The Future of Leisure Travel: Insights from the Internova Index 2026

Surge in Leisure Travel Demand into 2026

Leisure travel is expected to remain robust well into 2026, as detailed in the latest report from Internova Travel Group. According to the 2025 edition of the Internova Index North American Traveler Insights, leisure travel across all sectors exhibited strength in 2025, presenting an optimistic outlook for the coming year. This newly released survey highlights Americans' intentions to travel more frequently, invest more in their journeys, and utilize travel advisors' expertise.

In 2025, Americans took an average of 6.4 trips, showcasing their eagerness to explore. As the future unfolds, the report anticipates a further 27% of respondents expressing intentions to increase their leisure travel in 2026. Additionally, about 62% of those surveyed plan to depend heavily on travel advisors for their planning and booking needs.

Why the Growing Interest in Travel Advisors?
The role of travel advisors is becoming increasingly important, as individuals seek the advantages they provide, like personalized service and expert knowledge about destinations. According to Henry Gilroy, Executive Vice President of Strategy at Internova, the findings indicate a notable shift in consumer behavior. "Travelers are looking for more than just destinations; they seek experiences, relaxation, and the human connection that travel facilitates," he stated.

Moreover, while traditional cruises remain popular, interest is growing in luxury yachts and expedition cruises. Notably, one-third of surveyed individuals indicated a preference for these upscale options. This evolution aligns with the rising trend of shorter voyages, particularly among younger travelers.

Wellness and Luxury Trends
The luxury travel sector is undergoing significant changes as consumers increasingly search for wellness-focused trips. Many travelers are prioritizing experiences centered around healthy living, spa retreats, and rejuvenation. Furthermore, group tours are still favored, especially among those aged 55 and older; however, younger audiences demonstrate a growing curiosity for private tours.

The landscape for air travel and accommodations has also shifted, with prices leaning towards the luxury segment while decreasing in the more economical ranges. This has led to heightened costs for cruises, particularly expedition styles, further indicating a thriving high-end market.

Despite challenges such as tariffs and global political scenarios, respondents remain enthusiastic about travel. For long-haul and extended vacations, 70% of travelers recently utilized a travel advisor to book their international trips, emphasizing the value of expert guidance.

As part of this trend, luxury travelers particularly appreciate advisors for their ability to navigate complex travel logistics, manage visas, and provide significant time-saving benefits. The demand for travel advisors stems from a desire for thorough destination insights and ongoing support during trips.

The findings of the 2025 Internova Index North American Traveler Insights were gathered through extensive analysis and surveys across diverse demographics, including various age categories and economic standings. This comprehensive approach aims to equip industry stakeholders with actionable insights to adapt to emerging trends and challenges in the travel sector.

In conclusion, the future of leisure travel is looking brighter as demand surges. With consumers planning to engage more with travel advisors and a growing focus on luxurious and wellness-oriented experiences, the travel industry is set for an exciting evolution in the years to come.

For a complete overview of the report, and further insight into how Internova Analytics and Consulting can assist in navigating these trends, interested parties may visit www.internova.com/research.

About Internova Travel Group
Internova Travel Group stands as one of the world's largest travel service companies, recognized for its finance and trustworthiness. With a diverse portfolio encompassing leisure, corporate, and entertainment travel services, it represents over 100,000 travel advisors worldwide. This expansive network operates in over 80 countries, ensuring their ability to cater to varied traveler preferences effectively.