Seven Key Travel Trends for 2026 Revealed by Skyscanner

Travel Trends 2026: Insights from Skyscanner

As we step into a new era of travel, Skyscanner has released its comprehensive report detailing the pivotal travel trends for 2026. The insights gathered from millions of data points and consumer opinions illustrate how travelers are seeking more personalized and meaningful experiences amid rising living costs and shifting priorities.

The Emergence of Personalized Travel

Skyscanner's CEO, Bryan Batista, emphasizes the growing trend of personalization in travel. People are more inclined to curate trips aligned with their passions and interests. This means whether it's planning a trip around a must-visit hotel or integrating personal hobbies into travel itineraries, the focus is increasingly on making travel a reflection of oneself.

Trend Breakdown: Seven Key Trends for 2026

1. Glowmads: The beauty industry plays a crucial role in destination choices. 33% of travelers express a desire to immerse themselves in local beauty cultures, influenced heavily by social media.

Travelers are expected to include skincare routines as part of their journey, visiting local beauty shops to experience the essence of their destination through its cosmetic offerings. Social platforms like TikTok are shaping these choices, as people seek to discover beauty gems while traveling.

2. Shelf Discovery: Gone are the days of prioritizing high-end dining; travelers are swapping exclusive restaurant reservations for supermarket adventures. 35% of respondents plan to shop in local grocery stores for a taste of authentic local cuisine.

This trend highlights a shift in culinary tourism, merging cultural immersion with budget-friendly dining experiences.

3. Altitude Shift: Outdoor escapes to mountainous regions are on the rise, with 76% of global travelers considering trips to alpine destinations throughout the year.

Travelers are looking for serene retreats, with hotel bookings in these locations rising significantly. This reflects a broader desire for tranquility away from bustling cityscapes.

4. Book-bound: The connection between literature and travel is stronger than ever, with 57% of travelers eager to book trips inspired by their favorite books. This could involve planning a peaceful getaway to read or exploring famous literary landmarks.

Literature-themed travel is gaining momentum, with increased interest in places associated with beloved stories and authors, which offers a unique angle to explore the world.

5. Catching Connections: A notable 55% of travelers have sought to meet new people on their journeys, highlighting a shift in dating and friendship patterns influenced by travel.

This includes everything from casual meet-ups to dating in foreign countries, signaling an evolution in social interaction, where the thrill of exploration blends with human connections.

6. Family Miles: Multi-generational travel is becoming increasingly popular, as 31% of travelers plan trips with family members across different generations. These trips not only allow for sharing costs but also create lasting memories among family units amidst shared experiences.

7. Destination Check-in: Hotels are no longer just a place to stay; they have become key destinations themselves, with 29% of travelers choosing locations based on their accommodations. Unique hotels are in high demand, shaping the travel itinerary and overall experience.

The Future of Travel Looks Bright

According to Skyscanner's report, 84% of travelers plan to travel just as much, if not more, in 2026, despite economic uncertainties. Enhanced budgeting for richer experiences and the rise of AI-driven assistance signify a transformation in how travel is planned and experienced.

Skyscanner continues leading the charge by integrating sophisticated technology to refine travel planning, ensuring that users find the best possible options. The trends illustrate a clear shift towards curated experiences that resonate with a traveler's individuality.

For more detailed insights and trends, visit Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2026.

About Skyscanner

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner is a leading global travel app that connects millions of travelers with trustworthy partners around the world. With a commitment to transparency and easy booking, Skyscanner searches billions of prices daily, ensuring that users find the best options for flights, hotels, and car rentals.