Latest news with #InternationalTravel
Skift
13 hours ago
- Business
- Skift
China's Outbound Travel Is Now Being Driven by These Five Categories
Chinese travellers are coming back, albeit differently. The way they plan, what they care about, and what they expect has shifted. And that means destinations, hotels, and retailers need to shift with them. China's outbound tourism is back in full swing, but the real shift is in why people are travelling and how they're deciding where to go, what to book, and what to buy. According to China Trading Desk's second quarter survey, releasing this Wednesday, traditional marketing categories like age and income are no longer the main drivers. Instead, China Trading Desk has developed what it calls the Five Economies Framework, a way to understand what travelers are seeking from their trips: Confidence Economy: First-timers who need clarity and support Value Economy: People spending carefully but still wanting comfort She Economy: Young female Gen Z travelers shaping trends Emotional Economy: Travelers looking for meaning and memories Silver Economy: Older, confident travelers with time and money Source: China Trading Desk First-Timers Want Guidance, Not Guesswork A record 44% of Chinese travelers are going abroad for the first time, up from 38% just last quarter. Many are under 30, and women are especially well represented. These travelers are cautious but curious. While they might be new to international travel, they're far from clueless. These first-time travelers are heavy users of social media platforms, Douyin and Xiaohongshu. They rely on short videos, visual guides, and peer reviews, Subramania Bhatt, CEO of China Trading Desk told Skift. They want simplicity, structure, and reassurance, according to the survey. While first-timers are booking mostly 3- to 4-star hotels, they're also more likely to plan their shopping before booking flights. Travelers Want 'Luxury With Logic' Many Chinese travelers, especially those from Tier 1 cities, are travelling with what Bhatt calls a 'luxury with logic' mindset. They're not throwing money around, but they're willing to spend if the value is clear. 'Gen Z and Tier 1 travelers are selective spenders,' he said. 'They crave value, story, and social capital.' That means flash sales, first-timer bundles, and travel perks that are easy to understand. Limited-time product drops, sustainability labels, and collaborations with Xiaohongshu creators could help brands connect with these travelers, according to Bhatt. Nearly half of all surveyed travelers plan to spend more than 25,000 RMB per trip (not including flights and hotels), and spending on luxury items is growing, especially among Gen Z and Tier 3 travelers. Young Women Are Leading the Shift Young, urban women, many of them Gen Z, are at the forefront of China's outbound travel recovery. According to the survey, they're tech-savvy, often travelling independently, and influenced heavily by social media. They rely on Xiaohongshu not just for travel inspiration but for social proof and tips they can trust. These women aren't passively scrolling; they're comparing, researching, and actively shaping travel trends. Most book less than a month in advance, some within just two weeks, but they start researching much earlier. 'The booking window is short, but the consideration window starts much earlier,' said Bhatt. Travel Is About Meaning While budgets matter, travelers are also seeking emotional returns. Around 22% of survey respondents named food, nature, and culture as equal motivations, showing a preference for rich, meaningful experiences over just sightseeing. These travelers value curated experiences, and small-groups. Bhatt advises travel companies to think less about mass-market tours and more about memory-building activities that help people feel connected. Older Travelers Want Safety and Comfort Older Chinese travelers are travelling more confidently in 2025. They tend to book longer trips, prioritize safety and comfort, and prefer destinations with good health infrastructure and reliable service. China Trading Desk suggests offering accessible travel, bilingual support, guided activities, and wellness packages. This group is less impulsive, as they prefer safety, comfort, and clarity over spontaneity. Same Platforms, Different Needs Though Xiaohongshu, Douyin, and Ctrip are used widely across age groups, their role in the travel journey varies. 'Xiaohongshu builds trust, Douyin drives impulse, and Ctrip closes the sale,' Bhatt said. This platform split helps explain why brands can't take a one-size-fits-all approach. A shopping guide that works on Xiaohongshu may fall flat on Douyin, and vice versa. Singapore, Japan, and Korea Stay on Top While Chinese travelers have changed significantly, the top-visited destinations remain the same: Singapore, Japan, and South Korea. But what keeps them on top isn't just culture or food, it's digital visibility and ease of travel. Source: China Trading Desk 'Their enduring appeal is a mix of perceived safety, travel ease, and constant digital visibility,' said Bhatt. While breaking down the popularity of these destinations, Bhatt said that for instance, Singapore is known for cashless payments, strong airport services, and high compatibility with digital payment services like Alipay. Japan benefits from viral content like '7-Eleven must buys' and cultural dept, while South Korea rides the wave of K-pop, K-drama, and shopping infrastructure. Faster immigration clearance is also on top of the airport services wishlist for Chinese travelers. and Dragon Trail Executives at the Skift Asia Forum
