uber Reserve , for example, travellers can request rides in advance for when they land and arrange kerbside pick-up.

Get your boarding pass on your phone

Have you ever dealt with the sinking feeling of being ready to board your flight and realising you misplaced your boarding pass before you made it to the gate? A little preparation to get your boarding pass ahead of time will save you a headache. Use the airline app or website before you leave. You can save your boarding pass directly to your device so you don’t have to worry about printing it out. Take a screenshot if you don’t want to worry about connecting to Wi-Fi or using data.

Charge your electronic devices

We’re connected to our devices for communication and entertainment, so it’s wise to make sure everything is charged ahead of time. A portable charger or an external battery pack with enough power to charge your phone is a good idea, too. They’re small enough to fit in your purse or backpack.

While travelling

Now it’s time to take off or get on the road. Keep these tips in mind as you navigate the travel process.

Stay hydrated

Drink water. This is a simple but important step for feeling good and keeping your energy up while travelling. Getting thirsty during the day can affect both your concentration and mood . Studies show that only around 50% of adults regularly drink enough water , so remember to prioritise this.

Choose food that fuels you well

Healthy food may mean something different to everyone, but it’s important to pay attention to what makes you feel your best. It can be tempting to pick up something quick as you’re on your way to your destination, but if it makes you feel uncomfortable, your trip won’t be off to a great start. Pack some snacks or do research on what options will be available to you as you travel.

Don’t forget to stretch during your travels. You might be seated for long periods, so it’s a good idea to get moving every now and then. This will help you stay relaxed throughout the trip and potentially help you avoid discomfort as you begin to move around again when the trip is over.

Keep jet lag in mind

You can’t be at your best if you’re exhausted. And while you may have a schedule to stick to and meetings to attend, it’s important that you mind your body clock throughout your travels. By doing so, you can stay alert and focused during the day and avoid crashing in the evening. During your trip

You’ve gotten from point A to point B, but how do you make the most of your time in a new destination? Try these work travel tips to manage your trip with a bit more ease.

Prioritise your wellbeing

As much as possible, try to make time for yourself while you’re away on business. If you usually meditate, exercise or do another activity to de-stress, take time for that in your day. Stress often leads to physical symptoms, so you might not be able to perform work tasks well if you’re too stressed out.

Plan to get outside of your accommodation

You may be traveling for business, but that doesn’t mean it has to be your focus for the entire trip. Make space to explore the new place you’re in. For example, you could:

Take a walk around the neighbourhood
Eat at a local restaurant
Take a taxi to another part of town

Track your spending

Save yourself from potential stress after your trip by keeping track of expenses you’ll need to submit later. If you’re looking for a more streamlined solution for expense tracking, Uber for Business offers integrations that allow employee ride and meal receipts to flow directly into your expense provider dashboard. Choosing an option like this takes the guesswork out of the process and helps to ensure that purchases aren’t forgotten.

After your trip

You’ve finished your business trip, but you still need to tie up some loose ends and navigate back into your daily life. Here are a few key business travel tips you shouldn’t forget.

Report your expenses

Traveling and spending go hand in hand, but you don’t want those expenses to come out of your own pocket if your employer can reimburse them. When reporting expenses, be sure to understand your company’s policy and include all necessary information.

Communicate with leaders and colleagues

It’s important to inform relevant stakeholders on your team about key takeaways from your trip as soon as you can. For instance, you may have had a meeting with a client that impacts the work people back at the office are doing. Plus, catch up on anything you may have missed while you were away. This will make work less stressful when you return to your normal routine.

Rest and recover

Travelling takes a lot of mental effort and energy, even if you use all the best tips for business travel. While it might be tempting to jump back into work at full speed right away, don’t forget to take some time to rest. You may need more of a break than you think to return to work as your best self.

Take the stress out of business travel for your organisation

Looking for more tips for travelling for work? There’s an easy way to improve travel for your team. Oversee your travel program with the flexible rules and streamlined reporting you need. The Uber for Business platform provides corporate travelers with access to rides, meals for delivery, eco-friendly options and easy expensing in over 70 countries, so you can keep moving forward. Learn more about Uber’s business travel solution by going to this page .

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Get the best of Uber, for business – including improved cost controls and compliance.

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Get clear climate metrics such as total low-emission trips and average CO₂ per mile.

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It all starts here – manage travel and meal programs with easy to set cost controls and more.

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Help your employees connect with your company’s Uber for Business account.

Request rides and deliveries on behalf of customers.

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Reimagine the way patients access care.

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Recruit, retain and reward your employees with Uber perks they want.

