#United States #Norwalk #travel trends #Priceline #2026

Priceline Unveils Its 2026 Travel Trends Report

Priceline has recently released its much-anticipated 2026 Where to Next? Travel Trends Report, highlighting seven key behaviors, trends, and destinations expected to define travel in the upcoming year. As travel enthusiasts plan their itineraries, 2026 will be characterized by an increased sense of exploration and spontaneity, led by travelers who prioritize unique experiences.

The Emergence of ‘More’ in Travel

The theme of more rings true for 2026—it signals more exploration, more spontaneous trips, and many travelers eager to embrace the moment. Building upon the intentional travel pursuits of 2025, the new trends showcase a remarkable evolution toward indulgence and adventure, often with an undercurrent of nostalgia.

According to Priceline’s findings, travelers are expected to embark on an average of 15 leisure days next year, with budgets rising by approximately $350. Many are already contemplating the question: “Where to next?” as they set their sights on both familiar and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Exciting Travel Trends for 2026

1. Little Treat Travel: The rise of treat culture has transformed how we view vacations. Travelers now indulge in spontaneous escapes, booking last-minute trips purely for the joy of treating themselves. This trend isn’t restricted to special occasions; in fact, a staggering 65% of travelers have spontaneously booked trips as a mood-lifting gesture rather than for a significant reason.

2. Midwest Quests: The Midwest is quickly becoming a hotspot for travel, with unique attractions and charming small towns encouraging more interest than ever. Approximately 63% of respondents expressed increased enthusiasm toward visiting the region, which boasts lakeside getaways, craft breweries, and rich history.

3. DéjàView: Millennials and Gen Z travelers are embracing nostalgia by revisiting destinations that hold personal meaning. With 73% advocating for trips that reconnect them with their past, family beaches and amusement parks are witnessing renewed interest—now featuring a modern twist.

4. Expedition Beach: Forget the all-day lounging; beach vacations are taking a thrilling turn. Research indicates that 74% of travelers seek exhilarating experiences at the seaside—think parasailing and cliff diving that offer far more than just relaxation.

5. Tailgate Tourism: College towns like never before are becoming destinations thanks to electrifying game days. Nearly two-thirds of travelers are eager to experience the vibrant atmosphere surrounding college sports, complete with food, music, and local culture.

6. Kidfluence: The input of children is now shaping family vacations, with 87% of parents saying their kids contribute significantly to travel planning. Gen Alpha brings excitement and creativity, leading families to locations filled with play-focused accommodations and attractions from popular culture.

7. Dead Zoning: In response to an overwhelming blending of work and leisure, a new breed of travelers is turning to intense digital detoxing. This shift focuses on unplugging from devices and truly embracing the vacation experience, with 59% affirming they are dedicated to limiting work-related distractions during travels.

A New Era of Travel

As Christina Bennett, a consumer travel trends expert at Priceline, emphasizes, the evolving narrative of travel is defined by emotions as much as experiences. The 2026 report encapsulates the spirit of adventure, comfort, and genuine exploration, reflecting a profound shift in how and why people choose to travel. Whether drawn by surprise trips, nostalgic destinations, or impulsive adventures, travelers are redefining vacationing and actively creating the moments that matter.

This latest report derives from a thorough survey of over 3,000 U.S. adults, combined with proprietary Priceline travel data, ensuring a comprehensive outlook on upcoming trends. With rising travel enthusiasm across demographics, 2026 promises to be an exciting year for explorations, unveiling not just new adventures, but also rekindling old favorites.

For more details on these compelling trends, read the full Where to Next? 2026 Travel Trends Report from Priceline.