5 Marketing Ideas + 1 Must-use Technique to Boost Your Travelers’ Online Engagement

The travel and tourism industry is undergoing a major digital transformation. Today’s travelers are looking for unique experiences and share everything online.

How can you capture their attention, build trust, and generate repeat bookings?

Here are 5 concrete marketing ideas, complemented by 1 must-try technique to engage and retain your travel customers.

1. Themed Creative Contest (UGC that Converts)

Launch a photo or video contest around a travel-related theme (e.g., “My Most Beautiful Sunrise” or “My Ideal Travel Journal”).

• Reward: discount, upgrade, or free activity.

• Tip: share the winning entries on your social media and emails to generate social proof and build trust.

2. Audio Capsules – “2-Minute Destination” Podcast

Create immersive mini-podcasts: micro-guides, local anecdotes, or destination soundscapes.

• Distribution: product pages, newsletters, Spotify/Apple Podcasts.

Here’s an example of an audio capsule inspired by the “2-Minute Destination” format, an immersive series produced by TourMaG that invites listeners to explore a city through its sounds.

• Tip: include an audio promo code (–10% with code PODCAST10) to boost bookings.

3. Experiential bundles (themed packages)

Sell not just a simple stay, but a complete experience (accommodation + local activity + digital goodies).

• Tip: give each bundle a catchy name (e.g., Tuscan Gourmet Getaway) and offer a “gift” version to boost word-of-mouth.

4. Pop-ups & virtual events

Host flash sales or “travel prep with a local guide” live sessions.

• Tip: pair the live event with an exclusive 24-hour offer to drive immediate bookings.

5. Ultra-limited “early bird” offers

Launch certain tours with an exclusive, limited-time or limited-availability offer. Effect: creates a sense of urgency and encourages quick bookings.

• Tip: promote the offer via email, social media, and your website with a visible countdown to maximize the FOMO effect.

Practical tips to maximize impact

• Use visible countdowns on your website, emails, and social media.

• Clearly show limited availability (e.g., "Only 5 spots left!").

• Send strategic reminders via email or SMS as the offer nears its end.

• Highlight customer testimonials or social proof to boost credibility.

+1 Must-use marketing technique: co-creating itineraries

Let your community vote to design a new tour or activity.

• Benefits: generates natural buzz, creates a sense of belonging, and ensures sales from launch.

• Example:

The travel agency posts a poll or quiz on its social media and newsletter, offering several options for a future tour in Japan: cities to visit, types of activities (temples, gastronomy, adventure, local experiences), accommodations, etc.

Subscribers vote for their preferences and can even suggest original ideas.

The final itinerary is announced with a thank-you to the community for their participation.