Digital as a whole is probably the most rapidly-changing business sphere around, and marketing is no exception. To demonstrate this, let us transport you back in time, to the bygone age of 2015, when fidget spinners were at their peak, Facebook seemed unstoppable in the realm of social media, Siri and Alexa were still novelties, and “Doge” was only a Shiba Inu from a meme. Here are some of the biggest changes in digital marketing to have happened since then:

The Voice Search/Smart Device Fad

Speaking of Siri and Alexa – these two “game-chaning technologies” of yesteryear never really lived up to the hype. When the Amazon Echo launched in 2014 and Google Home followed in 2016, predictions were bold: “50% of all searches will be voice searches by 2020” predicted Andrew Ng of Chinese search engine Baidu, in 2014. Smart speakers flew off shelves, and brands scrambled to develop voice strategies.

And then… No seismic shift occurred. Though that 50% figure was still bandied around until the pandemic, voice technology just took its place in our lives alongside everything else. It certainly wasn’t the game-changer everyone expected.

Speaking of the Pandemic:

The eCommerce Explosion

Online shopping jumped ahead by 5 years in just 3 months during 2020. eCommerce sales grew by 77% versus 2019, and even brands that had always held with traditional strategies and never considered digital sales suddenly needed online stores overnight. Physical retailers faced a stark choice: go digital or go dark. Those who moved quickly captured market share. Those who waited often didn’t survive.

This wasn’t some temporary shift, either. Despite falling slightly from its peak in January 2021, as a proportion of total retail sales, eCommerce has consistently remained above 25%. Pre-pandemic, the highest it had ever been was 21.6%, in November 2018 (boosted by Black Friday and Cyber Monday)

Personalisation and Authenticity

With everyone shut up in their homes for long stretches of 2020 and 2021, people were dying for some personal connection, and nowhere was this more influential than in digital marketing. Screen time skyrocketed, social media usage surged, and big video shoots with high production values became impossible, giving way to more low-key, relatable marketing efforts, often filmed on smartphones. 

Brands that thrived showed up as they really were:

• CEOs speaking from their kitchens
• Staff showcasing products from their apartments
• User-generated content replacing studio photography

This wasn’t just out of necessity—it worked better. Engagement rates for authentic content jumped, and this further bolstered the trend of mobile devices becoming dominant in the digital marketing game.

Mobile Dominance

Between 2015 and 2025, mobile went from “important” to “everything.” In 2015, mobile-friendly was a bonus. Today, it’s the baseline. Smartphone usage skyrocketed, making mobile-first design and marketing essential for any business hoping to compete. When over 60% of all internet use is on mobile devices, choosing to neglect phone users with your marketing is throwing away the majority of your audience.

With how ever-present mobile phones had become in peoples’ lives throughout the world came the rise of influencer marketing.

The Micro-Influencer Revolution

The influencer landscape has completely transformed since 2015. What began as brands chasing celebrities with millions of followers has evolved into something far more effective: partnerships with creators who speak directly to exactly the right audience. 

In 2015, marketing teams measured success by follower count alone. A celebrity with 5 million followers seemed like a better investment than someone with 50,000. But the power of smaller creators comes from relationship quality. Their followers see them as trusted friends rather than distant celebrities. When a beauty micro-influencer recommends a skincare product, their recommendation carries the weight of personal advice from someone who knows your specific concerns.

And speaking of trusted friends…

Social Media Evolution

Social platforms, already well into their ascendence in 2015, took centre stage in the following decade, transforming from simple connection tools to full marketing ecosystems. Instagram embraced visual commerce, TikTok created short-form video dominance, and Facebook (rather infamously in 2016) became embroiled in political controversy that forever changed how we view social media’s role in shaping public opinion and consumer behaviour.

Which brings us perfectly to our next point:

Privacy Changes & First-Party Data

The public backlash following the Cambridge Analytica scandal in 2018 resulted in many governments (and brands) introducing laws to curb the data-collection free-for-all that had been building up. This led to the data landscape transforming dramatically with GDPR, CCPA, and Apple’s privacy changes disrupting tracking capabilities. No longer could data be collected indiscriminately and held indefinitely. The reasons for data being collected had to be started, and users given the ability to opt out. This completely shifted how brands approached targeting, moving from a largely outward-focusing strategy based on customer characteristics, and towards building direct relationships and first-party data collection strategies.

