The holidays are here again(how did this year go by so fast?), and if you’re like me you probably have some travel coming up- to visit family, reunite with friends or, hopefully, to get away from the craziness that comes with the holidays (ie a trip to a beach?). If you’re a seasoned traveler you probably already have your noise-cancelling, wireless headphones packed- but you may not be aware of all the convenience, comfort and security the Internet of Things is providing to people on the go.

Did you know that travel, transportation, and hospitality are the top industries for IoT spending, according to a 2015 study? Industry executives project organizations will spend an average of $128.9 million on IoT initiatives this year. Internet of Things adoption is already being seen by many major airlines, hotels, and rent-a-car companies. For example…

Faster Flights: Miami International Airport is a leading adopter of IoT technology, and is the first airport in the United States to use Bluetooth beacons to provide passengers with valuable traveling insights. MIA’s app can alert passengers to their gate, flight times, and baggage collection. The app also to highlights food and retail offerings, prioritized by their location in the terminal. Talk about making a trip convenient.

The London City Airport has a similar program, allowing security checkpoints to communicate with travelers’ devices to share the latest estimated wait times and delays.

BLIP Systems is working with airports internationally to manage travel times, queue times, and movement patterns with the help of Bluetooth sensors. JFK, Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International, and San Diego International airports all use this technology, as well as a long list of overseas terminals.

It’s important to note that many airlines use sensors to collect real-time information on aircraft systems to optimize fuel consumption and monitor maintenance concerns, creating less delays for passengers.

Homey Hotels: Many hotels are already equipped with IoT systems to help streamline operations. Sensors allow the hospitality industry to manage heating, ventilation, A/C, security, plumbing, and elevators. Sensor-enabled shipments allow hotels to plan for any service disruptions to guests, and proximity sensors allow guests to help navigate their area.

As for guests, they can interact with a room’s light bulbs, devices, and electrical plugs as more hotels use IoT sensors.

Connected Cars: Volvo announced earlier this year that it will become the first car manufacturer to develop a keyless car, rolling out their new service first with rental cars. Using Bluetooth, drivers can access their rental vehicle with an app, allowing them to unlock and start the car remotely.

“Mobility needs are evolving and so are our customers’ expectation to access cars in an uncomplicated way,” said Henrik Green, Vice President Product Strategy & Vehicle Line Management at Volvo Cars. Plus, no more lost keys.

Travelers also have increased control and convenience with Bluetooth while traveling, thanks to many devices and apps we already use.

• Wearables: Our daily wearable devices provide insights to our health, heart rate, sleep patterns, and daily activities. Regardless of the time zone or turkey helping, wearables help users maintain a normal exercise schedule while away from home.

• Quiet Listening: Bluetooth headphones are a staple of every traveler’s carry-on bag. Noise cancelling, wireless, and sharp audio quality help remove the sounds of traveling on a plane or in the back of a car.

• Home Security: Homeowners increasingly use sensors, smart devices, and cameras to help monitor their abodes. Apps that turn on and off lights at home, check for packages left on the front porch, and even lock and unlock doors with ease, regardless of your location.

• Backpack Security: Bluetooth sensors allow travelers to keep a close eye on their own belongings. Tags can be added to laptops, luggage, and other accessories, which will cause your phone to beep if you leave an item behind. This same feature can also help you search for misplaced items in your hotel room.

We continue to see our members launch incredible products and solutions that make travel more convenient, safe and ultimately less stressful. So, whether you’re planning a trip to Poughkeepsie or hiding out on the island of Bora Bora, we at Bluetooth SIG hope you have a fantastic holiday season filled. And, safe travels!

(Credit: Katy Scheck)