Travel Trends to Watch in 2026

As the travel world moves past the rebound phase of the pandemic, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where intention, sustainability, and experience take center stage. Travelers are no longer content with just ticking off bucket-list destinations—they want to go deeper, slower, and smarter. Below are the trends already emerging, backed by data, forecasts, and what travel insiders are seeing on the ground.

Steady Growth, But More Thoughtful Travel

Global forecasts expect the travel industry to continue growing through 2026 at a moderate, more balanced rate. After the fast rebound post-COVID, what we’re now seeing is stability. Industry experts project annual growth in the range of 6–9% through 2026, reflecting a shift away from impulsive “revenge travel” toward more sustainable, planned trips.

The United States is forecast to see international arrivals once again exceed pre-pandemic levels by 2026. That means destinations that are open, affordable, and offer good infrastructure will benefit. At the same time, travelers are being more price-sensitive—choosing more value, flexibility, and experiences over luxury alone.

Business Travel Cost Stabilization

After years of big swings in cost (higher airfares, hotel rates, supply constraints), 2026 looks set for a gentler rise in business travel expenses. Forecasts suggest airfare increases will be modest, hotel rates will creep up slightly, and car-rental costs will continue rising but at a more predictable pace. For companies and travel planners, this means more room to negotiate, forecast, and manage budgets with less risk of surprise spikes.

One notable shift: more business travel is expected to use secondary cities rather than the major hubs. Costs are lower, crowding is less, and experiences can feel more unique. Hybrid and smaller-group events are going to be more common. Sustainability and wellness requirements are also pushing companies to partner with eco-certified suppliers and design trips with worker wellbeing and environmental impact in mind.

Travel with Purpose: Slow, Local, and Values-Driven

2026 is set to further cement the trend of value-based travel. More people are looking for trips that align with their values—whether environmental, cultural, ethical, or health oriented. “Purpose-driven travel” is no longer niche: plant-based food tourism, community-led stays, and authentic local experiences are becoming standard expectations. Travelers want to support local economies, respect culture rather than merely spectating, and leave less impact.

“Slow travel” is also rising: fewer destinations per trip, longer stays, and more immersive experiences. Rather than racing from city to city, many travelers are planning to settle in for a week or more in one place, letting culture, nature, and connections unfold more naturally. Off-season travel is gaining appeal for the same reasons—not just lower prices, but fewer crowds and more meaningful interactions with local life.

Emerging Adventure Styles and Surprises

Several newer styles of travel are breaking through into mainstream awareness for 2026. Mystery cruises are gaining traction, offering itineraries where travelers don’t know all the destinations ahead of time—adding an element of surprise and adventure. Safari and remote-nature trips are also rising, especially those tied to conservation or ecological experiences. Travelers are craving nature, wildlife, and places that feel unspoiled.

Another emerging trend is themed travel. Wellness retreats, spiritual journeys, and even cosmic events like stargazing vacations are becoming more popular. The night sky, darkness, and “off the beaten path” nature experiences—forests, national parks, and places with low light pollution—are drawing travelers who want to reconnect with the natural world.

What It Means for Travelers and the Industry

For travelers, flexibility will be key. Refundable bookings, adaptable itineraries, and off-season travel will all provide peace of mind. Choosing depth over breadth—immersive trips rather than whirlwind tours—will likely create the most satisfying experiences. Travelers are also showing that authentic, values-aligned experiences matter more than luxury for luxury’s sake.

For the travel industry, sustainability and purpose-driven offerings are no longer optional—they’re expected. Companies that highlight local partnerships, green credentials, and culture-positive experiences will stand out. Secondary cities, alternative lodging, and off-season rates will also become important differentiators, while technology and personalization will remain central to creating seamless, traveler-friendly services.

2026 promises to be a year where travel isn’t just about where you go—it’s about how and why you go. The focus is shifting from ticking off destinations to creating memories, forging connections, and leaving a positive impact on the places visited. Whether it’s a business trip designed around sustainability or a personal escape rooted in authenticity, endurance over flash, quality over quantity, and values over vanity will define the journeys people remember.