And finally, on the subject of data:

AI & Automation

While the biggest talking point around AI in recent years has been generative AI, machine learning and automation has been steadily transforming how digital marketing is performed for a while now. 

AI bid management can analyse thousands of signals in milliseconds to place ads exactly when your ideal customer is ready to buy, shift budgets automatically to your best-performing channels, and even predict what your best creative will be, just based on the data you provide.

Chatbots can now handle the majority of routine customer enquiries while also collecting valuable first-party data, qualifying leads and working 24/7.  This trend will only continue, and is likely to be the driving force behind the next wave of digital marketing innovation.

The New Digital Marketing Reality

The digital landscape has transformed beyond recognition in the last decade. The companies thriving today understand that digital marketing isn’t just about being present online—it’s about creating meaningful connections in the spaces where customers actually spend their time.

At Invanity Marketing, we are at the forefront of digital marketing’s evolution, using the latest and most powerful tools available to create campaigns that deliver measurable results. We’re not interested in vanity metrics that look impressive in reports but fail to generate actual revenue. We focus on creating digital campaigns that drive towards a single result – achieving your business goals.

The sun breaks through the windshield. The road curves ahead like a ribbon. Somewhere in the back seat, snacks are already open. Feels like freedom — until a tire blows, the GPS dies, and the engine light flickers.

Road trips are romantic. But they’re also a risk. A gamble, if done blind. Is it possible to make one stress-free?

Absolutely. But only if you treat it like a mission — not a mood.

Eliminate the Unknowns Before the First Turn

Before the playlist, before the coffee flask, before booking the Airbnb — ask one question: Is your car road-trip-ready? Not just clean. Not just fueled. Verified.

And that starts with the VIN.

Use the Vingurus VIN Lookup before buying a used car for your road trip. This tool reveals hidden truths: accident records, mileage rollbacks, flood damage, failed inspections. A car can sparkle on the outside and still carry a bruised history inside.

You wouldn’t hike a mountain without checking your boots. Don’t drive cross-country without checking your engine’s past.

The Maintenance Checklist That Saves Sanity

You can’t fix problems mid-desert. That’s why prevention isn’t optional — it’s survival.

Here’s your no-fail pre-trip list:

• Oil level — If it’s thick or gritty, change it. No delay.

• Brake pads — No squeak, no grind, no guesswork.

• Battery — Corroded terminals = warning sign.

• Tires — Tread depth should be no less than 3mm. Carry a pressure gauge and fill all four — plus the spare.

• Lights — Not just headlights. Check turn signals, brake lights, reverse lights.

• Coolant + wiper fluid — Simple, cheap, critical.
  

Missing one item on this list? That’s the stress knocking early.

Route Planning Isn’t Overthinking — It’s Intelligence

Spontaneity is fun. Until you’re lost in a no-signal zone with no gas station for 30 miles.

A smart route includes:

• Fuel stops every 150–200 miles

• Emergency exits or towns within reach

• Backup roads in case of closures

• Daylight driving hours only — avoid fatigue and wildlife
  

Use physical maps as backups. Batteries die. Apps crash. And no one wants to ask a stranger for directions at 11 p.m. in rural Kansas.

Comfort Is Not Luxury — It’s Endurance

Eight hours in a car isn’t a cruise. It’s a challenge. Treat it that way.

Invest in:

• Neck pillows that don’t shift

• Refillable water bottles — dehydration hits harder while driving

• Audiobooks and podcasts for mental stimulation

• Light blankets for backseat naps
  

Don’t forget airflow. A stuffy car is a mutiny waiting to happen. Especially if the A/C decides to protest midway through Texas.

And snacks? Pack real food. Protein, fiber, energy. Candy fuels crashes — literal and metabolic.

Unexpected Stops Happen. Don’t Let Them Break You.

Flat tire? Reroute. Torn wiper blade? Detour. These aren’t disasters — unless you’re unprepared.

