Has the digital nomad impacted summer travel trends?

After summer vacations were canceled last year, this year’s summer travel trends seem to be impacted by several factors. One beneficial change from the past year is the influence of the digital nomad. While that phrase might not roll off the tip of your tongue, the reality is that it might be time to pack the bags and get out of the house.

Recently. American Express announced its 2021 travel trend report. The findings discuss topics like summer travel trends, the desire to travel, the willingness to travel, luxury travel, and eco-conscious travel. But, one aspect of the report could impact the travel conversation for a long time, the digital nomad.

Although that phrase might not be part of the vernacular, it is a concept that people have adapted in the past year. With many people working from home, the idea of working from anywhere has a great appeal. No one is tied to a specific workspace.

As stated in the American Express report, the ability to work from anywhere could see people booking that trip. A view from a different office chair could be the boost that people crave.

Audrey Hendley, President of American Express Travel, said, “the pandemic environment is giving rise to emerging trends, such as the increasing appeal of working from anywhere while traveling globally.” This idea has been seen periodically in the past year. From hotels offering the ultimate workspace to Caribbean islands targeting businesses, it seems that work and travel are more than just that business trip.

How will the summer travel trends impact your trip?

While this concept of digital nomad could mean that Disney Parks trip comes with an extra zoom call in between riding Space Mountain, there are both benefits and drawbacks to this concept. Sure, parents do not have to have family summer vacations canceled due to work, but there is no escape from the workplace tether.

Vacations are supposed to the time to unplug, step back and take a break from the daily grind. In the past year, people have found it difficult to step away from the work. Without the office routine, there is less “off-time” which can lead to stress.

While the concept of digital nomad does seem to satisfy that craving for wanderlust, it doesn’t get to the heart of the getaway, vacation concept. People need that mental break. The old phrase, all work and no play makes for a dull person, is more than a funny quip. That vacation, whether big or small, offers a moment to reset.

As travel restrictions ease and travelers are more confident about traveling, bookings will increase. The crowded beaches, lines at theme parks and busy airports show that people want to escape. But, if they are bringing work with them, is it really the escape that they need?

Do you think that the idea of the digital nomad is beneficial or detrimental? Are you ready for summer travel?