Travel Technology in a Post-COVID World
The effects of the worldwide virus outbreak and widespread lockdown have plunged the global economy into a crisis. The US economy was predicted to contract by 6.1% this year, while the worldwide economy was forecasted to shrink by 5.2%.
This makes the current economic climate worse than that of the recession that occurred during World War II. Recessions are characterized by several key factors, such as a decline in personal income, massive unemployment, and a fall in wholesale and retail sales volume. These, in turn, have a rebounding effect on sectors like travel.
The travel industry depends on other sectors, such as hospitality, retail, and food. And if those industries are forced to shut down, it will be harder for the state of travel to get back on track.
Luckily, recent technological innovations have allowed the travel industry to bounce back and continue its operations.
In this article, we’ll be listing five new kinds of technology that are being utilized by the travel industry in the post-COVID world:
Contactless Technology
To lessen unnecessary contact, more and more contactless devices are being implemented in daily operations. For instance, contactless payments are now the preferred mode of payment. It’s safer than exchanging bills and is also more convenient.
Other examples of contactless technology include contactless doors, elevators, and even remote access applications.
The last item is handy for hotel-goers who want to turn the lights or television off in their room without having to touch any surfaces.
Compliance Monitoring Technology
Tourists and locals alike have to do their part to prevent the spread of the virus. To ensure this, institutions are incorporating compliance monitoring devices into their facilities. One such example is a facial recognition engine that can pinpoint whether an individual is wearing a mask.
There’s also the use of thermal cameras, which take individuals’ temperatures before they enter a facility.
Location detection services are also beneficial in contact tracing efforts. When a person tests positive, tracking services help map out their route and pinpoint the number of people they came into contact with.
Disinfection and Sterilization Technology
Disinfectant sprays and air purifiers are being implemented into heavy-duty cleaning devices to kill any airborne pathogens quickly. These are useful for hospitals, hotels, and restaurants.
In addition to this, more and more people have been purchasing cleaning robots.
Firms, in particular, are utilizing them to cut labor costs. And since most cleaning robots can only clean floors, human cleaning crews can devote more time to disinfecting high-touch surfaces, like doorknobs, elevator buttons, and light switches.
Improved Online Sales & Marketing for Travel Companies
With the arrival of the “new normal,” travel and tourism companies have had to shift their marketing strategies. This can include changes to their search engine optimization tactics, changes in their packages to ensure the highest level of customer safety, and increased flexibility in rebooking and rescheduling.
Such a shift would require a lot of research and recalibrations of company software.
This is why we are offering a complete online booking system package for travel agencies to help them in their post-COVID recovery, so be sure to check it out!
VR Travel
Finally, multiple tourist destinations are offering an alternative to traveling overseas. Those stuck at home with the travel bug can opt to experience some of the world’s most famous tourist destinations using virtual reality technology.
Museums, nature parks, and other attractions are offering 360-degree experiences that will, hopefully, entice people to pay a visit once the pandemic is over.
For travel technology solutions and consultations, connect with us. We can help travel and hospitality institutions plan their travel distribution and marketing strategies. With help from our cutting-edge technology, you’re sure to stay ahead of the curve.
Author: Allie Cooper
