The United Kingdom Online Travel Market is Segmented by Service Type (Transportation, Travel Accommodation, and More), by Booking Type (Desktop & Laptop and Mobile), by Platform Type (Online Travel Agencies, Direct Supplier Websites, and More), by Traveler Type (Leisure, Business, and More), by Region (England, Scotland, and More), and More Segments. The Market Forecasts are Provided in Terms of Value (USD).

The Outbound Travel Industry Analysis in the United Kingdom is estimated to be valued at USD 98.2 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 224.2 billion by 2035, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.6% over the forecast period.

Quarterly estimates of overseas residents’ visits and spending. Also includes data on nights, purpose, region of UK visited and mode of travel. Breakdowns by nationality and area of residence are covered. This dataset is published quarterly. The versions published for Quarters 1 (Jan to Mar), 2 (Apr to June) and 3 (July to Sept) are on a separate webpage under the name "Estimates of overseas residents' visits and spending".

It is expected that the UK adventure tourism market will grow from an estimated USD 13.7 billion in 2025 to USD 23.8 billion by 2035, with a CAGR of 5.6% during the forecast period from 2025 to 2035.

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Travel Market Size 2024-2028

The travel market size is forecast to increase by USD 2860.2 billion, at a CAGR of 11.1% between 2023 and 2028.

The market is experiencing significant growth, fueled by the increasing popularity of experiential travel and the surge in international tourist footfall. This trend is driven by consumers' shifting preferences towards unique and immersive travel experiences, offering opportunities for companies to differentiate their offerings and cater to this demand. However, the market faces challenges, including the growing threat from terrorism, which can deter travelers and negatively impact the industry. Companies must navigate these challenges by implementing robust security measures and fostering transparency to reassure customers. To capitalize on market opportunities, businesses should focus on delivering personalized, authentic experiences that cater to the evolving needs of travelers. By staying attuned to these trends and addressing the challenges, companies can effectively position themselves in the competitive the market landscape.

What will be the Size of the Travel Market during the forecast period?

Explore in-depth regional segment analysis with market size data - historical 2018-2022 and forecasts 2024-2028 - in the full report.
Request Free SampleIn the ever-evolving the market, various sectors continue to adapt and innovate to meet the changing needs and preferences of consumers. Business travelers seek convenience and efficiency with portable chargers, travel adaptors, and carry-on luggage, while solo travelers prioritize safety with GPS trackers and TSA locks. Sustainable tourism gains traction as eco-friendly options such as biodegradable products, carbon offsetting, and sustainable packaging become more prevalent. Medical tourism and food tourism cater to specific niches, offering unique experiences and specialized services. Travel data analytics and online booking platforms streamline the planning process, while tour guides and local experts provide valuable insights into destinations. Travel writing and journals allow travelers to document their experiences and share them with others. Luxury travel and adventure travel cater to diverse markets, with wheeled luggage, travel pillows, and hiking boots providing comfort and functionality. The marketing and social media platforms connect travelers with new experiences and destinations. Travel influencers and customer loyalty programs offer incentives and personalized recommendations. Tourism management and responsible travel initiatives prioritize the well-being of communities and the environment. Cultural tourism and destination marketing foster appreciation and understanding of diverse cultures. Rental cars and community tourism provide opportunities for authentic experiences and exploration. The market remains dynamic, with ongoing developments and trends shaping the industry. From travel accessories to travel technology, the market continues to evolve, offering new possibilities and experiences for travelers.

How is this Travel Industry segmented?

The travel industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. SectorTransportationHotelTravel activitiesTypeLeisureBusinessTourCustomized & Private VacationsSafari & AdventureCruises, Yachting & Small Ship ExpeditionsCelebration JourneysCulinary Travel & ShoppingLuxury TrainsCustomized & Private VacationsSafari & AdventureCruises, Yachting & Small Ship ExpeditionsCelebration JourneysCulinary Travel & ShoppingLuxury TrainsAge21-30 Years31-40 Years41-60 Years60 And Above21-30 Years31-40 Years41-60 Years60 And AboveGeographyNorth AmericaUSEuropeFranceUKAPACChinaJapanRest of World (ROW)

By Sector Insights

The transportation segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.In the thriving business travel sector, various offerings cater to the diverse needs of modern tourists. First-aid kits and biodegradable products have become essential travel accessories, reflecting a growing emphasis on health and sustainability. Travel insurance policies ensure peace of mind for business travelers, while ear plugs, eye masks, and portable chargers enhance comfort during long flights. Passport holders and sustainable packaging promote organization and eco-consciousness. Carbon offsetting and packing cubes streamline the process of planning and packing for trips. Food tourism and insect repellent cater to the adventurous palate and the need for outdoor exploration. Group travel and duffel bags offer cost savings, while hiking boots and travel data analytics facilitate efficient and enjoyable exploration. Medical tourism and travel safety services ensure well-being during international journeys. Travel adaptors, tour guides,

The UK Responsible Tourism Industry will see tremendous growth, with estimates predicting growth from USD 20 billion in 2025 to USD 28 billion by 2035, which represents a CAGR of 3.4%. The reasons for this growth are multiple and include an upsurge in environmental consciousness among tourists who are increasingly looking for sustainable tourism opportunities.

