Travel-based loyalty programs are experiencing significant growth, driven by their ability to offer personalized customer experiences, according to the latest report from Rocket Travel by Agoda.
Rocket Travel by Agoda’s 2025 Trend Report highlights that the top five airline loyalty programs saw a 7.75% average growth in valuation between 2020 and 2023. Additionally, some travel loyalty programs in the financial services sector have tripled in value since 2019.
Damien Pfirsch, Head of Rocket Travel by Agoda, explained that travel is uniquely emotional for customers. “Unlike other industries, travel is something that people are emotionally invested in. By offering real-world experiences that customers genuinely care about, brands can transform transactional relationships into long-term partnerships,” he said.
The report noted that while customer satisfaction dipped for many loyalty programs post-Covid, there is now an opportunity to re-engage customers through enhanced online experiences. For brands utilizing Rocket Travel by Agoda’s platform, some partners have seen a 40% repeat booking rate among loyalty users.
“Digital travel platforms are designed to let customers personalize their experiences, offering excellent search capabilities, a wide selection of destinations, and value-driven prices,” Pfirsch added. “These platforms are customizable, allowing brands to provide a seamless experience that mirrors their main sites.”
Other features include the ability to filter based on proximity to key locations, flexible travel options, and localized languages. Interactive tools recommend personalized options, such as deep discounts for price-sensitive travelers or high-point opportunities for frequent users, increasing repeat engagement and long-term value.
“As the industry adopts AI, these personalization capabilities will only become stronger,” Pfirsch noted.
The report also highlights the financial benefits of travel loyalty programs, particularly among higher-spending customers. One partner reported that its most engaged loyalty members spend 18% more on the platform, demonstrating the power of effective loyalty programs.
Additionally, travel-based loyalty programs open up opportunities for ancillary revenue. Pfirsch explained, “Loyalty programs also offer businesses the chance to drive revenue through adjacent services like hotels, car rentals, and transportation. For instance, by adding trip insurance, one partner estimated an additional $1.2 million in revenue, with promising early results.”
Rocket Travel by Agoda is helping partners craft loyalty programs that resonate with customers, build lasting relationships, and support sustainable growth in 2025 and beyond.
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