Expedia Group has launched a new platform called Travel Shops, allowing influencers and content creators to monetize their travel recommendations. The initiative enables influencers to curate collections of their favorite hotels and destinations, which users can book directly through Expedia’s app or website. This creates a direct link between inspiration and action, offering influencers a new way to earn commissions outside of traditional advertising.
Travel Shops provide a unique opportunity for creators to highlight stays and destinations they personally recommend. For example, travel influencer Renee Hahnel, known as Renee Roaming, has curated a list that includes a glamping site in Patagonia, an oceanfront villa in French Polynesia, and a luxury resort in Arizona. Users can explore her Travel Shop and book these destinations seamlessly through Expedia.
This platform not only offers a new revenue stream for influencers but also allows travel content to remain available on Expedia’s platform rather than disappearing as it often does on social media. Although the commission structure has not been disclosed, the move represents a more sustained form of monetization for influencers who rely on their travel expertise to engage followers.
According to Lauri Metrose, Senior Vice President of Global Communications at Expedia Group, the new feature aligns with how travelers already get inspiration from platforms like Instagram and TikTok. By offering an easy transition from browsing travel content to booking trips, Travel Shops simplifies the process for users and provides a natural evolution in travel planning.
Travel Shops initially launched with over 100 influencers and partners, including prominent travel influencers like Brett Conti and Oneika Raymond, as well as celebrities like actor Jaime Camil and soccer star Virgil van Dijk. Corporate partners, such as Arsenal FC and several tourism boards, including Visit Orlando and Travel Alberta, are also participating to promote unique lodging options and experiences.
In addition to influencers, media outlets like Condé Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure, and Variety are expected to create their own Travel Shops, giving their readers the chance to discover and book special travel experiences. The platform is currently available in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, with plans to expand into more markets in the future.
Following this initial launch, Expedia plans to open up the Travel Shops platform to all users next year, further enhancing the way people plan and book travel by integrating social media influence with direct booking tools.
