12 things we don’t want to see in travel in 2024

Reels and streams at airports

Trending audio, dance reels and livestreams—airports see it all. But do we have to? The last thing we want to see when waiting at our gate for a delayed flight is a group of people balancing their mini tripod on their suitcases to a synchronised dance to Pitbull’s 2014 hit Fireball. And, more importantly, we don’t want our haggard and confused airport selves to be in the background of a reel that’s probably going to be viewed by thousands or, if we’re seriously unlucky, millions.

AI-generated fake destination photos

Undoubtedly, 2023 was the year the world woke up to the many possibilities of AI, from AI-generated articles to AI influencers and AI-generated imagery. German artist Boris Eldagsen even entered and won the Sony World Photography Award with an AI-generated image—he subsequently refused to accept the award after revealing he used AI to create the image. In the world of travel, one thing we would prefer not to see is AI-generated destination photos that can mislead travellers and cause some serious confusion if misused.

Day-long delays on flights

Frequent travellers have to be okay with the occasional delayed flight, it’s a part of the process. But things get challenging when the delay goes from an hour, to a few hours, to a whole day—often because an airline is trying to avoid having to pay for your accommodation by cancelling or rescheduling the flight. Before you know it, you’re spending the night at the airport, unsure of exactly when you will be able to fly out. In 2024, we would like less delays and quicker travel, less time at airports and more at our destinations.

Crowded airport lounges

The airport lounge was designed to be a luxurious space that allows travellers space and privacy while they wait for their flights. In the recent past, however, many lounges have become almost as crowded as airport gates, with several credit card companies offering lounge access as part of their benefits. This means lines to enter, crowds at the buffet, and general chaos inside, especially during peak travel seasons—a far-cry from the promise of a peaceful wait. Several lounges have begun introducing time limits for guests or turning people away if lounges are too crowded. We hope 2024 brings better planning at airport lounges, either with more limited access or through more spaces and multiple lounge options to reduce crowds and queues.

Hidden fees

There are few things as upsetting as wrapping up a relaxed holiday by receiving a bill at check-out that includes charges you’ve never seen or heard of. This unpleasant surprise is often in the form of resort fees: mandatory extra per night charges that you’re not informed of in advance, which include charges for the gym, Wi-Fi or parking. At a homestay or vacation rental, this could be cleaning charges that you didn’t know about. Not only is it a downer at the end of a fun vacation, it’s also unfair, given that you’re not made aware of these charges at the time of booking. Let’s keep things simple and upfront in 2024, hidden fees begone!