Build your emergency kit like a pro:

• Jumper cables

• Portable tire inflator

• Multi-tool

• Duct tape (yes, really)

• First-aid kit

• Flashlight with fresh batteries
  

Bonus move? Preload local mechanic reviews along your route. If the worst happens, you already know who to call. Stress isn’t in the breakdown. It’s in the blind panic that follows — unless you remove it with prep.

Don’t Let Money Become the Emergency

A budget shouldn’t end at fuel and food. That’s the rookie mistake.

Add a buffer — $300 minimum — for:

• Unexpected toll roads

• Hotel changes due to weather

• Sudden car parts (like a cracked hose)

• Medical supplies or pharmacy stops
  

Split cash and card. Keep some bills hidden in the glove box or spare shoe. Not for spending. For backup. Think ahead, and stress loses its grip.

And remember — not every gas station takes cards. Especially outside major highways. One missed fill-up can cascade into a nightmare.

Co-Drivers: Blessing or Breakdown?

Traveling with someone sounds dreamy. Until music wars break out. Until the third bathroom stop in one hour. Until one person forgets to navigate — again.

Here’s the solution: rules.

Agree on this before departure:

• Driving shifts and rest breaks

• Music veto power (limit it to one per hour)

• Snack ownership (the person who buys it, chooses it)

• No shame in silence. Long rides don’t require constant talk.
  

Bonus tip: Make the non-driver the “spotter.” Their job? Signs, alerts, maps, and vibes. If the vibe’s off — pull over. Trust the human radar more than the GPS.

Insurance Pitfalls That Kill the Vibe

Your policy covers road trips, right? Are you sure?

Some insurers limit coverage by region or mileage. Some require you to inform them before crossing state lines. And rental coverage? A minefield.

Call ahead. Ask directly:

• Will I be covered in every state I plan to drive through?

• What happens if my car is towed from a remote area?

• Will roadside assistance be available, or do I need a separate plan?
  

And if you’re borrowing a car — check if you’re even allowed to. One misunderstanding can turn a minor fender-bender into a $5,000 disaster.

Real Story: The Road Trip That Almost Ended in Flames

Three friends. One used SUV. 900 miles to Colorado. Spirits high. Cooler full. Music loud.

Day two, desert highway, 103°F. Smoke from the hood. Panic.

The radiator hose had split. The engine overheated fast. No mechanic for 50 miles. They had no coolant, no tools, no idea what was happening.

They used bottled water. Limped to a motel. Waited 18 hours for a tow.

The twist? That hose had shown signs of wear before they left. But “it looked fine.” A $20 part became a $1,200 setback.

Lesson? If a part looks old, replace it. If a sound feels off, check it. Doubt = action.

How to Actually Return Home in Peace

The trip ends where it started — in your driveway. But stress doesn’t always get out of the car.

Avoid that final crash by:

• Leaving one full day after your return free. No work. No obligations.

• Cleaning out the car the same night. Junk multiplies fast.

• Refueling the tank before you park — your future self will thank you.

And take 10 minutes to journal highlights. Memory blurs fast. But the details — the dog with sunglasses at a gas stop, the detour that led to the best diner you’ve ever found — those stay if you write them down.

The Final Truth: Stress-Free Doesn’t Mean Problem-Free

Let’s be real. Road trips aren’t a spa. They’re dynamic. They’re unpredictable. But stress-free doesn’t mean “nothing goes wrong.” It means nothing knocks you down when it does.

Preparedness is peace. Knowledge is calm. And the more control you take before the drive, the less chaos can creep in after the ignition.

It’s not about luck. It’s about loadout. And mindset.

Conclusion: It’s Not a Trip. It’s a Test.

Every road trip tests more than tires. It tests your planning. Your patience. Your resilience.

Want to win? Start smart:

• Inspect the car. Trust data. Use Vingurus VIN Lookup before you even hit the maps.

• Prepare like it’s a mission. Not a movie.

• Pack for problems — not just photos.

• Respect rest. Structure silence. Feed the machine. Feed yourself.
  

Stress-free isn’t a fantasy. It’s a strategy. And it begins long before the wheels move. It begins with awareness. Ends with memories. And runs on decisions made before stress has the chance to show up.

