'Gate lice' and 'seat squatters' among 2024's most viral travel trends

Many Americans traveled far and wide across the U.S. throughout 2024.

Travelers may have participated in, or noticed, a few different travel trends that emerged in 2024.

As 2024 wraps up and the New Year of 2025 soon begins, here is a round-up of some of the biggest travel trends of the past year.

"Gate lice" refers to passengers who cut lines in the hope of boarding a flight early.

The system audibly flags when a passenger attempts to board the plane before his or her designated assignment is called - and will automatically reject the person's ticket.

Dubbed "mattress runs," the fad has people booking hotel rooms in order to earn free nights or accumulate status points.

Alston Causey, vice president of Travelmation, a U.S.-based travel agency, told Fox News Digital, "A 'mattress run' is more for people who are on the cusp and tend to find themselves there every year."

TikTok users posted videos showing their participation in the trend, with one creator sharing a series of travel videos titled "Traveling with No Bags, Just Vibes."

In 2023, airlines made over $33 billion in baggage fees, FOX Business reported.

The term "seat squatters" refers to airline passengers who occupy seats not assigned to them, hoping to secure a more desirable spot without paying extra fees. 

This trend has gained attention on social media, with travelers sharing experiences of confronting such individuals.

Travel industry expert Gary Leff, based in Texas, emphasized that passengers are entitled to the seat indicated on their boarding pass.

He suggested that those seeking a different seat should politely request a swap, offering a reasonable trade in return.

The concept of "sleep divorce," in which couples choose to sleep separately to enhance their sleep quality, has been gaining in popularity, especially during vacations. 

"This trend reflects a growing awareness that sleep is crucial not only for personal health and well-being but also for relationship health," said Troxel.