One of the tech advances that stand out is the QR code and this tech tool has become very useful in today’s current situation. QR code technology is used to strengthen health protocols and to ensure touchless methods in the travel industry services.
Because of the rapid spread of COVID-19, the travel industry across the world has been affected resulting in business closures and financial losses.
It challenged both lives and livelihood as it moves like a wave worldwide and countries are racing to slow the spread of the virus by imposing quarantine measures, cancelling flights and large gatherings, implementing travel restrictions, and more.
We are experiencing a new world altogether, and the travel industry has to overcome the intertwined health, social and economic impacts of the pandemic by implementing the best and most innovative technology- the QR code.
What is a QR code?
QR code or also known as Quick Response code is a two-dimensional barcode first designed in 1994 for the automotive industry in Japan.
This matrix of squares and patterns is capable of storing lots of data such as an image file, a URL address, a PDF document, or an audio file.
When scanned, the QR code should allow the user to access information instantly, making tedious processes simple and convenient. Today, a QR code is can be generated with the use of a QR code generator online which adds up to the convenience this technology can give to all.
5 ways to use QR code in the travel industry
QR code technology is efficient to use and cost-effective for the travel industry to implement. It allows the travel industry to lessen touchpoints in providing services to tourists and stakeholders.
Here are the 5 ways to use QR code in the travel industry:
1. QR code for boarding
The involvement of QR codes in delivering airline boarding passes will not only enable the passengers’ smooth transit through the airport, but also will take them immediately to the airline’s onboard sales port.
QR codes as used in mobile check-in counters streamline the check-in procedure as opposed to the conventional long lines.
2. QR code as a travel guide
Visiting a foreign country can be more interesting with QR codes. Tourists can easily access travel-related information on their smartphones. The tech tool as an information point serves as a portal for tourists to know more about destinations and the history of the tourist spots.
You can do this by using File QR code solutions such as converting video into QR code or having the PDF QR code for easy travel guide dissemination.
3. Contact tracing
Most countries are using QR codes as means for contact tracing and follow people who are vaccinated. It easily allows contact tracers to monitor the people who might have come in contact with people who are tested positive with COVID-19 or who are fully vaccinated against the illness.
For the end-users, it allows them to safely register themselves whenever they visit an area by scanning the code for contact tracing purposes. Thus, this tech tool becomes an essential means to ensure the safety and wellbeing of tourists.
4. Touch-free payment
Financial institutions are now using QR codes to offer convenient payment options for tourists.
Travelers can directly pay to merchants by simply scanning a QR code.
This also minimizes the risks of contamination and spread of the virus as cash or card payments are lessened.
5. Hotel operations and management
Hotels are also using QR codes as the safety of their guests becomes their top priority.
Some hotels are using QR codes to direct guests to their website to book direct or to get to know about the nearby must-see attractions and activities in the area.
QR code is also used for seamless and contactless mobile check-in.
The food and beverage outlets of the hotels make use of digital menus available by scanning a menu QR code.
Other hotels and resorts are engaging guests while at the same time boosting their social media presence.
Guests can scan social media QR code to easily follow or like the social media pages of the hotel, they’re staying in and to get real-time updates and discounts.
Conclusion
With the surge of QR code usage due to mobile phones and internet penetration, the travel industry is expected to use this technology even post-pandemic.
This game-changing tool helps the travel industry streamline processes such as boarding in airlines, contact tracing, booking a hotel, and exploring information of must-see destinations.
Most importantly, QR code technology helps the travel industry to ensure that the well-being of travelers and citizens in an easy way with the use of a QR code generator with logo to create customized QR codes for travel.