Protecting Specialized Travel Equipment
The Rise in Adventure Tourism and Specialized Travel Equipment
According to Business Research Insights, the global adventure tourism market size of USD 2.62 billion in 2025 is projected to reach USD 3.17 billion in 2026. To equip all these adventure tourists, the global outdoor gear and equipment market is projected to grow from around USD 60 billion in 2025 to more than USD 110 billion by 2035.
A mix of lifestyle and consumer trends drives this meteoric rise:
- Rising disposable income and middle-class expansion in North America, Europe and parts of Asia
- A cultural shift toward spending more time outdoors in national parks and wilderness destinations
- The growing popularity of adventure tourism and wellness travel
- Increased participation in sports like skiing, hiking, rock climbing, scuba diving and triathlon
- Greater awareness of sustainability and high-performance materials
Consumers are investing more in premium, specialized equipment and they demand levels of protection to ensure their gear travels safely.
The adventure tourism trend opens the door for luggage and travel goods manufacturers to create protective travel solutions that match the value of the equipment. From ski and scuba to triathlon and climbing, one thing is clear: people are investing in premium outdoor gear.
Osprey - Sojourn Series featuring Travel Sentry ID
Adventure Tourism Market Segmentation
The adventure tourism market can be divided into two main types, soft and hard adventure, and into different traveler types.
Soft Adventure: Low-risk, leisure-oriented activities such as hiking, wildlife safaris and cultural exploration. These experiences attract travelers seeking immersion in nature, without intense physical effort.
Think Tank Photo - Airport Security™ V3.0 featuring TSA lock
Hard Adventure: High-intensity, physical activities such as mountain climbing, trekking in remote regions and extreme sports. This segment draws thrill-seekers willing to take risks and invest in specialized gear which performs in extreme conditions.
Dakine - Fall Line Ski Roller Hardside featuring TSA lock
Traveler Types:
- Solo travelers – seek independence, self-discovery and flexible itineraries.
- Groups – travel with organized tours, prioritizing safety and shared experiences.
- Families – look for safe, active trips suitable for all ages.
- Couples – combine adventure and connection through active, shared travel.
As participation across all categories grows, so does the need for reliable protection for climbing ropes and dive tanks to skis, bikes and triathlon gear.
Scicon Sports - Aerotech Evolution x TSA Bike Travel Case comes with four TSA locks
Adventure Travel and the Need for Protection
Trips that include cycling, skiing, or diving often involve multiple flights, transfers and unpredictable environments. Equipment is handled repeatedly, exposed to moisture or impact and needs to arrive ready for use.
This is where protective luggage becomes essential. Manufacturers and brands can take advantage of this lifestyle change by designing products that are functional, durable and secure for travel. Outdoor travelers want the confidence to know their equipment will reach its destination safely, whether it’s a ski trip in Colorado or a diving expedition in the Philippines.
DB x New Amsterdam Surf Association
Ways to Protect Premium Outdoor Gear
1. Travel Sentry® Approved systems: Locks approved by Travel Sentry® allow airport security to open and re-lock luggage safely during inspection, reducing the risk of forced entry or damage.
2. Specialized luggage with integrated locks: Purpose-built gear bags and cases designed with built-in TSA locking systems provide secure protection for high-value items such as skis, diving gear or triathlon bikes. Integrated locks keep equipment safe while allowing for easy access during travel.
Dakine - Fall Line Ski Roller Hardside featuring TSA lock
3. Travel Sentry ID: Digital identification tags (TSID) connect luggage and owners through a unique online ID, helping recover misplaced gear and offering peace of mind for travelers carrying valuable equipment.
Osprey - Sojourn Series featuring Travel Sentry ID
4. Post-market padlocks: For new and existing luggage and travel gear, quality TSA padlocks remain a simple, effective solution to secure bags and equipment.
As adventure travel, adventure tourists and high-performance outdoor sports continue to grow, the need for protective travel solutions grows too. When you invest in your gear, your luggage should be part of the investment.