The UK special interest tourism market is poised for robust growth, projected to increase from USD 367.3 Million in 2025 to USD 918.2 Million by 2035. The market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.6% during this period.

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Metaverse Market in Travel and Tourism Market Size 2024-2028

The metaverse market in travel and tourism market size is forecast to increase by USD 155.17 billion at a CAGR of 26.76% between 2023 and 2028. In the dynamic realm of technology, the metaverse market in travel and tourism is experiencing significant growth. Key drivers include the surging demand for great technologies such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), which offer unprecedented experiential opportunities for travelers. Furthermore, the metaverse's application in travel and tourism is on the rise, with developments in this sector revolutionizing the way we explore and experience destinations. However, this burgeoning market is not without challenges. High development costs associated with AR and VR applications pose a significant barrier to entry for many players. Despite these hurdles, the metaverse's potential to transform travel and tourism is undeniable, making it an exciting and innovative space to watch.

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The market in the Travel and Tourism industry is experiencing significant advancements with the integration of Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) technologies. Metaverse devices such as VR headsets, MR headsets, smart glasses, and smart helmets are transforming the gaming experience for tourists, offering tailored metaverses and digital twins for great exploration. Investments in the Metaverse sector are on the rise, driven by the potential for additional revenue and deployable use cases in the travel industry. The medical sector is also exploring the benefits of Metaverse technology for training and simulation purposes. Advancements in 3D modeling and the use of Unreal Engine are enhancing the realism and interactivity of Metaverse experiences.

However, challenges such as eye strain, dizziness, nausea, myopia, low resolution, and virtual sickness remain concerns for users. Electromagnetic frequency emissions from Metaverse devices are another issue that requires attention. As the Metaverse market continues to evolve, timelines for human resource development and business performance optimization will be crucial for success. Blockchain technology is expected to play a role in securing transactions and ensuring data privacy in the Metaverse travel and tourism market. Overall, the Metaverse market holds immense potential for innovation and growth in the travel industry.

Market Segmentation

The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.

Application

  AR
  MR
  Blockchain
  XR
  VR


Component

  Hardware
  Software
  Services


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK


  APAC

    China


  South America



  Middle East and Africa

By Application Insights

The AR segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. The metaverse market in travel and tourism is experiencing significant advancements with the integration of Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and Mixed Reality (MR) technologies. According to industry estimates, this sector is expected to witness substantial growth, driven by the adoption of HMDs (Head-Mounted Displays) such as VR headsets, MR headsets, smart glasses, and smart helmets. These technologies offer tailored metaverses for travelers, providing great gaming experiences and personalized explorations. Investments in the metaverse market are on the rise, with developments in the medical sector showcasing digital twins, blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) for healthcare providers.

Furthermore, advancements in programming and cybersecurity concerns are being addressed to ensure negligence and oversight are minimized. AR and VR technologies are revolutionizing traveler experiences by enabling real-time navigation and information, simplifying exploration in unfamiliar locales. The convergence of these technologies with AI and ML offers personalized experiences, enhancing traveler engagement. However, concerns regarding health effects, cybersecurity, regulations, defined standards, taxation, and experiential training are being addressed to ensure a seamless and safe user experience. For instance, preflight checks, integration, weapon training, and flight training simulations are being developed to ensure safety and efficiency in various sectors. In summary, the metaverse market in travel and tourism is undergoing significant advancements, driven by the adoption of AR, VR, and MR technologies, investments, and tailored metaverses. Addressing concerns regarding health effects, cybersecurity, regulations, and defined standards is crucial for the continued growth and success of this sect

The UK safari tourism industry is set for phenomenal growth, with the size of the market set to increase from USD 2.2 billion in 2025 to USD 4.1 billion in 2035, a CAGR of 6.1%.

In 2024, the direct and indirect contribution of travel and tourism to the United Kingdom's gross domestic product (GDP) was *** percent higher than in 2019, the year prior to the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Overall, these industries' total contribution to the country's GDP amounted to roughly *** billion British pounds in 2024. Has tourism in the UK recovered from the impact of COVID-19? While inbound resident visits to the UK dropped to just above ***** million in 2021 - the lowest figure reported in *** decades - the volume of inbound tourist visits to the United Kingdom rebounded in 2022, and grew to ** million in 2023. International arrivals, however, remained below pre-pandemic levels. Similarly, while outbound tourist visits from the UK experienced around a ******** increase in 2022 compared to the previous year, the country still reported around ***** million fewer trips abroad in 2023 than in 2019. What are the favorite holiday destinations among Britons? Either before or after the impact of the health crisis, vacationing remained the main travel purpose for outbound visits from the UK. In 2023, ***** was the most visited holiday destination by UK travelers, followed by *************************.

