5 tendencias que redefinirán el mapa de los premios de viaje

Travel rewards offer something unique: the opportunity to create lasting memories. Unlike material goods, which may fade or become outdated, the experiences gained from travel can become a part of one's identity and cherished memories. 

In fact, this report says that 43% of customers worldwide prefer experiences to material possessions, and 78% place higher value on real-world experiences. 

Esta preferencia pone de manifiesto el cambio hacia el consumo experiencial y la creciente importancia de ofrecer experiencias de viaje como parte de un programa de recompensas.

Si miramos hacia el futuro, está claro que los programas de recompensas de viajes están cambiando de marcha, volviéndose más innovadores y centrados en el cliente. Exploremos juntos cómo es probable que estos cambios fomenten la fidelidad de los clientes en los próximos años.

5 Trends that will reshape travel rewards programs in 2025 

Estas tendencias en los premios por años de servicio están cambiando nuestra forma de concebir el reconocimiento de los empleados. Ya no se trata solo de la permanencia en el puesto, sino de crear experiencias significativas y memorables que resuenen en el individuo.

1. Las recompensas de viaje personalizadas cambiarán las reglas del juego

Imagine logging into your travel rewards program and being greeted with a message that says, "We noticed you enjoy beach vacations in the winter. Here's a special offer for a seaside resort in Bali with a bonus upgrade to a suite, just for you." 

Piensa en el nivel de personalización del mensaje anterior. ¿Cómo le haría sentir? ¿Valorado? ¿Comprendido? ¿Quizás incluso encantado? Este nivel de personalización va más allá de los puntos y millas genéricos; se trata de crear una experiencia gratificante que resuene con las preferencias, el comportamiento y las pautas de viaje de sus clientes.

The benefits of such personalization are two-fold

• For customers, it means receiving offers and rewards that genuinely match their interests and desires while making their travel more enjoyable and fulfilling. 
• Para los programas de recompensas de viajes, esto se traduce en mayores índices de participación, satisfacción del cliente y, en última instancia, fidelidad.

How to implement the right rewards platform for personalization?

Implementing the right rewards platform for personalization is crucial for businesses looking to enhance customer engagement and loyalty without the hefty investment in development resources. A platform that offers aesthetic personalization, reward email customization, and the ability to white-label can significantly streamline this process. 

Aquí tienes una guía paso a paso para asegurarte de que eliges una plataforma que cumple estos criterios esenciales.

Paso 1. Evaluar las características estéticas de personalización

• Identify platforms with customizable interfaces: Look for rewards platforms that allow you to customize the user interface (UI) extensively. This includes the ability to change colors, layouts, and elements to match your brand's aesthetic.
• Assess template variety: Ensure the platform offers a diverse range of templates for rewards pages and user dashboards. A good selection of templates can help you quickly create an appealing and unique look that resonates with your audience. 

Segundo paso. Garantizar una sólida personalización del correo electrónico de recompensa

• Dynamic content capabilities: Choose a platform that supports dynamic content in emails, allowing you to include personalized rewards, recommendations, and greetings based on the recipient's previous interactions and preferences.
• Customizable email templates: The rewards platform should be able to offer customizable email templates that you can modify to align with your brand’s voice and visual identity. This customization extends to text, images, and layout. 

Paso 3: Optar por una solución de marca blanca

• Brand integration: Select a platform that offers white-label capabilities, meaning you can brand the rewards program as your own, including logos, color schemes, and domain names, without visible third-party branding.
• Seamless integration: The white-label solution should integrate seamlessly with your existing website and customer management systems, providing a consistent user experience that feels entirely part of your ecosystem. 

Paso 4: Buscar opciones sin código o de bajo código

• User-friendly interface: Opt for a platform with a user-friendly, drag-and-drop interface that requires minimal to no coding skills. This feature allows your marketing team to create and manage the rewards program without needing developer assistance.
• Extensive support and documentation: Ensure the platform provides comprehensive support and documentation, including guides, tutorials, and customer service, to help you navigate the setup and customization processes effortlessly. 

Paso 5: Implantar y probar el programa piloto

• Pilot program: Before rolling out the rewards program platform-wide, implement a pilot program with a segment of your audience. This approach allows you to gather feedback and make necessary adjustments.
• Continuous optimization: Use analytics and customer feedback to continuously refine the aesthetics, email personalization, and overall experience of your rewards program. The right platform should offer detailed analytics to track engagement and effectiveness.

