Marriott International is stepping deeper into the adventure travel space by acquiring Postcard Cabins and signing a long-term partnership with Trailborn, a boutique hotel brand focused on outdoor destinations. This move positions Marriott to tap into the booming outdoor lodging market while enhancing its appeal to loyalty members.

“Marriott has long been committed to offering incredible travel experiences for every trip purpose,” Leeny Oberg, Marriott’s chief financial officer and executive vice president of development, said in a statement. “As guests are increasingly interested in nature-immersive travel, we are excited to build on the incredible breadth of our portfolio and welcome the Postcard Cabins and Trailborn portfolios to Marriott Bonvoy as we deliver more accommodations and experiences in awe-inspiring destinations.”

Postcard Cabins: Rustic Meets Rewarding

Credit. Postcard Cabins. Marriott Adds Postcard Cabins To Portfolio.

Postcard Cabins is known for upscale cabins designed to offer immersive nature experiences with premium comforts. Their properties feature well-appointed cabins in scenic, remote locations — ideal for travelers looking to disconnect while enjoying stylish accommodations.

With the Marriott acquisition, there is strong potential for Postcard Cabins to be integrated into the Marriott Bonvoy program, allowing members to earn and redeem points for unique outdoor escapes. Imagine booking a secluded cabin using points rather than cash — a significant win for outdoor travel enthusiasts.

Trailborn Boutique Hotels: Adventure With Style

Credit. Trailborn. Trailborn Boutique Hotels: Estes Park.

The new Marriott partnership with Trailborn expands its presence near national parks and iconic outdoor destinations. The boutique hotels from Trailborn combine adventure access with modern design, providing the perfect balance of exploration and comfort. Though Marriott has not confirmed whether Trailborn will join the Bonvoy program, history suggests it could happen soon. If integrated, travelers could use points for stylish stays near adventure hubs, turning aspirational trips into points-funded realities.

Following Industry Trends: Outdoor Stays Are Booming

The latest moves by Marriott align with broader industry trends. The outdoor hospitality segment, including glamping and adventure-focused lodging, has seen explosive growth in recent years:

• Market Growth: The global glamping market is projected to reach $5.94 billion by 2030, driven by increased demand for socially distanced, nature-focused travel.
• Post-Pandemic Surge: The pandemic accelerated interest in outdoor experiences, with travelers seeking safe, open-air environments. This trend shows no signs of slowing down.

Credit. AutoCamp. Hilton Honors Formed A Partnership With Autocamp in 2024.

Competitors have already made similar moves:

• Hilton x AutoCamp: Hilton announced a partnership with Autocamp, known for Airstream camper stays in national park destinations like Yosemite and Zion.
• Hyatt x Under Canvas: Hyatt teamed up with Under Canvas (via the Mr & Mrs Smith brand), offering safari-style tents near popular parks like Yellowstone and Moab.

The Marriott acquisition of Postcard Cabins and partnership with Trailborn places it squarely in competition with these outdoor-focused offerings.

What This Means For Marriott Bonvoy Members

For Marriott Bonvoy members, these developments could unlock new ways to earn and redeem points for nature-centric getaways. Key benefits could include:

• Points For Outdoor Stays: Earn points on cabin and lodge stays that were previously cash-only options.
• Nature Escape Redemptions: Redeem points for unique accommodations near iconic outdoor destinations.
• Elite Perks Expansion: Enjoy potential perks like room upgrades, late check-outs, or special adventure packages.

Related: The Best Credit Cards For Marriott Bonvoy

Final Thoughts

The push by Marriott into the outdoor lodging market signals a major win for points-savvy travelers. If Postcard Cabins and Trailborn are added to the Bonvoy program, members will have exciting new ways to combine rewards with adventure. Keep an eye out for announcements about when these properties will join Bonvoy and start planning your next outdoor escape!