New Zealand offers travelers a lot to explore: from breathtaking natural beauty to friendly locals, you’ll find everything you’re looking for. But like any other country, New Zealand has its own local laws, and some of them can be pretty “weird”. They have different regulations regarding everything, from protecting wild nature to online casinos like xon bet. As a traveler, you need to know about these laws and regulations, no matter how weird they are. That’s why we’ve put together this guide. Here’s what every traveler needs to know before embarking on a trip to the country of ‘adventure tourism’ origin.

Before We Start

Before we start, here is a quick reminder: If you are unsure about whether to declare something when you enter the country, declare it (no matter how simple) to avoid taking risks. As we will discuss below, New Zealand has stricter biosecurity laws than many other countries, and honesty is always the best policy. As a summary, here’s what to look out for in the country:

• You have to declare everything you carry with you that is organic.
• Avoid disturbing the whales.
• Respect the national
• Be aware that you will not be able to use some means of transportation.
• Your body mass index may prevent you from entering the country.
• Some natural wonders have a legal identity and are protected like a real person.

So, what do these rules and laws mean? Why might you not be able to enter New Zealand if you are overweight? They’re called weird laws for a reason – let’s take a closer look at them all.

Entering New Zealand

Let’s start from the beginning: there are a lot of weird things that can prevent you from entering. The first one is the “Biosecurity Act 1993”. This is considered to be one of the strictest biosecurity laws in the world and contains a lot of surprising regulations to protect the country’s ecosystem. The first one says that a traveler has to declare all the organic things they carry with them on the Passenger Arrival Card when entering the country. The scope of this is quite broad: in addition to fruits, meat products, plants and vegetables, you even have to declare your hiking boots, as their soles may contain soil or plant residues. If you forget to declare an apple you’re carrying in your pocket, your trip could be over before it even starts, as you will be denied entry.

But even if you declare everything you are carrying, there are still some things that can prevent you from entering. One of them is your body mass index (BMI). This is a serious risk for travelers (or immigrants) from countries that require a pre-visit visa. You have to declare your BMI when applying for an NZ visa, and if you are going to be staying for a long time, an above-normal BMI may result in your visa request being rejected. This rule is much more strictly enforced for immigrants. This is because New Zealand ranks in the top three most problematic countries in the world for obesity. The local obese are a serious burden on the health system, and for the same reason, obese immigrants and long-stay travelers can be denied (to avoid adding to the burden). So, you may need to lose some weight to start your trip.

Leave the Whales Alone

New Zealand has a lot of laws protecting wildlife and wilderness, but most of them are pretty obvious: as long as you don’t go and disturb wild animals, you should be fine. The problem is that some of the laws, like the Marine Mammals Protection Regulations, can be quite broad. There is a special regulation for whales, and it is forbidden to make loud or disturbing noises around them.

You can do what is prohibited here on land. For example, even if you don’t see whales around, listening to loud music near a harbor they frequent or setting off fireworks, even if you have permission, will cause you to violate this law. This can result in a fine of 10,000 NZD, so avoid making noise near the water, even if you don’t see whales.

The Currency Is Protected

The Reserve Bank of NZ Act 1989 prohibits defacing NZ banknotes, and like most other weird laws, it’s quite broad in scope. Thinking of writing something on a banknote and keeping it as a souvenir? Don’t do it, because you’ll be fined 1,000 NZD. Contrary to popular belief, this law is rigorously enforced. In 2000, a New Zealander, Taika Waititi (you may remember him from the movie Jojo Rabbit), painted a banknote and displayed it as a work of art. Because of this law, he had to pay a fine.

Transportation Rules Might Surprise You

When you are getting around, you might want to use a bicycle or an e-scooter, as many others do. The problem is that how these means of transportation should be used is dictated by their “wheel size”, and unless you know the law, you cannot intuitively understand this. In this context, you are not allowed to use bicycles on footpaths, but you can still use e-scooters. Yes, it’s weird, but remember that the law is based on the wheel size, not the type of transportation. Also, don’t be surprised if an e-scooter passes you on the sidewalk: it is allowed.

The River That’s Legally a Person

In New Zealand, there is a river called Whanganui, and in 2017, it was granted legal personhood. This means that in the eyes of the law, it is no different from a real person – every right that humans have applies to this river. The problem is that this also means that it is possible to ‘hurt’ the river. We’re not talking about doing things that pollute the river – that’s already banned. But if you “insult” the river by saying “bad things”, you are insulting a real person, and you will be prosecuted.

