#Japan #Tokyo #travel trends #Skyscanner #Budget Travel

Skyscanner’s Travel Trend Report 2026

Skyscanner Japan has rolled out its latest report, the "Travel Trend Report 2026," where it highlights the top ten budget-friendly travel destinations for the upcoming year. This report is grounded on data gathered from over 1,200 websites encompassing airlines, travel agencies, and hotels, ensuring travelers can discover the best travel plans with ease and confidence. Available in 37 languages across 180 countries, Skyscanner aims to tackle changing travel styles by capturing insights and trends that resonate with modern travelers.

Methodology Behind the Selections

For this selection, Skyscanner analyzed the percentage decrease in round-trip economy class airfare for tickets reserved between January 1 and June 30, 2025, comparing these rates to the previous year. Following this analysis, destinations were deemed "travel-friendly" based on various factors, including cultural and leisure activities.

Top Budget-Friendly Destinations for 2026

1. Xiamen, China - Price Decrease: 27%
Known for its pleasant seaside winds, Xiamen blends colonial architecture with vibrant fishing streets. The world-renowned Gulangyu Island, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts visitors with its stunning structures and exotic ambiance, particularly during the CIFIT in September where lantern cruises, tea markets, and music events abound.

2. Vientiane, Laos - Price Decrease: 24%
The capital city of Laos captivates visitors with its picturesque Mekong sunsets and a unique fusion of French colonial-era buildings and Buddhist temples. The golden stupa of That Luang and charming colonial-style cafes create a captivating atmosphere. Visitors during the That Luang Festival in November can enjoy candlelight processions and vibrant boat races.

3. Caticlan, Philippines - Price Decrease: 22%
The gateway to the famous Boracay Island, Caticlan offers stunning white sand beaches that are perfect for activities like snorkeling and sunset sailing. The Ati-Atihan Festival celebrates a peaceful land exchange between commanders from Borneo and the indigenous Ati people with thrilling street dances and festive body paint showcases.

To uncover more affordable travel spots, you can check the full report at Skyscanner Travel Trends.

Expert Insights

New Routes and Increased Flights: A Path to Budget Travel

According to Skyscanner’s Travel Expert, Kentaro Okada, most of the budget-friendly destinations for 2026 are linked to new flight routes and increased flight frequencies. Locations that are receiving extra flights are viewed as up-and-coming destinations by airlines, thereby creating a trend that travelers can rely on. For instance, Xiamen is set to increase its daily flights from Narita starting July 2, 2025.

Planning Your 2026 Travels

To stay ahead in this rapidly changing travel landscape, Skyscanner recommends utilizing its innovative features. The Price Alert function allows you to track fare changes for your chosen destinations, while the exciting new feature, DROPS, highlights significantly reduced airfares within the last week, ensuring users never miss a great deal.

Understanding Skyscanner

Skyscanner is committed to simplifying travel planning, making it easier than ever for users to find the best deals on flights, hotels, and rentals. Established in 2003, the app connects millions of travelers with over 1,200 reputable partners across the globe, allowing them to browse and book their ideal travel experiences efficiently. As Skyscanner continues to innovate, features like the Calendar/Chart View help users identify the lowest prices over a month, maximizing their travel opportunities without spending excessive time searching for deals.

In summary, Skyscanner's Travel Trend Report for 2026 serves as an invaluable resource for travelers seeking budget-friendly experiences while embracing the evolving nature of travel. With cultural enrichment and well-priced options across diverse locales, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year to explore the world economically.