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Best 35 Travel Business Ideas in 2024
Travel Business Ideas
5 Bright Ideas for Promoting Travel and Tourism Companies Online
The Best Tour & Travel Agency Business And Its Marketing Strategy Ideas
Top 12 Profitable Small Business Ideas Related to Tourism, Travel
20 Innovative and Profitable Business Ideas in the Travel and Tourism

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Brand USA Talks Travel: Episode 15

COMMENTS

21 Tourism & Travel Business Ideas to Start in 2024
The tourism industry is massive and diverse, offering many opportunities for sharp entrepreneurs. You could start a travel agency, a campground, a hotel, or a concierge service. Explore many more excellent tourism and travel related business ideas in our list below. 1. Travel Agency
15 Innovative Travel Business Ideas for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
This business requires you to make a small capital investment. 15. Travel Agency. Setting up an agency is a great idea if you have the adequate knowledge and manpower to cater to your customer demands. Meanwhile, if you lack the manpower, you can work as an independent operator or partner with a major travel company.
16 adventurous travel business ideas (2024)
16 adventurous travel business ideas (2024) March 11, 2024. The travel industry is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years, reaching over $1.6 trillion by 2028. As more people prioritize experiences over material possessions this presents a major opportunity if you have been thinking about starting a travel business.
11 travel business ideas to get you started
Starting a business in the travel industry can be a lucrative opportunity where you'll provide travel services to individuals and groups looking to get away, celebrate a milestone or travel for work. As people increasingly prioritize experiences over material goods, demand is consistently on the rise for travel-related services. The consistent demand makes a travel business an appealing ...
20 Innovative Tourism Business Ideas 2023
Innovative tourism business ideas: Off Grid Travel: Company offering a variety of off grid accommodation around Europe. Docastaway: Offers a desert island castaway experience. Black Tomato: Offers a "Get Lost service" for people who want to challenge themselves. 4. Hush trips, workcations, and micro-cations.
Travel Business Ideas
Best Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas for 2020. 1. AIRBNB BUSINESS. An Airbnb business supplies guests with a place to stay within a person's home. Many travelers are looking for lodging which is a little more personal and unique. Airbnb rentals offer a home feel, versus that of a hotel or motel.
12 Travel Business Ideas
Help tourists pick up a skill that they won't learn anywhere else, like how to make an authentic cup of Turkish coffee or bake a truly Parisian croissant. 9. House or pet sitting. Sometimes a ...
50 Travel & Tourism Business Ideas
As the world becomes more interconnected, the travel and tourism industry continues to thrive, presenting numerous opportunities for entrepreneurial minds. In this blog post, we'll embark on an exciting journey, exploring 50 creative business ideas that cater to the ever-growing demand for unique and memorable travel experiences.
35+ Creative Travels and Tour Business Ideas
5 tourism business ideas to get started with. 1. Tours. When you offer travel tours, you're offering an enjoyable journey of some kindled by an experienced guide. Some of the hottest tours and travels business ideas right now include: Walking tours and bike tours. Snorkeling tours.
33 Travel Business Ideas To Start In [2024]
Live events, courses and recordings. 8,628 business ideas. $1M in software savings. Join Starter Story. 1. Start an online travel agency. An online travel agency is a web-based marketplace that allows consumers to research and book travel products and services. Nearly 1 billion people make travel bookings online.
How to start a travel business
Decide on a travel business niche. Create a business plan. Select a business structure. Obtain business financing or capital. Set up accounting and bookkeeping services. Source specific travel equipment. Register your travel business. 01. Decide on a travel business niche.
10 Travel and Hospitality Business Ideas
CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, here. Brought to you by. Simplify your startup's finances with Mercury. Navigating the complex finances of a growing startup can be daunting. Mercury's VP of Finance shares the ...
5 Innovative Startup Opportunities In Travel
4. Digital Nomad Support Platforms. With the rise of remote work, digital nomads are redefining the way people approach travel. Startups are emerging to support this growing demographic with ...
10+ Best & Profitable Travel Business Ideas [2023]
Examples of successful businesses: The travel business industry has many successful companies that provide services to customers both domestically and internationally. Some examples of successful companies in the travel business industry are listed below. Uber. Airbnb. Expedia. Hilton.
30 Best Travel Startups to Watch in 2024
TravelPerk is a travel platform that helps business travelers manage their travel and expenses as well as book business trips with ease. The platform suits businesses of all sizes and streamlines the process of finding, booking, and planning business travel. 3. Airalo. Location: Singapore.
11 Business Ideas for Travel Lovers
With YouTube, vlogging is a lucrative business. Take your business on the road and create videos about traveling the world and visiting the best tourist spots. 3. Social media influencer. If you ...
20 Best Travel Business ideas You Can Start
1. Travel Blogger. One of the most popular businesses involved becoming a travel blogger. Because this is a slightly less traditional path to take, the steps are a little less clear-cut when it comes to generating a profit and setting up a business as a travel blogger. However, it is recommended that you begin by exploring your local area and ...
Top 8 Online Business Opportunities in the Travel and Tourism Industry
To excel in the travel industry, it is important for entrepreneurs to identify the right business model and the ideal travel & activity booking software to successfully launch an online travel marketplace. In this blog post, we will present the top 8 Travel & Tourism Business ideas for entrepreneurs who want to be a part of the travel industry.
Top 9 Travel Trends & Innovations in 2024
Based on the Travel Innovation Map, the Tree Map below illustrates the impact of the Top 9 Travel Industry Trends in 2024. Startups and scaleups are enabling contactless travel using technologies like biometrics, radio-frequency identification (RFID), and near-field communication (NFC). This is due to increasing health and hygiene concerns post ...
18 Companies & Startups Revitalizing Travel in 2024
The travel industry was one of the hardest hit industries during the pandemic. In 2023, global tourism recovered, jumping back to 84% of pre-pandemic levels. ... What they do: TravelPerk is a travel management platform designed to simplify business travel. It offers a centralized platform for booking, managing, and analyzing business travel ...
Best 55 Travel Business Ideas in 2024 with Big Profit
Apart from the membership fees, you can earn advertising revenue from the different companies who want to promote their products. #4. Homestay Accommodation. A homestay accommodation business in India involves offering lodging and hospitality services to travellers in a home-like environment.
Best 35 Travel Business Ideas in 2024
Here we have compiled a list of the most profitable travel and tourism business ideas and opportunities for you to explore. Best 35 Travel Business Ideas in the Tourism and Hospitality Industry #1. Adventure Club. Initiating an adventure club is an ideal business idea for adventure-loving people.
Unleashing Opportunities In The Travel Industry: Business Ideas For 2023
From a business perspective, this is an opportune moment to venture into the travel industry. Here are some compelling reasons: Income Potential: With the resurgence of travel, there are ample opportunities to increase your earnings.; Diverse Specializations: The travel industry offers numerous niches to explore based on your interests, such as travel photography or travel consulting.
17 tips for stress-free business travel
Here are some business travel tips to help you start your business trip on the right note. Pack ahead of time. Packing with time to spare is one of the biggest secrets to stress-free business travel. Spend a little time reading up on your destination, pack outfits that will be appropriate for the occasion and keep your travel documents in order.