2. Las recomendaciones de recompensas basadas en IA llevarán la fidelización a nuevas cotas

Imagina que caminas a paso ligero por el aeropuerto, ansioso por llegar a tu puerta de embarque. De repente, tu smartwatch vibra con una notificación. No es un mensaje ni un correo electrónico, sino una oferta de recompensa instantánea:

"Está a sólo unos pasos de nuestra exclusiva sala VIP. ¿Por qué no pasa y se relaja antes de su vuelo? Aquí tiene un pase de acceso gratuito, sólo para usted". 

Las recomendaciones de recompensas basadas en IA como ésta están diseñadas para hacer que su experiencia de viaje sea más agradable y menos estresante.

Qué pueden hacer por usted las plataformas de recompensas basadas en IA

AI-based rewards platforms leverage artificial intelligence to enhance loyalty programs, offering a personalized and dynamic experience for your customers. These platforms use AI algorithms and machine learning to analyze vast amounts of data on customer behavior, preferences, and interactions. 

Here’s what AI-based rewards platforms will do:

• Provide personalized reward offerings: They tailor rewards and recommendations to individual customers based on their past behavior, preferences, and purchase history. This personalization ensures that customers receive offers and rewards that are most relevant and appealing to them, increasing engagement and loyalty.
• Predict customer behavior: AI algorithms can predict future customer behavior by analyzing past interactions. This predictive capability allows businesses to anticipate customer needs and preferences, offering rewards and promotions before the customer even asks for them.
• Automate rewards processes: These platforms automate the rewards process, from the accumulation of points or rewards based on customer actions to the redemption process. Automation increases efficiency and reduces the likelihood of errors, improving the overall customer experience.
• Enhance customer segmentation: AI-based platforms can segment customers more accurately and dynamically than traditional methods. They use real-time data analysis to group customers based on behavior, spending patterns, and engagement levels, allowing for more targeted and effective reward strategies.
• Optimize reward strategies: Through continuous learning and analysis, AI platforms can identify the most effective rewards and promotions for different customer segments. This optimization ensures that businesses are not only retaining customers but also maximizing the return on investment in their loyalty programs.
• Facilitate real-time interactions: AI-based platforms can interact with customers in real-time, providing instant rewards, feedback, and support. This immediacy enhances the customer experience, making the loyalty program feel more responsive and attentive to individual needs.

3. Las recompensas experienciales reconfigurarán los programas de fidelización de viajeros

How would you feel about redeeming points for a private cooking class with a renowned chef in Italy, instead of a standard hotel stay? The shift towards experiential rewards is not just a trend but a reflection of the evolving traveler's quest for deeper, more meaningful connections with the world. 

Estas experiencias ofrecen una nueva dimensión de la lealtad, en la que cada punto canjeado es un paso hacia otra historia inolvidable.

What factors to consider when choosing a rewards platform with experiential offerings?

Al seleccionar una plataforma de recompensas especializada en ofertas experienciales, es fundamental tener en cuenta varios factores. Estas consideraciones garantizan que la plataforma no solo se alinee con los valores de su marca, sino que también resuene con los deseos de su público de vivir experiencias únicas y memorables. 

Here's what to keep in mind:

• Diversity of categories in experiences: Look for a platform that offers a wide range of experiential rewards. This should include fine dining, entertainment, adventure activities, cultural tours, spa and wellness retreats, and more. The diversity ensures that there's something appealing for every type of traveler. 
• Curated offerings: Evaluate the quality and authenticity of the experiences. The best platforms collaborate with local experts and businesses to curate unique and genuine experiences that are difficult to find elsewhere. 
• Capacidad de personalización: Considere el uso que hace la plataforma de la IA y el aprendizaje automático para personalizar las recomendaciones de experiencias basadas en las preferencias del usuario, el comportamiento anterior y otros puntos de datos. La personalización mejora el compromiso del usuario al hacer que las sugerencias sean más relevantes. 
• Ease of integration: The platform should easily integrate with your existing systems, ensuring a smooth transition for your team and a seamless experience for your customers. Check for compatibility with your CRM, loyalty program, and other relevant systems. 
• User experience: The platform should offer an intuitive and user-friendly interface for both the business and the end-user. This includes easy navigation, simple redemption processes, and accessible customer support. 
• Scalability: Ensure the platform can scale with your business, accommodating an increasing number of users and a growing catalog of experiences without compromising performance.

