Know How to Create a Travel App like Hopper in 2025

Ever wondered how to create an app like Hopper and tap into the booming travel tech space? 

If you are dreaming of building a smart travel solution that lets users book flights and hotels with ease, now is the perfect time. Apps like Hopper have completely changed the way people plan and book trips, thanks to their AI-driven insights and sleek user experience.

If you are planning to create a travel app like Hopper from scratch, this guide will walk you through every step. 

From features to cost and tech stack, it's all here. If you're ready to build a travel app like Hopper, you're in the right place.

What Is The Hopper App?

​Hopper is a mobile-only travel app designed to help users find the best deals on flights, hotels, rental cars, and vacation homes.

Launched in 2014, Hopper stands out for its predictive pricing feature, which uses artificial intelligence to analyze and forecast price trends. This allows travelers to identify the optimal times to book, potentially saving them money on their trips. ​

The app offers a user-friendly interface with a color-coded calendar, making it easy to spot the cheapest travel dates. 

Users can set up alerts for specific destinations, and Hopper will notify them when prices drop or are expected to rise. Additionally, features like "price freeze" and flexible cancellation options provide users with more control and flexibility over their bookings.

Key Facts about Hopper:

• • Founded: 2007 by Frederic Lalonde and Joost Ouwerkerk; app launched in 2014.
  • Headquarters: Montreal, Canada.
  • User Base: Over 120 million downloads, making it one of North America's most downloaded travel apps.
  • Core Features: AI-driven price predictions, price alerts, price freeze, and flexible booking options.
  • Recognition: Named one of Apple's Best Apps of 2015.

Hopper's innovative approach to travel booking, leveraging big data and AI, has made it a popular choice among travelers seeking to maximize savings and convenience.

Now that you’ve seen the top players in the travel app industry, let’s take a closer look at one of the most innovative among them, Hopper.

So, what exactly is the Hopper app and how does it work its magic to help users save on travel? Let’s break it down.

How Does the Hopper App Work?

The Hopper app uses smart technology to simplify the travel booking process and help you save money.

From finding the best time to book flights and hotels to offering features like price prediction and price freeze, Hopper ensures you make informed decisions.

Here's how the Hopper app works, explained in simple steps:

1. Search Your Travel Needs

Enter your travel destination, preferred dates, and whether you're booking a flight, hotel, rental car, or vacation home.

2. Get Smart Price Predictions

Hopper’s AI scans billions of prices daily and predicts the best time to book. It tells you whether to book now or wait for a better deal.

3. Watch Your Trip

If the app suggests waiting, tap “Watch This Trip.” Hopper will monitor prices 24/7 and send you alerts when prices drop or rise.

4. Freeze the Price

Not ready to book? Use the “Price Freeze” feature to lock in a deal for a small deposit. This protects you from price increases for a limited time.

5. Book When You’re Ready

Once you’re happy with the price, complete your booking directly through the app. It offers secure payment and often flexible cancellation options.

Understanding how Hopper works gives you a clear idea of the features and user experience that make it stand out.

If you're planning to create a travel app like Hopper, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started the right way.

Step-by-Step Guide to Create a Travel App Like Hopper

If you're wondering how to create an app like Hopper, you're not alone. 

With global travel bookings increasingly going mobile, there’s never been a better time to build a travel app. Infact, Statista reports that revenue in the online travel booking segment is expected to hit over $800 billion by 2028, with mobile apps playing a key role in this boom.

What makes Hopper-like app development so exciting is its blend of AI-powered features, real-time price predictions, and a smooth booking experience that travelers genuinely trust. 

From budget-conscious millennials to business travelers, users love tools that help them save money and make smarter decisions.

Your goal shouldn’t be to replicate it blindly, but to create a smart, user-centric solution that delivers value with every tap.

Let’s break down the full process of Hopper clone app development, step by step.

Step 1: Define Your App’s Purpose and Features

Before you create an app like Hopper, make it clear what your app will do.

Are you targeting only flights, or will your app also cover hotels, rental cars, and vacation packages? 

Decide on core features like AI-powered price prediction, price freeze, trip tracking, smart alerts, in-app bookings, and travel insurance. 

To create a travel app like Hopper, the user experience must revolve around convenience and savings. Mapping out your app's functionalities in this early stage ensures you build a solid foundation and stay focused during development.

Step 2: Do Market and Competitor Research

If you're serious about Hopper clone app development, study the market first. 

Look at apps like Agoda, Hopper, Skyscanner, and Kayak. Study leading competitors like Hopper, Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak. Look at their features, user interface, pricing models, and customer reviews.