Geeky Gadgets
11-06-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Summer 2025: Your Essential Apple Travel Gear Guide
Planning your summer 2025 travels? Equipping yourself with the right Apple gear can significantly enhance your journey, making sure you remain connected, organized, and stress-free. Whether you're navigating crowded airports, exploring remote destinations, or capturing unforgettable moments, Apple-compatible accessories can elevate your travel experience. The video below from Stephen Robles highlights the essential gear to consider for your next adventure. Watch this video on YouTube. Power Solutions: Keep Your Devices Charged Making sure your devices stay charged is critical when traveling, as they often serve as your map, communication tool, and entertainment hub. Portable chargers, such as high-capacity power banks, are indispensable for long flights, road trips, or days spent exploring. Opt for models that support fast charging and Apple's MagSafe technology for added convenience and efficiency. Apple's USB-C power adapters are another excellent choice, especially for international travel. These compact and lightweight adapters provide reliable charging while occupying minimal space in your luggage. For travelers visiting multiple countries, consider a universal adapter that supports various plug types. With the right power solutions, you can avoid the frustration of dead batteries and stay connected no matter where your journey takes you. AirTags: Track and Secure Your Belongings Misplaced luggage or lost items can disrupt even the most carefully planned trips. Apple's AirTags offer a simple yet effective way to keep track of your belongings. Attach an AirTag to your suitcase, backpack, or keys, and use the Find My app to locate them in real time. The precision tracking feature and audible alerts make it easy to recover items, whether they're across the airport or hidden in your hotel room. To enhance durability, pair your AirTags with protective keychains or holders designed to withstand the rigors of travel. These accessories not only safeguard your AirTags but also ensure they remain securely attached to your belongings. With AirTags, you can travel confidently, knowing your essentials are always within reach. Travel Accessories: Optimize Your Journey The right travel accessories can make a significant difference in your overall experience. Noise-canceling AirPods Pro are ideal for blocking out distractions during flights or train rides, allowing you to enjoy music, podcasts, or audiobooks in peace. For Apple Watch users, compact chargers ensure your device stays powered, allowing you to track your activity, monitor your health, and stay on schedule. Multi-port travel hubs and adapters are invaluable for managing multiple devices. These tools allow you to charge and connect your gadgets seamlessly, whether you're working remotely or organizing photos from your trip. If you're a photography enthusiast, consider investing in portable tripods or gimbals compatible with iPhones to capture stunning, steady shots of your adventures. For added convenience, Apple's MagSafe wallets or cardholders can help you keep your essentials organized and easily accessible. These accessories attach securely to your iPhone, combining functionality with sleek design. Device Protection: Guard Against Damage Travel can expose your devices to potential damage, making protective cases and covers essential. Rugged cases with shock-absorbing materials are ideal for shielding your iPhone or iPad from accidental drops and impacts. If your plans include outdoor adventures or beach days, waterproof cases provide an extra layer of protection against water damage. For MacBooks, consider slim yet durable sleeves that offer a balance of protection and portability. These sleeves safeguard your laptop from scratches and minor impacts without adding unnecessary bulk to your luggage. Investing in high-quality protective gear can save you from costly repairs and ensure your devices remain in excellent condition throughout your trip. Connectivity: Stay Online and Synced Reliable internet access is essential for staying connected while traveling. Portable Wi-Fi hotspots or eSIM solutions provide consistent connectivity, even in remote areas. These tools are particularly useful for navigating unfamiliar locations, staying in touch with loved ones, or working on the go. Before embarking on your trip, update your devices with the latest software and back up your data to iCloud. Apple's Continuity features, such as Handoff and Universal Clipboard, enable seamless transitions between devices, making multitasking more efficient. Additionally, downloading offline maps and travel apps can help you navigate without relying solely on internet access. With the right connectivity tools, you can stay productive and in touch, no matter where your travels take you. Travel Smarter with Apple Gear By equipping yourself with the right Apple travel gear, you can make your summer 2025 adventures smoother, more organized, and enjoyable. From portable power solutions and AirTags for tracking to protective cases and connectivity tools, these essentials ensure your devices remain functional and secure. Investing in the right accessories allows you to navigate your journey with confidence, convenience, and ease, making sure every moment of your trip is as seamless as possible. Unlock more potential in Apple travel gear by reading previous articles we have written. Source & Image Credit: Stephen Robles Filed Under: Apple, Guides, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
