Tourpreneur Tour Business Podcast Connectivity Series: Multi-Day Tour Connectivity - Past, Present & Future
May 2, 2025
Kelly Tompkins, Founder & CPO of ReserveX and a veteran in travel technology, shares his insights on multi-day tours with host Peter Syme. They discuss the industry's evolution towards smaller, intimate tours, driven by changing customer behaviors, particularly among Gen Z. Kelly highlights the need for better API connectivity to enhance distribution and streamline booking. He also explores how AI is set to revolutionize travel planning, urging operators to embrace tech to stay competitive. Unique experiences remain key to overcoming digital challenges.
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Episode notes
Mobile Booking And High Repeat Rates
- Mobile bookings dominate for younger travelers and repeat bookings are strong when tours deliver clear value.
- Higher perceived value yields strong repeat purchase behavior in multi-day segments.
APIs Unlock Real-Time Distribution
- Real-time two-way booking APIs are the missing piece holding back multi-day electronic distribution.
- When operators support live inventory decrementing and booking, they can scale distribution like hotels and airlines.
Use Electronic Distribution To Merchandize
- Invest in electronic distribution to reach more channels and enable dynamic merchandising like promotions and last-minute offers.
- Use these tools to apply revenue management practices that maximize profits rather than only manual regional reps.