Digital nomads: Who they are and how they are shaping the industry

There are an estimated 23 million digital nomads worldwide as of 2023. And this figure is growing.

Nearly 50 percent of the digital nomads come from the US, followed by the UK at 7 percent, Russia at 5 percent and Canada and Germany at 4 percent. There was a staggering 131 percent increase in digital nomads from the US when compared to pre-pandemic 2019.

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The growth now may not be quite that staggering, but digital nomads are definitely on the rise.

Here’s what you need to know about digital nomads and how you can attract them to your hotel or vacation rental.

Who are digital nomads?

Digital nomads generally combine remote work and travel for various reasons and lengths of time. Passionate about new adventures, they know how to make the most of new technologies and only need an internet connection to work from anywhere in the world.

Whilst this community has always existed, its popularity seems to have accelerated post-pandemic as work rules have become more relaxed worldwide and flexible or remote working is almost like a new normal.

What digital nomads care about?

Obviously, they love to travel, but here are a few things you need to know about these travelers.

• They choose their destination based on a few specific factors, including safety, the price of accommodation, internet speed, or the co-working spaces on offer. The cost of living and accessible and reliable internet were the main factors that influenced their decision.
• According to Statista, the majority of digital nomads live in hotels (51 percent), then with friends/family (41 percent), Airbnb (36 percent), car/van/RV (21 percent), and hostels (16 percent).
• They are typically in their mid-30s, although the 40 to 59 years age group is also well represented according to Statista. Millennials make up 47 percent of the digital nomad population currently.
• A higher population of digital nomads (61 percent) are male and 37 percent are females according to Statista.
• The top places they travel to are America (53 percent), Western Europe (18 percent), and Asia (13 perent).
• Most (approximately 71 percent) visit one to two countries in a year, whilst 19 percent visit three to four countries.

How to attract digital nomads to your property?

• With changing schedules, flexibility is paramount to this group. Keep bookings and payment options flexible to attract them
• Cater to amenities and technology that meets their need – high-speed internet is critical
• “Laptop-friendly spaces” is highly searched by digital nomads. Create spaces and an environment that is social and easy for them to work in
• Partner with local businesses and community to offer these guests a taste of the local culture and community
• Ensure a relevant online presence through OTAs, website and social channels
• Offer discounts and promos, particularly for extended-stays

Wrapping it up

What started as a trend is now a movement that is making property owners and tourism bodies rethink their strategy. What’s your strategy for this segment? Is it for you? Do you have questions about how to manage extended stays and make them lucrative? 

STAAH Blog originally published HERE