In the ever-evolving landscape of the travel industry, Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) play a pivotal role in connecting travelers and hotels. Behind the seamless user experience, there’s a complex web of back-office operations that keep the wheels turning. While most of these operations, from travel contract loading to hotel mapping, which requires careful attention to detail and strategic planning, are handled by Unire, the strategizing of the fare still remains an overwhelming task.
This calls for a detailed study of setting fares. So, let’s delve into discovering five easy fare comparison strategies for OTAs.
Fare Comparison: The Competitive Edge
In an era where travelers have the world at their fingertips, the importance of fare comparison cannot be overstated. OTAs juggle a multitude of suppliers, each offering different fares for the same destination. By seamlessly integrating diverse fare data, you can provide travelers with comprehensive options, fostering a sense of empowerment and choice.
Want to read more about tech in travel?
Read this – Chatbots in Travel Industry: Benefits and Use Cases in 2023
Here are five effective fare comparison strategies that you as an OTA can employ in your business:
#1. Real-time Fare Aggregation
You can leverage advanced technology to aggregate real-time fare data from various airlines, travel suppliers, and booking platforms. By presenting travelers with an up-to-date comparison of fares, availability, and benefits, you can empower customers to make well-informed decisions. This strategy enhances transparency and helps travelers secure the best deals while fostering trust in your offerings.
You can also utilize a proprietary fare aggregation system that constantly updates and displays a comprehensive range of fares, ensuring that travelers have access to the latest pricing information across multiple suppliers.
#2. Multi-Destination Bundle Deals
In the pursuit of unique travel experiences, many travelers opt for multi-destination trips. You can create bundled packages that combine flights, accommodations, and activities across different cities or countries. By showcasing the total cost savings of booking a bundled package compared to separate components, you can entice travelers to explore more destinations and enjoy cost-effective adventures.
For example, a traveler planning a European getaway can be presented with a bundled deal that includes flights, hotels, and activities in multiple cities, showcasing substantial savings compared to individual bookings.
#3. Flexible Date Fare Comparison
Travel dates often play a significant role in fare fluctuations. You can implement a flexible date fare comparison feature that allows travelers to view fare differences across a range of departure and return dates. This empowers travelers to identify the most budget-friendly options and adjust their plans accordingly.
A flexible date fare comparison tool enables travelers to visualize how fares vary based on departure and return date combinations, aiding them in making informed decisions while optimizing their travel budget.
#4. Exclusive Member Deals
Building a loyal customer base is crucial for any OTA. You can offer exclusive member deals or loyalty programs that provide subscribers with access to discounted fares and special offers. By highlighting the cost savings and benefits of membership, you can incentivize travelers to sign up, enhancing customer retention and engagement.
Employing a loyalty program, where members gain access to hidden fare discounts and tailored promotions, can solidify their commitment to you.
#5. Fare Trend Analysis and Notifications
You can implement fare trend analysis tools that monitor historical pricing data and predict future fare fluctuations. By sending notifications to travelers when fares for specific routes are projected to drop, you can offer a proactive approach that helps customers secure the best deals. This strategy not only saves travelers money but also positions you as a trusted advisor.
A fare trend analysis and notification system can alert travelers when fares for their preferred destinations are expected to decrease, enabling them to seize the opportunity and plan their trips strategically.
Summing up…
Incorporating these fare comparison strategies into your back-office operations can help you elevate your service offerings, cater to diverse traveler needs, and ultimately get established as leaders in the dynamic world of online travel.
In case you are wondering how you can optimize your back office operations even more efficiently, Unire can be the right place for you. With a wide range of travel back office operations services, Unire has helped tens of OTAs across the world to declutter their backend.
Further reading – Before outsourcing your back office, consider these five factors