Find out what they do well and where they lack. Read user reviews to know what real travelers want. This step helps you make a better app, not just copy one. 

If you want to develop an app similar to Hopper, understand current travel trends, consumer pain points, and the growing demand for price prediction technology. Research helps you innovate rather than simply copy.

Step 3: Choose the Right Tech Stack

To develop a travel app, you need an app tech stack that supports AI, big data, and real-time APIs. 

Backend development can be done using Node.js, Python, or Ruby on Rails, while mobile app development can use Swift (for iOS) and Kotlin (for Android). For smart features like price prediction, incorporate machine learning libraries and data analytics tools. 

To build a flight booking app like Hopper, choose technologies that offer scalability, security, and speed.

Step 4: Design a Simple and Friendly UI/UX

One thing that makes Hopper great is how easy it is to use. If you want to build a travel app like Hopper, focus on creating a smooth and clean design. 

Travelers love apps that are fast, beautiful, and simple to navigate. Don’t overload your screens. Stick to a minimal design with smart use of colors and icons. This step is crucial if you want to make an app like Hopper that users enjoy using daily.

Remember, a sleek UI isn’t just about looks, it directly impacts user retention. A clean design helps reduce friction, builds trust, and makes it more likely that users will return. 

Step 5: Choose the Right Platform

Before you start on-demand app development, decide which platform your app will launch on. If you want to build a travel app like Hopper for a wider reach, consider both iOS and Android. For a faster and cost-effective launch, cross-platform development using Flutter or React Native is a smart choice.

If you’re targeting high-end users or a premium travel experience, iOS may be your priority. On the other hand, Android dominates in global travel markets. This decision impacts your tech stack, budget, and launch strategy, so think it through carefully.

Step 6: Start the Real Coding

Now that your platform is chosen, features are defined, and APIs are selected, it's time to start the real coding. 

This is where your development team begins building both the frontend (user interface) and backend (server-side) of your app.

For the frontend, use frameworks like Flutter, React Native, or Swift (iOS) and Kotlin (Android) to ensure a smooth and responsive UI, just like Hopper. Prioritize clean design, quick load times, and easy navigation.

On the backend, developers will set up databases, API integrations, user authentication, and logic for AI-driven features. This stage brings your Hopper clone app development to life and transforms your plans into a fully functional product.

Step 7: Partner with Travel APIs

To develop an app like Hopper, you need data from airlines, hotels, and travel agencies. That’s where APIs come in. 

Use flight APIs like Skyscanner, Amadeus, or Kiwi, and hotel APIs like Booking.com or Expedia. These tools let your app show live prices, availability, and options. 

If you're wondering how to build an app like Hopper that users can trust, integrating with top travel APIs is the answer.

Step 8: Do Thorough Testing 

Before launching, test your app in every possible way. Check for bugs, crashes, or confusing user flows. Get real users to try it and give feedback. 

Fix what doesn’t work. App testing helps you improve the user experience and build a travel app like Hopper that actually works in the real world. No matter how great your features are, if the app doesn’t work smoothly, users won’t stay.

Step 9: Launch an MVP First

Don't rush into building everything at once.

Instead of launching a fully loaded app, go with a Minimum Viable Product (MVP). Include only the essential features: search, booking, price alerts, and payment. You can add advanced features later once you’re sure about user demand

This approach helps you validate your idea without high upfront costs. With user feedback from the MVP, you can improve your app iteratively. MVPs are an important step in Hopper-like app development as they reduce risk and allow faster market entry.

Once your MVP is tested and ready, submit your app to the Play Store or App Store to start reaching real users and collecting valuable insights for the next development phase.

Step 10: Market Your App to the Right Audience

Now that you've done the hard work for your Hopper-like app, it's time to promote it. Use social media, travel blogs, and app stores to reach your target users. 

Highlight features like “book smarter,” “save money,” or “get price alerts.” If you’ve created a hotel booking app like Hopper or a flight app, make sure your marketing clearly explains the benefits. Great marketing turns good apps into successful ones.

Also, don’t forget that launching the app is just the beginning, regular app maintenance is key to keeping it secure, bug-free, and compatible with the latest devices. Ongoing updates based on user feedback help improve performance and boost retention.

Once you've mapped out the steps to build a travel app like Hopper, the next big question is, how much will it cost?

Let’s break down travel app development costs so you can plan your budget smartly.

How Much Does It Cost to Develop an App Like Hopper?

The cost to create an app like Hopper depends on various factors such as features, design complexity, tech stack, and the development team's location. 

