Expedia’s latest Traveler Value Index shows travel demand is surging—88% of consumers plan a leisure trip in the next year, up from 79% in 2022, and 51% are increasing their travel budgets. Price remains the top factor, but travelers are redefining “value,” prioritizing reviews, flexibility, and quality over just the lowest cost. Younger travelers lead the shift, with 80% willing to pay more for better-reviewed hotels and 79% for top-rated vacation rentals.
When booking, consumers ranked the following factors as most important:
- Price
- Ability to get a full refund on canceled bookings
- Enhanced cleaning
- Contactless experiences throughout the trip
- Reviews from other travelers (new for 2025)
For travelers under 40, reviews actually outweigh price when choosing hotels, vacation rentals, tours, or cruises.
- 80% would pay more for a hotel with better reviews
- 79% would pay more for a vacation rental with better reviews
- 75% would pay more for a vacation rental with excellent reviews, and 24% would pay significantly more
Flexibility Still Rules
Even as travel demand grows, economic uncertainty means travelers want options. Refundable bookings remain a major priority—25% of respondents would pay significantly more for the ability to cancel without penalty.
Bottom Line: Travelers in 2025 are spending more, traveling more often, and demanding more from their trips—placing a premium not just on price, but on trust, quality, and peace of mind.
