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The Points Guy Reveals 2026 Travel Trends Report

On December 4, 2025, The Points Guy (TPG), a renowned media platform dedicated to enhancing travel experiences while keeping expenses low, unveiled its much-anticipated 2026 Travel Trends Report. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the global conditions expected to influence American travel in the forthcoming year.

Shifting Traveler Habits

In light of recent changes in governmental policies and economic uncertainties affecting international tourism in the U.S., the report indicates a notable shift in travel habits among Americans. Brian Kelly, the founder of TPG, noted, “Travelers' habits are shifting. Instead of flocking to crowded, expensive cities, Americans are embracing shoulder-season trips and seeking more unique, affordable, and nature-centric destinations.” This trend underscores a growing desire for meaningful travel experiences while alleviating pressure on frequently visited hot spots.

Economic Uncertainty's Impact

The report points out that broader economic challenges, including stricter immigration policies and enhanced border screening protocols, have resulted in fewer international visitors to the United States. This trend has adversely affected the value of the U.S. dollar, which has depreciated approximately 10% in the first half of 2025, marking the most significant dip since 1973. While travelers heading to certain regions like New Zealand and parts of the Caribbean can expect a favorable exchange rate, those visiting countries like the UK and Eurozone nations should be prepared for potential exchanges that could impact their spending.

Exploring Alternative Destinations

Despite robust demand for travel, Americans are becoming increasingly cost-conscious. Around 16% of travelers intend to focus their 2026 journeys on less-crowded locales to save money. Major U.S. airlines, such as United and JetBlue, are embracing this trend by expanding their routes to include lesser-known destinations, like Norfolk, Virginia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Additionally, data from Points Path shows a significant increase in searches for smaller airports, demonstrating a shift towards more accessible travel options.

Hotels are also joining this movement, with major loyalty programs establishing partnerships with boutique brands like Mr & Mrs Smith and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. These collaborations provide travelers with new opportunities to use their loyalty points, encouraging airlines and hotels alike to enhance their offerings to remain competitive.

Premium vs. Budget Experiences

In 2026, a widening gap is expected between premium and budget travel experiences. As travel brands intensify their focus on high-end offerings, the market will reflect diverging consumer preferences regarding travel experiences. Luxury service providers are enhancing exclusivity through luxurious travel perks and lifestyle partnerships. Notably, Chase Sapphire Reserve and American Express Platinum Cards raised their annual fees this year, citing enriched rewards and premium experiences as justifications for these increases.

Airlines are similarly upgrading their services, focusing on front-cabin innovations and enhanced lounge access. As elite upgrades become scarcer, airlines are creating new tiers of paid comfort, leading to a more exclusive travel experience that comes at a higher price. Savvy travelers will need to optimize their credit card rewards strategies to unlock luxurious experiences affordably.

AI Revolutionizing Travel Planning

The advent of AI technology has revolutionized how travelers approach flight pricing and trip planning. Major airlines and hotels now harness AI tools, which can reduce time spent on travel planning by 50-80%. With a significant portion of millennials and Gen Z adopting these technologies, the travel process becomes more efficient. Nonetheless, human interaction remains essential, especially when it comes to navigating unexpected changes or requesting upgrades.

Loyalty Ecosystems Evolving

In an increasingly complex landscape, choosing the right credit card is no longer solely about basic rewards; issuers are expanding proprietary rewards platforms to provide special perks tied to brand partners. As benefits become more intricate, travelers must assess their loyalty cards to ensure they maximize potential savings and advantages against annual fees.

Preparing for the 2026 Landscape

For the year ahead, staying informed about these evolving travel trends and policies will be vital for meaningful travel experiences. Loyal followers of travel trends will utilize tools like Seats.aero and Rooms.aero to optimize their benefits and unlock exciting new adventures. Mastering the points and miles game will open doors to exclusive experiences and destinations that might have seemed unattainable in a tightly woven travel landscape.

To delve deeper into TPG's comprehensive 2026 Travel Trends Report, visit their official website at www.thepointsguy.com.

About The Points Guy

Founded in 2010 by Brian Kelly, The Points Guy (TPG) has established itself as a leading travel media platform, dedicated to enabling travelers to maximize their experiences while minimizing costs. With an expansive reach of 11 million unique monthly visitors and 5 million followers across various social media platforms, TPG provides valuable insights including firsthand reviews, tips, and distinct travel guides aimed at enhancing the journey for all travelers.