Travel Startups and Innovation News

PhocusWire's in-depth coverage of the startups in the travel, tourism and hospitality industry, featuring news, analysis, interviews, research and more.

Startups are a powerful force driving innovation across the travel industry—from AI-driven personalization and fintech solutions to next-gen mobility and booking platforms. PhocusWire delivers the most relevant travel startups and innovation news, spotlighting emerging companies that are rethinking the way people search, book, and experience travel.

Emerging travel startups and innovations driving the industry forward

Our coverage highlights breakthrough ideas, early-stage funding rounds, and strategic partnerships that bring fresh energy to the travel ecosystem. Whether it's reshaping trip planning, optimizing operations, or solving pain points across the journey, travel startups are challenging incumbents and building the future of travel with agility and purpose.

VIDEO: The Big Picture for travel startups
News / Startups
VIDEO: The Big Picture for travel startups
By PhocusWire | October 27, 2021
travel startups have faced a tough time as they juggle costs, strategy and hopes for the future,... Read More
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News / Startups
Selfbook raises $25M in quest to reinvent hotel payments
By Mitra Sorrells | October 26, 2021
Selfbook says its software enables hotels to accept one-click payments on their websites while... Read More
PhocusWire Pulse: Startups In The Spotlight
News / Startups
PhocusWire Pulse: Startups In The Spotlight
By PhocusWire | October 25, 2021
For our eighth event this year, we focus on the trends and issues, challenges and opportunities for... Read More
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News / Startups
Tier rides away with $200M in funding
By Linda Fox | October 25, 2021
Tier plans to use its latest funding for acquisitions and strategic investments.... Read More
Wander bags $7M for home rental platform
News / Startups
Wander bags $7M for home rental platform
By Linda Fox | October 21, 2021
The investment is led by Redpoint Ventures and will go towards developing the platform and expanding... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Ultimate Travel Club offers subscriptions for discounts
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Ultimate Travel Club offers subscriptions for discounts
By Linda Fox | October 20, 2021
For a monthly fee, travelers get access to lower prices for hotels, holiday rentals, flights, car... Read More
Rezdy lands $5.6M investment, plans North America expansion
News / Startups
Rezdy lands $5.6M investment, plans North America expansion
By Linda Fox | October 19, 2021
Rezdy is planning product and engineering development with its latest funding, over three years on... Read More
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News / Startups
Startup accommodation platform CuddlyNest raises $3.5M
By Mitra Sorrells | October 14, 2021
Founded in 2017, CuddlyNest says it will use the funding to grow its team and add new product... Read More
STARTUP STAGE: Vintory helps vacation rental managers grow their inventory
Interview / Startups
STARTUP STAGE: Vintory helps vacation rental managers grow their inventory
By Jill Menze | October 12, 2021
Vintory claims it is the first and only company to focus exclusively on helping vacation rental... Read More
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News / Startups
Airalo raises $5.4M for digital SIM marketplace
By Mitra Sorrells | October 11, 2021
Airalo plans to increase its global coverage and in-app services, add to its teams and further develop... Read More
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Precision and predictability for travel marketing: Essential visitor intelligence to drive growth
September 9, 2025
Precision and predictability for travel marketing: Essential visitor intelligence to drive growth
 In partnership with Zartico, this video series explores the latest trends and delivers practical... Read More
Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
August 19, 2025
Get real: The power of combining AI with authentic intelligence
Chris Hemmeter from Thayer Investment Partners outlines his thoughts on the importance of balancing AI... Read More
Changing traveler patterns, evolving customer needs drive demand for travel insurance
May 6, 2025
Changing traveler patterns, evolving customer needs drive demand for travel insurance
Travel protection is bringing peace of mind for travelers and positive rewards for suppliers.... Read More