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US: TikTok has formally launched in-app travel booking through its new TikTok GO platform, expanding its push into travel discovery and commerce.
The social media platform has partnered with Booking.com, Expedia, Trip.com, Viator, GetYourGuide and Tiqets to allow users in the United States to search for and book accommodation and travel experiences directly within the app.
TikTok said the feature enables users aged 18 and over to move from travel inspiration to booking without leaving the platform.
The launch follows a limited accommodation booking test carried out with Booking.com last year, which was initially rolled out to a small percentage of US users.
TikTok GO integrates booking options into travel-related videos, search results and location pages, while also introducing commission opportunities for creators promoting hotels, attractions and experiences through the TikTok Creator Center.
Adam Presser, CEO of TikTok USDS Joint Venture, said the platform was aiming to connect travel inspiration more directly with booking opportunities.
“Every day on TikTok, millions of people discover where to eat, where to stay and what to do next,” he said.
Booking.com vice president of partnerships Mark van der Linden said the partnership could help reduce friction between travel discovery and booking.
“By bringing Booking.com directly into the TikTok journey, travellers can move from discovering a dream accommodation in a video to securing their stay in just a few taps,” he said.
TikTok GO is currently only available in the US, although TikTok has previously launched similar travel-focused initiatives in Indonesia and Japan.
Highlights:
- TikTok has officially launched in-app travel booking through its new TikTok GO platform in the United States.
- Travel partners include Booking.com, Expedia, Trip.com, Viator, GetYourGuide and Tiqets. Users can now discover and book accommodation and travel experiences directly within the TikTok app.
- TikTok GO also introduces commission opportunities for creators promoting hotels, attractions and experiences.
- The launch follows earlier testing with Booking.com and reflects growing overlap between social media, travel discovery and online booking.
