Convenience Is Becoming the New Luxury

"Among Gen Z and Millennial travelers, 81% now plan their getaways based on what they’ve seen on screen." Expedia Unpack Research 2026

Travel has changed.

Travelers are spending more money to save time, reduce friction, and create memorable experiences.

For decades, travelers focused primarily on finding the best flight and the best place to stay. Today, that's no longer enough. Modern travelers are looking for something much more valuable: time and convenience. Here are some recent examples to validate the shift:

Airbnb: Airbnb has expanded beyond vacation rentals and into experiences and travel-related services. The company recognizes a growing trend across the travel industry: people are willing to pay for convenience if it helps them make the most of their trip.

TSA Gold: The launch of TSA Gold+ highlights a major shift in the travel industry: convenience is becoming the new luxury. Designed to improve airport screening efficiency and reduce wait times, TSA Gold+ reflects a growing demand from travelers who value their time more than ever.

TSA PreCheck: This is one of the earliest examples of convenience becoming a travel luxury. For a small enrollment fee, travelers gain access to expedited security screening, allowing them to keep their shoes, belts, and light jackets on while moving through dedicated security lanes.

Bringit: For years, travelers in Japan and Europe have embraced luggage delivery as a normal part of travel. Instead of dragging bags through cities, travelers use luggage delivery services and enjoy their journey hands-free. Now, the U.S. is beginning to catch up. Services like Bringit are making luggage delivery and storage more accessible, giving travelers back valuable time and eliminating one of the biggest hassles of modern travel.

These are a few examples and will continue to watch this space.