Be sure to check this list as you prepare for your trip to New Zealand, and don’t be afraid to ask the authorities if you are unsure about something: locals are friendly and will be happy to help you as long as you treat them with respect.

People around the world are spending more on leisure than ever before. Global leisure tourism spending has reached an impressive £4.2 trillion ($5.5 trillion) in 2024, showing a 24% growth compared to 2019 levels.

This significant rise reflects how much people value experiences and entertainment in their lives.

The shift towards leisure spending is a long-term trend, with inflation-adjusted spending on leisure activities increasing from 9.5 percent to nearly 13 percent of overall consumer spending.

Entertainment remains particularly resilient, with those who spent on entertainment in 2024 each spending £343 on average according to Barclays data.

Despite economic uncertainties, non-essential spending grew 2.7 percent recently, led by entertainment, health & beauty, and digital content subscriptions.

Live shows and concerts have been particularly popular, with spending increasing 6.7 percent as people continue to prioritise memorable experiences.

Overview of Global Leisure Spending

Consumer spending on leisure activities has increased significantly in recent years, with a shift in how people allocate their disposable income.

Despite economic fluctuations, the leisure sector continues to be resilient as consumers prioritise experiences over material goods.

Recent Spending Trends

The leisure sector has shown notable changes in consumer spending patterns. In inflation-adjusted terms, spending on leisure activities has grown from 9.5% to nearly 13% as a share of overall consumer spending. This indicates a significant shift in consumer priorities.

However, recent data from Deloitte shows some fluctuation. The leisure sector experienced a decline from -8.5% in Q3 2024 to -10% in Q4 2024 in total net spending.

Despite this quarterly dip, the industry continued to rebound in fiscal Q3 2024, with total net expenditure showing improvement from earlier figures, suggesting resilience in the face of economic challenges.

Discretionary spending patterns are evolving, with consumers allocating more budget to travel and recreation as their disposable income increases.

Comparison with Previous Years

The travel and tourism sector, a major component of leisure spending, has made remarkable progress in recovery. In 2023, this sector contributed 9.1% to the global GDP, representing a substantial 23.2% increase from 2022.

This recovery is particularly noteworthy as it places current performance at just 4.1% below the pre-pandemic 2019 level. The rapid rebound indicates strong consumer demand for leisure experiences despite economic pressures.

Moreover, digital entertainment platforms, such as kingdom casino no deposit bonus, are gaining traction as consumers look for engaging online leisure activities.

Year-on-Year Leisure Spending Growth:

Consumer behaviour trends suggest long-term growth potential in leisure spending, as more people prioritise experiences over material possessions.

Analysis by Region and Country

Regional variations in leisure spending reflect diverse economic conditions and cultural priorities. North American markets show strong recovery, with the United States leading in consumer confidence for discretionary spending on leisure activities.

European markets display more caution, with spending varying significantly between Northern and Southern European countries. The UK has experienced particular volatility, with consumer spending on leisure activities fluctuating with economic conditions.

Asia-Pacific regions demonstrate the fastest growth in leisure spending, particularly in:

• China: Rapid expansion in domestic tourism
• Southeast Asia: Strong recovery in international travel destinations
• India: Growing middle class with increasing leisure expenditure

Emerging markets are becoming increasingly significant contributors to global leisure spending. Countries with young populations and growing middle classes are experiencing the most dramatic increases in leisure-related expenditure.

Cultural factors also influence spending patterns, with some regions favouring group experiences while others show preference for individual leisure pursuits.

Factors Driving Consumer Spending Growth

Several key elements are fuelling the current surge in leisure activity expenditure worldwide. Economic conditions, shifting consumer values, and new technologies have created a perfect environment for increased spending on entertainment and recreational pursuits.

Increases in Disposable Income

The growth in consumer spending on leisure activities directly correlates with rising disposable income levels across developed nations. Recreation spending in the U.S. has seen significant increases, reflecting this economic prosperity. This upward trend isn’t isolated to America alone.