On average, if you are preparing to develop a travel app like Hopper, the cost can range from $30,000 to $100,000+, depending on how advanced and scalable you want your app to be.

A basic version with essential features like flight search, hotel booking, and in-app payments may cost around $30,000–$70,000. However, if you want to build a travel app like Hopper with AI-based price predictions, real-time alerts, price freeze, loyalty programs, and multilingual support, you’re looking at a mobile app development cost closer to $100,000 or more.

For startups or businesses looking to make an app like Hopper without breaking the bank, an MVP is a smart first step. It lets you test the idea and gather real user feedback before investing in full-scale development.

Keep in mind that your on-demand app development doesn’t stop at launch. You’ll need to budget for post-launch maintenance, updates, third-party integrations (like Amadeus or Skyscanner APIs), and marketing as well.

Whether you aim to create a hotel booking app like Hopper or go big, partnering with the best mobile app development company is key to keeping costs under control while ensuring quality and performance.

Now that you have a clear idea of the cost to create an app like Hopper, it’s time to look at the competition.

Let’s check out some of the best travel apps like Hopper, already making waves in the market.

Best Travel Apps Like Hopper 

If you’re planning to create an app like Hopper, it helps to know who your biggest competitors are. 

There are several top travel apps in the market today offering features like flight booking, hotel search, price tracking, itinerary management, and more. These apps have built strong user bases by offering seamless travel experiences and smart tools that save time and money.

Below is a quick look at some of the best travel apps like Hopper, their popularity based on downloads, and where they are available. Studying these apps can give you insight into what works well and what you can do better.

Looking at these top travel apps like Hopper, gives you insight into what works in the market. To compete or stand out, you’ll need more than just bookings, you need features that truly wow users.

Let’s dive into the key features to integrate in apps like Hopper to make your travel app smart, useful, and user-loved

Features to Integrate in Apps Like Hopper

If you want to create an app like Hopper, simply offering flight or hotel booking won’t cut it. What makes Hopper stand out is its smart use of AI, user-friendly design, and features that deliver real value to travelers. 

So, if you are interested in building a travel app like Hopper, here are the key features your app must include:

1] AI-Based Price Prediction

One of Hopper’s most loved features is its ability to forecast future prices for flights and hotels. 

If you're aiming to develop an app like Hopper, integrating machine learning algorithms that analyze pricing trends is essential. This feature helps users save money and builds trust in your platform.

2] Price Freeze Option

Another standout feature in Hopper is “Price Freeze,” which allows users to lock in a price for a short time with a small deposit. 

This creates a sense of urgency and flexibility. For your app, this is a must-have if you want to stand out from generic booking apps.

3] Smart Notifications and Alerts

When users are watching a trip, Hopper sends real-time alerts about price changes. If you want to make an app like Hopper, your app should include this feature to keep users engaged and coming back.

4] In-App Booking System

A smooth and secure in-app booking system is vital when you develop a car rental app like Hopper. Whether it’s for flights, hotels, or rental cars, users should be able to complete the booking process without leaving the app.

5] Watchlist for Trips

Let users “watch” trips they’re interested in. The app should track prices in the background and notify them of changes. This is crucial if you're aiming to build a hotel booking app like Hopper.

6] Clean and Minimal UI/UX

When you create a travel app like Hopper, don’t underestimate the power of good design. A clutter-free interface with simple navigation, smart icons, and soft colors makes your app more enjoyable and trustworthy.

7] Loyalty and Rewards Program

Offer discounts, points, or cashback to frequent users. This boosts retention and creates more value. If you're going to develop a mobile app, a loyalty feature gives your app long-term stickiness.

8] Multi-Language & Currency Support

Since travel is global, your app should cater to international users with support for multiple languages and currencies. This widens your reach and helps you create a Hopper-like app that appeals to more markets.

By integrating these features, you not only build an app like Hopper but also give your users an experience that’s smart, efficient, and enjoyable, exactly what today’s travelers are looking for.

Now that we’ve discussed the must-have functionalities, let’s take a look at how popular apps like Hopper actually monetize their services.

Next, we’ll explore how popular apps like Hopper make money, so you can build a sustainable business model for your own app.

How Popular Apps Like Hopper Make Money?

If you want to create an app like Hopper, understanding its revenue model is just as important as the features. Hopper is a smart travel app, but what makes it a successful business is how it monetizes travel planning effectively.

Let’s break down the main monetization strategies used in these popular apps:

► Commissions on Bookings

The core way Hopper makes money is by earning a commission on every flight, hotel, car rental, or vacation package booked through the app.