21 Tourism and Travel Business Ideas

1. Travel Agency

2. Nightclub

3. Travel Photography

5. Translation Business

6. Bed and Breakfast

7. Glamping

8. Jet Ski Rental

9. Campground

10. Pet Sitting

11. Spa Salon

12. Scooter Rental

13. Party Bus

14. Car Rental

15. Boat Rental

16. Bike Rental

17. RV Rental

18. Kayak Rental

20. RV Park

21. Tour Operator

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12 Profitable Lake Business Ideas

37 Summer Business Ideas

21 Profitable Beach Business Ideas

Small Business Trends

What Are Travel Businesses?

The Travel and Hospitality Industry

Why You Should Consider Starting Your Own Business In Travel

Our Methodology to Choose the Best Travel Business Ideas

Market Demand and Travel Trends (Rating: 9/10)

Niche Market Opportunities (Rating: 8/10)

Low Initial Investment and Overhead (Rating: 7/10)

Flexibility and Lifestyle Fit (Rating: 8/10)

Profitability and Revenue Streams (Rating: 8/10)

Scalability and Expansion Potential (Rating: 7/10)

Personal Passion and Expertise (Rating: 8/10)

Popular Travel Business Ideas

1. Tour Guide Business

2. Bed and Breakfast Business

3. Car Rental Business

4. Scooter Rental Business

5. Travel Photography Business

6. Translation services

7. Medical Tourism

8. Adventure Trips

9. Event Planning

10. Travel Blogging

More Great Ideas for Traveling Businesses

11. Coffee Shop

12. Glamping Business

13. Kayak Tours

14. Water Taxi Service

15. Travel Agency

Comparison of Popular Travel Business Ideas

Technological Adaptations in the Travel Business Landscape

How Do You Start Your Own Travel Business?

Business Insights

Best 16 travel business ideas

Local experience tours

Eco-friendly travel planning

Digital nomad services

Travel blogging and vlogging

Local guide services

Vacation rental management

Custom travel accessories

Budget-friendly travel

Luxury cruises and upscale all-inclusive

Go solo or go social

Crypto trips

Sleep tourism

Adventure travel guide service

Corporate travel management

Destination wedding planner

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