Cree historias, no transacciones Convierta momentos en recuerdos con recompensas experienciales instantáneas.

Explore categorías únicas adaptadas a diversos intereses, desde aventuras llenas de adrenalina hasta serenos retiros de bienestar. Empieza a vivir experiencias gratificantes al instante.

Explorar el mercado

4. Se valorará muy positivamente la flexibilidad a la hora de elegir las recompensas.  

Imagine a world where your airline miles do more than just book flights. Picture a system where you can transfer those miles to a hotel loyalty program, redeem them for a gourmet dining experience, or even convert them into tickets for a coveted concert. This level of flexibility transforms points from a mere currency into a passport to a world of possibilities.

Para las empresas que deseen adoptar este enfoque flexible en su programa de recompensas, he aquí una guía paso a paso para implantar una plataforma que ofrezca una amplia gama de opciones a sus usuarios.

• Step 1. Assess your audience's preferences: Conduct surveys and gather data to understand the diverse interests and preferences of your audience. This will guide you in selecting the right mix of rewards.
• Step 2. Choose a versatile platform: Opt for a rewards platform that supports broad integrations with various partners, allowing for a wide range of reward options, from travel and dining to retail and entertainment.
• Step 3. Integrate flexible points system: Implement a system that allows easy transfer of points between different programs and categories, ensuring users can use their points exactly how they wish. 
• Step 4. Enable non-travel redemption options too: Broaden your rewards catalog to include non-travel options such as merchandise, event tickets, and digital products, catering to all types of travelers. 
• Step 5. Simplify the redemption process: Ensure the redemption process is simple and user-friendly, with clear instructions and minimal steps to convert points into rewards. 
• Step 6. Promote your flexible travel rewards program: Use targeted marketing strategies to highlight the flexibility and variety of your rewards program, showcasing real-life examples of how points can be used.

5. Recompensas favorables a los nómadas digitales para los trabajadores móviles

Imagine the possibilities of a travel rewards program that not only recognizes your wanderlust but also supports your mobile lifestyle. Co-working space access, discounts on long-stay accommodations, invitations to networking events across the globe – these are not just perks but essential tools for any digital nomad.

El objetivo es crear recompensas que no sólo retengan la fidelidad, sino que también enriquezcan significativamente la experiencia de viaje y de trabajo de forma innovadora y sostenible.

A continuación se explica cómo garantizar que su plataforma satisfaga las demandas de este grupo demográfico único, centrándose en ofertas diversas y en la distribución instantánea y sin complicaciones de las recompensas.

• Step 1. Understand the nomad lifestyle: Conduct research to deeply understand the needs, preferences, and challenges faced by digital nomads. 
• Step 2. Curate diverse and relevant rewards: Select rewards that directly support the nomadic lifestyle, such as co-working space memberships, long-term accommodation deals, and networking opportunities. 
• Step 3. Ensure global accessibility: Partner with global providers to ensure rewards are accessible worldwide, without geographical limitations. 
• Step 4. Offer instant, flexible redemption: Implement a technology-driven redemption process that allows nomads to access and redeem rewards instantly, regardless of currency or location. 
• Step 5. Personalize the rewards experience: Use data analytics to offer personalized rewards that align with individual preferences and travel patterns of digital nomads.
• Step 6. Promote and educate: Market the program effectively to reach digital nomads where they are, using social media, blogs, and digital nomad communities.

Conclusión

De cara al futuro, la tendencia hacia las recompensas basadas en la experiencia, especialmente los viajes, está destinada a crecer. Ofrecer viajes como recompensa no consiste solo en regalar viajes; se trata de ofrecer experiencias que enriquezcan la vida, forjen conexiones e inspiren fidelidad.

The market is competitive but travel rewards emerge as a clear differentiator, turning customers into brand ambassadors who share their stories and experiences. Businesses that recognize and act on this trend will not only enhance their customer experience but also build a loyal customer base that views their relationship with the brand as a journey filled with memorable experiences.

With Plum’s seamless rewards platform, businesses can unlock a world of travel incentives, offering everything from flight and hotel vouchers to curated experiences that drive engagement and retention.

Transform your rewards strategy with Plum and create experiences that leave a lasting impact!