#USA #London #travel trends #Skyscanner #Generation Glow-Trotter

Skyscanner's Insight into 2026 Travel Trends

Skyscanner, a leading travel app, releases its much-anticipated Travel Trends 2026 report, highlighting seven key trends that will define the travel landscape in the upcoming year. As cost-of-living concerns linger, travelers are expected to plan journeys that resonate with their aspirations, reflecting a more personal and meaningful approach to travel.

Overview of the Seven Trends

Skyscanner's report reveals a landscape where travel is not just about destinations but a deeper engagement with experiences. According to Bryan Batista, CEO of Skyscanner, travelers are increasingly prioritizing their desires and interests, leading to customized journeys. Here’s a glimpse into the seven trends:

1. Generation Glow-Trotter

Beauty rituals are becoming a significant influence on travel planning. About 33% of international travelers expressed a desire to explore local beauty cultures, drawing inspiration from social platforms like TikTok and Instagram. In 2026, the pursuit of beauty won’t just be about products but will integrate into travel behaviors through local beauty shopping experiences and personal care during flights.

2. Supermarket Safari

The culinary tourism scene is shifting towards supermarket safaris instead of fine dining reservations. A notable 35% of travelers globally are opting to discover local grocery stores during vacations. This trend signifies an immersive experience that offers genuine insights into local lifestyles at reasonable prices. From Tokyo's vending machines to Iceland's geothermal bread, food tourism is taking on a new flavor.

3. Ascension Escape

Travelers are increasingly gravitating towards mountain getaways, seeking both adventure and tranquility. A staggering 76% of global travelers are planning summer or fall escapes to the mountains in 2026. Countries like Italy, Nepal, and Canada are witnessing a surge in inquiries for mountain-view accommodations, indicating an evolving travel preference for serene escapes.

4. Book-Tripping

Literature is inspiring more trips, with over 57% of travelers considering literary journeys that intertwine reading and exploring. This trend encompasses everything from visiting the haunts of fictional characters to spending quiet days in enchanting bookstores. The shift in hotel search filters, with a 70% increase for those featuring libraries, illustrates the growing synergy between literature and travel.

5. Travel Match

Connections are becoming a focal point for many travelers, as 55% are exploring opportunities for friendships or romances abroad. As dating norms evolve, the quest for genuine connections facilitates memories that deepen travel experiences, backed by a 83% increase in solo travel bookings.

6. Family Travel

Multigenerational travel is on the rise, with 31% of travelers planning trips that include grandparents, parents, and children. This trend not only helps reduce costs but also fosters quality family bonding moments filled with shared memories as families become more inventive in how and where they travel.

7. Hotel-Destination

Hotels have become central to the travel experience, with 29% of travelers selecting their destinations based on the accommodations themselves. Unique hotel designs and atmospheres are now pivotal in decision-making, pushing travelers to prioritize distinct, memorable stays that elevate their travel stories beyond mere location.

The Future of Travel

The trends outlined by Skyscanner indicate a thoughtful future of travel in 2026, where 84% of travelers anticipate traveling abroad as often or more than in 2025. They are likely to extend their budgets for enriched experiences, highlighting a shift towards personalized and meaningful travel.

The rise of artificial intelligence in travel planning promises a more interconnected system. As travelers seek both convenience and inspiration, social media will play an integral role, shaping preferences and offering insights that resonate on a personal level.

For a deeper dive into the 2026 Travel Trends, you can refer to the complete report here.

About Skyscanner

Skyscanner, a global leader in travel, connects millions of travelers each month, simplifying the search for flights, hotels, and car rentals. Founded in 2003 and based across Europe, Asia-Pacific, and North America, Skyscanner continually innovates travel solutions powered by extensive data analytics, ensuring that travelers are presented with the best possible options in one place.