In the U.S., the number of long-distance trips during the Christmas and New Year's holiday period increases by 23% compared to the average number of trips throughout the year. With high travel statistics like these, it is crucial for both businesses and consumers to understand the trends that drive the travel industry so they are prepared.

In a new blog post, MarketResearch.com covers three of the top trends that are shaping the travel industry. These include social media, growth of mobile shopping, and the sharing economy.

Social media is becoming one of the most commonly used tools for travel companies. Social media helps fuel word-of-mouth marketing and encourages referrals.

The percentage of people who use mobile devices to purchase travel increased from 23% in 2012 to 38% in 2014. Mobile devices are also commonly used to research trips. Mobile-friendly designs are essential if travel companies want to keep up with this growing trend.

The sharing economy is one of the fastest growing areas in travel and transportation. Companies like Uber and Airbnb are changing the landscape for traditional hotels and cab companies. The popularity of these options has caught on with budget-conscious travelers and high-end consumers.

As many prepare for their 2015 holiday and winter vacations, the trends discussed will play a large role in how people plan and book their vacations.