When examining historical data, leisure spending as a share of overall consumer expenditure has grown from 9.5 percent to nearly 13 percent in inflation-adjusted terms, according to Visa’s economic insights.

Wage growth has been particularly influential. NatWest Business identifies household earnings as a primary factor enabling increased spending on essentials, which frees up additional funds for discretionary leisure activities.

Shifts in Consumer Priorities

Today’s consumers demonstrate markedly different spending habits compared to previous generations. Post-pandemic priorities have evolved substantially, with greater emphasis placed on experiences rather than material possessions.

Key Priority Changes:

• Enhanced focus on wellbeing and mental health
• Greater value placed on shared experiences
• Increased willingness to spend on activities that create memories
• Growing preference for personalised leisure experiences

Mintel’s consumer research indicates that multiple crises have made consumers more savvy with their spending habits globally. This doesn’t mean reduced leisure spending, but rather more deliberate choices about which activities deliver the best value.

Sustainability has also emerged as a driving factor. Consumers increasingly demonstrate willingness to pay premium prices for leisure activities that align with environmental values.

Technological Advancements in Leisure

Technology has revolutionised how consumers engage with and spend on leisure activities. Digital platforms have reduced barriers to entry for many recreational pursuits whilst simultaneously creating entirely new categories of leisure spending.

Mobile applications, subscription services, and integrated payment systems have simplified access to entertainment options. Consumers can now book, participate in, and pay for leisure activities with unprecedented ease.

Virtual and augmented reality technologies have created immersive experiences that weren’t possible a decade ago. These innovations have particularly appealed to younger demographics, driving significant spending growth in digital leisure categories.

Key Technological Influences:

• Streaming services replacing traditional entertainment channels
• Mobile booking platforms simplifying activity participation
• Social media influencing leisure spending decisions
• AR/VR creating new experience-based spending opportunities

Smart devices have also integrated leisure into daily routines, expanding the market beyond traditional entertainment venues and formats.

Implications and Future Projections

The surge in leisure spending reflects changing consumer priorities and has far-reaching consequences for multiple sectors. These developments point to significant shifts in how people allocate their discretionary income.

Impact on the Leisure Industry

The rising trend in leisure spending is transforming business models across the recreation sector. Companies are adapting by creating more personalised experiences to capture the growing market.

Recreation spending in the US increased by 24% over a five-year period, whilst UK expenditure on leisure activities rose by 17%. This remarkable growth has encouraged substantial investment in facilities and services.

Theme parks, fitness centres, and entertainment venues are expanding their offerings to appeal to experience-hungry consumers. Digital transformation has become essential, with virtual experiences complementing physical ones.

Small businesses in the leisure sector face both opportunities and challenges. While overall spending is up, competition has intensified, requiring innovation and specialisation to survive in this evolving marketplace.

Potential Market Developments

Several key trends are likely to shape leisure spending in the coming years. Sustainability concerns are becoming central to consumer choices, with eco-friendly leisure options gaining popularity.

Technology integration will accelerate, with augmented and virtual reality creating new categories of leisure experiences. The share of consumer spending on leisure has grown from 9.5% to nearly 13% in inflation-adjusted terms, suggesting room for further innovation.

Demographic shifts are driving market segmentation:

• Millennials prioritise experiences over possessions
• Gen Z shows strong preference for social and digital experiences
• Older generations increasingly allocate retirement funds to leisure

Cross-industry partnerships will become more common as companies bundle complementary services to enhance value propositions.

Long-Term Spending Forecast

Economic projections indicate continued growth in leisure spending, though potentially at a more moderate pace than recent years.

Recent data shows consumer spending is set to increase by $2.3 trillion in 2024 alone.

Regional variations will become more pronounced:

Developing Markets: Rapid growth as middle classes expand Mature Markets: Slower growth with emphasis on premium experiences Urban Centres: Higher per capita spending on diverse leisure activities

Short-term fluctuations are likely, as evidenced by the decline in leisure sector spending from -8.5% to -10% between Q3 and Q4 2024 according to Deloitte’s Consumer Tracker.

Despite economic uncertainties, the fundamental shift towards experience-based consumption appears durable.

Businesses that understand changing consumer preferences and adapt accordingly will capture the greatest share of this expanding market.