Choi Hye-jung, a 40-something office worker, often finds herself in a dilemma when planning overseas trips with her family. While she prefers independent travel over fixed itineraries, the task of booking flights and accommodations, along with arranging local transportation, dining, and entry tickets to attractions, can be overwhelming. This is especially true when traveling with young children or elderly parents, as unexpected health issues or accidents can leave her feeling lost in an unfamiliar place.
Choi is not alone in her struggle. Many travelers who favor independent travel also find it challenging to manage all the preparations and local bookings on their own. Hana Tour has recently recognized this demand that lies between package tours and independent travel.
In June, Hana Tour introduced the 'Hana Free Pack,' which combines flights and hotels with the option for travelers to select additional local experiences and itineraries based on their preferences.
This package allows travelers to book flights and accommodations through the agency while choosing how to spend their time at the destination. It targets those who find both traditional package tours and fully independent travel burdensome.
The launch of this product reflects a shift in travel consumption patterns. As independent travel becomes more common, there is a growing demand for travelers to select their own itineraries and experiences, yet the time and effort required for research and bookings remain the responsibility of the traveler. Finding and reserving local transportation, meals, and entry tickets can be daunting, especially for those with limited travel experience or families traveling with children.
Hana Tour has leveraged its established local network from its package tours to enhance the Hana Free Pack. Travelers can choose their desired itineraries and experiences, while Hana Tour offers 'Local Tour Plus' for those cumbersome arrangements that require planning and operation.
To address potential emergencies during travel, Hana Tour has implemented a 24-hour emergency support service called 'H-Care,' which provides assistance with local hospital referrals, medical transportation, and translation services. This service is designed to help travelers, especially those traveling alone or with young children or elderly parents, in urgent situations.
Hana Tour aims to expand its customer base with the Hana Free Pack, targeting not only existing independent travelers but also those who desire the convenience of package tours without the constraints of group schedules. The company anticipates demand will grow among busy professionals, middle-aged travelers seeking flexibility, and families traveling with children or parents.
A representative from Hana Tour stated, “This product was developed to address the discomfort experienced by independent travelers overwhelmed by information searches and package travelers feeling constrained by fixed itineraries. It is designed to maintain itinerary flexibility while utilizing local infrastructure and emergency support services.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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