In a rapidly evolving meetings and events landscape, group travel is experiencing a bold transformation. As organizations reimagine how they bring people together, planners are leaning into elevated, purpose-driven, and more personalized travel experiences. The days of cookie-cutter group itineraries are fading; in their place are journeys that prioritize wellness, sustainability, meaningful connections, and memorable moments.
Here are the top emerging trends shaping group travel for meetings and events in 2025 and beyond.
Today's attendees want more than just a place — they want a purpose. Whether it’s aligning the trip with corporate social responsibility goals, cultural immersion, or unique learning opportunities, planners are selecting destinations that offer built-in value.
Trend Tip: Consider destinations with strong local identities or built-in giveback programs—such as beach cleanups, habitat restoration, or community-driven culinary experiences. These leave a lasting impact on both the group and the community.
Blending business and leisure is no longer a perk — it’s an expectation. But bleisure is evolving. Attendees want seamless, curated experiences that allow for both focused work and authentic exploration.
Trend Tip: Build in flexible downtime, offer optional excursions, and provide digital guides for self-led adventures. Planners are even offering pre- and post-event travel extensions as a key part of the program.
Forget mega-conferences in cavernous ballrooms. Many planners are opting for intimate, immersive gatherings in inspiring locations. Think: mountaintop lodges, boutique vineyard estates, or lakeside cabins that foster collaboration and creativity.
Trend Tip: Smaller doesn’t mean less effective. Micro-retreats often yield deeper engagement and higher ROI thanks to meaningful interaction and focused agendas.
Wellness has become a non-negotiable. Group travel now routinely includes options like morning yoga, mindfulness sessions, healthy menus, and digital detox zones. Attendees are expected to return not just informed, but recharged.
Trend Tip: Partner with properties that have built-in wellness amenities or access to nature. Bonus points for spa packages, on-site fitness experts, or nutrition-focused culinary programming.
Environmental consciousness is no longer a niche concern. From carbon offsetting group travel to sourcing local and sustainable vendors, planners are expected to make eco-friendly choices every step of the way.
Trend Tip: Choose LEED-certified venues, encourage group transportation, and ditch single-use plastics. Be transparent with attendees about the sustainability measures in place—it builds trust and aligns with their values.
AI, RFID badges, and smart itineraries are enabling planners to tailor experiences at scale. Whether it's personalized room drops, dietary-aware menus, or app-based networking, technology is powering hyper-personal group travel.
Trend Tip: Use attendee data (ethically and securely) to customize experiences. Think personalized welcome messages, session recommendations, or even curated playlists for the journey.
Groups want to connect — not just with each other, but with the local culture. Culinary classes, artisan markets, and guided neighborhood tours offer memorable touchpoints that resonate far more than traditional outings.
Trend Tip: Work with DMCs or local storytellers to create immersive, culturally respectful programming that feels authentic — not touristy.
As we navigate the future of meetings and events, group travel is no longer just about logistics — it’s about *experience design*. Attendees are craving journeys that inspire, connect, and transform. For planners, that means moving beyond the "how" of travel, and embracing the "why."
In 2025 and beyond, the most impactful group travel will be collective in spirit, but deeply individual in experience.
Creator of digital platform meetingpages complete event planning directory and resource delivering leads and national, regional and local exposure for event venues, suppliers and destinations in MN, WI, IA & CO markets. In her free time, this 19 year industry veteran enjoys dance, group fitness, and training her young golden retriever dog in competition obedience and confirmation.
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