When users book travel through Hopper, the platform gets a percentage from partner airlines, hotels, or booking agencies.

► Price Freeze Fees

One of Hopper’s unique features is the “Price Freeze,” where users can lock in a flight or hotel price for a small deposit. 

Even if prices go up later, Hopper covers the difference. Users pay a small fee for this security, and it’s a clever way to generate extra revenue while adding value.

► Trip Protection and Insurance Add-ons

Hopper offers optional travel insurance and flexible cancellation policies. 

These services are either upsold through partnerships or offered as premium services. It’s another way to monetize the travel app without interrupting the user experience.

► Advertising and Promotions

Some travel apps, including Hopper, allow hotel chains or airlines to run targeted promotions inside the app. 

These in-app ads are subtle but effective and are another income stream if you are looking to develop a travel app like Hopper with monetization in mind.

► Loyalty Programs and Cashback

Hopper also earns from financial products like its own Hopper Wallet or loyalty-based cashback offers. These keep users coming back while opening new revenue opportunities.

If you want to develop an app similar to Hopper, designing multiple income sources from the beginning is key. It helps ensure your app is profitable even if one stream slows down.

Understanding how popular apps like Hopper make money will help you craft a profitable strategy for your own app. Now, while developing an app like Hopper can be rewarding, it’s important to be aware of the potential challenges that may come your way.

Let’s dive into the challenges you may face while building a Hopper-like app, so you're prepared to tackle them head-on.

Challenges You May Face While Hopper-Like App Development 

Planning to create an app like Hopper? 

That’s a smart move in today’s travel-driven world. But while the end product looks sleek and simple, building it comes with its own set of hurdles. 

If you're aiming for smooth Hopper-like app development, here are the top five challenges you might face and how to tackle them effectively.

1. Integrating Real-Time Travel Data

To develop a travel app like Hopper, you need access to accurate flight, hotel, and rental data in real time. Delays or outdated prices can ruin user trust.

Solution: Partner with reliable APIs like Skyscanner, Amadeus, or Travelpayouts. These provide up-to-date listings and price feeds that are essential for building a travel app like Hopper.

2. Developing AI-Based Price Prediction

One standout feature of Hopper is its AI-driven price prediction, which scans billions of data points.

Solution: Hire dedicated developers and use machine learning models trained on historical pricing trends. If your budget is tight, start with basic filters and gradually integrate predictive tech as your app scales.

3. User-Friendly and Minimal UI Design

Users expect a seamless experience, especially when dealing with travel bookings. A clunky UI can drive them away.

Solution: Focus on wireframing, prototyping for intuitive navigation, minimal screens, and clear icons. To make an app like Hopper, you must prioritize user experience just as much as backend functionality.

4. Security and Payment Integration

When you build a flight booking app like Hopper, handling personal and financial information with proper app security measures is a must.

Solution: Integrate secure gateways (like Stripe or PayPal), use strong encryption, and ensure your app is GDPR and PCI-DSS compliant.

5. Scalability for High Traffic

Travel demand can spike seasonally. Your app must handle heavy traffic without crashing.

Solution: Use a scalable cloud infrastructure (like AWS or Google Cloud) from the start, so your app development process supports growth without technical hiccups.

Planning ahead for these challenges will help you develop an app similar to Hopper that’s not just functional, but loved by users.

Ready to Turn Your Travel App Idea into Reality?

If you're serious about building the next big thing in travel tech, you need more than just a great idea, you need the right team. At JPLoft, we specialize in creating custom, user-friendly travel solutions that are scalable, secure, and packed with features travelers love.

Whether you’re looking to develop an app like Hopper, our team can guide you every step of the way from wireframing and design to development, launch, and ongoing support.

As a top-rated travel app development company, we combine years of experience with the latest technologies like AI, real-time APIs, and cloud-based architecture to ensure your app performs flawlessly under real-world conditions.

The Bottom Line 

Creating a travel app like Hopper is no small task, but with the right planning, strategy, and tech support, it's absolutely achievable. 

If you aim to develop an app like Hopper or even start with a basic Hopper clone app, your focus should always remain on user convenience, real-time pricing, smart AI features, and a seamless booking experience.

From smart price predictions to flexible booking options, users today want more control and savings when planning trips, and apps like Hopper deliver just that. If you’re ready to tap into this growing market, start by defining your vision, researching your competition, and partnering with an experienced app development company.

With the right approach, you can not only create a hotel or flight booking app like Hopper but also make it stand out in a crowded travel tech market.