Travel was brought to a standstill by COVID-19, threatening the UK economy. With restrictions now lifted, let's review some emerging trends in the UK tourism industry.

The size of the Travel Tourism Market was valued at USD 993.44 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 1474.15 billion by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.80% during the forecast period. Recent developments include: August 2023: Two brand-new Tanzania and Italy National Geographic Family Journeys have been added by G Adventures. Throughout the eight-day Tanzania Family Journey, families are anticipated to go on Serengeti game drives and visit a community tourism initiative., July 2023: TUI Group launched a ChatGPT-powered chatbot on its U.K. app. This was the first of what is anticipated to be a series of rollouts that combine generative AI into the company's technology., February 2023: Adris announced intentions to invest US$ 511 million in its tourist business Maistra through 2025 in an effort to expand its luxury category.. Notable trends are: Increase in available income is driving the market growth.

Monthly estimates of overseas residents’ visits and spending and visits and spending abroad by UK or Great Britain residents. Also includes data on purpose of visit, area visited by UK residents and area of residence for overseas residents.

The UK travel agency services market is set to grow steadily over the next ten years. It is expected to grow from a projected USD 45.3 billion in 2025 to USD 99.8 billion in 2035, at a CAGR of 8.2% over the forecast period of 2025 to 2035. The increase will be due to the increased demand for immersive and personalized travel experiences, increased usage of digital booking platforms, and the trend towards environmentally friendly travel options.

United Kingdom UK: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items data was reported at 64.774 USD bn in 2016. This records a decrease from the previous number of 66.813 USD bn for 2015. United Kingdom UK: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items data is updated yearly, averaging 55.972 USD bn from Dec 1995 (Median) to 2016, with 22 observations. The data reached an all-time high of 76.584 USD bn in 2007 and a record low of 24.926 USD bn in 1995. United Kingdom UK: International Tourism: Expenditures: for Travel Items data remains active status in CEIC and is reported by World Bank. The data is categorized under Global Database’s United Kingdom – Table UK.World Bank.WDI: Tourism Statistics. International tourism expenditures are expenditures of international outbound visitors in other countries. The goods and services are purchased by, or on behalf of, the traveler or provided, without a quid pro quo, for the traveler to use or give away. These may include expenditures by residents traveling abroad as same-day visitors, except in cases where these are so important as to justify a separate classification. Excluded is the international carriage of travelers, which is covered in passenger travel items. Data are in current U.S. dollars.; ; World Tourism Organization, Yearbook of Tourism Statistics, Compendium of Tourism Statistics and data files.; Gap-filled total;

Over the five years through 2025-26, revenue is projected to soar at a compound annual rate of 10.5%. Unsurprisingly, OTAs didn't escape the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak and global travel restrictions, which brought plummeting sales, litigation threats and restructuring activity at the beginning of the five-year period. Bookings exploded following the scrapping of travel restrictions in March 2022. OTAs' troubles weren't over immediately when borders reopened – the spike in passenger numbers has taken time to translate into the same rise in revenue, with customers booking holidays using credit notes and vouchers amid COVID-19 backlogs. However, strong passenger numbers in the two years through 2025-26 are supporting strong OTA revenue growth.

Demand for travel has proved resilient despite the cost-of-living squeeze, with many making a holiday their top discretionary purchase. Travellers looking for great value have seen an uptick in package holidays. In 2025-26, revenue is anticipated to climb by 3.3% to reach £2 billion and the average industry profit margin is set to rise to 8.6%.

Over the five years through 2030-31, revenue is forecast to swell at a compound annual rate of 2.8% to reach £2.3 billion. Competition from tourism providers will intensify as suppliers cut prices and boost loyalty programme rewards to attract bookings. While OTAs may not be able to compete against airlines and hotels on price and loyalty programmes, they can emphasise personalisation. Social media is the new marketing norm and OTAs need to prioritise digital marketing. Younger travellers especially trust these platforms, as 59% of Gen Z use Instagram, 54% turn to YouTube and 47% rely on TikTok for holiday inspiration, according to Sky Scanners ‘The Future of Travel’ report in November 2025. As momentum gains on sustainable travel intent, so does the opportunity for OTAs to further efforts in building and communicating more sustainable travel experiences.

The size of the United Kingdom Online Travel Market market was valued at USD XX Million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD XXX Million by 2032, with an expected CAGR of 5.00">> 5.00% during the forecast period. Key drivers for this market are: Internet Penetration is Driving the Market. Potential restraints include: Government Regulations are Restraining the Market. Notable trends are: Tourism is Driving the Online Travel Market in United Kingdom.

The UK educational tourism market is set for robust growth, with projections indicating an increase from an estimated USD 78.8 billion in 2025 to USD 220 billion by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 10.8% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by the rising demand for UK-based academic programs, immersive language experiences, and the country's global reputation for high-quality education.