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Seven Trends That Will Shape Travel in 2026

As the world continues to navigate through the evolving landscape of travel, Skyscanner has released its insightful "Travel Trends 2026" report outlining the key trends that are set to redefine how we approach our journeys in the coming year. These trends highlight the shift towards personalized and meaningful travel experiences, influenced by individual passions and priorities.

1. Glowmads: Beauty Meets Travel

A merging of beauty and travel is on the horizon as travelers increasingly seek authentic local beauty experiences. Over 33% of global travelers are eager to explore local beauty cultures during their trips, while 20% are influenced by social media platforms like TikTok. This trend indicates a growing desire to integrate personal beauty rituals into travel itineraries, ranging from skincare routines to visits at local beauty stores.

2. Shelf Discovery: The Rise of Culinary Tourism

Culinary tourism is evolving from dining at high-end restaurants to exploring local grocery stores. Data shows that about 35% of travelers are inclined to explore local grocery stores on their next vacation. This trend suggests that travelers now prefer to discover a destination’s culinary essence through its local snacks and everyday food items, providing a more immersive and authentic experience.

3. Altitude Shift: Embracing Year-Round Mountain Retreats

More than 76% of travelers are considering mountain getaways, not just for winter sports but also for summertime escapes amidst serene nature. From the Swiss Alps to the Rocky Mountains, mountains are becoming a calming refuge year-round. The increase in hotel bookings featuring "rooms with mountain views" has surged by 103% globally, indicating a shift in traveler interests toward peaceful alpine landscapes.

4. Bookbound: Traveling Through Literature

Books are becoming a significant source of inspiration for travelers, with over 57% expressing interest in trips inspired by their favorite literary works. Whether embarking on journeys to visit iconic libraries or planning literary-themed vacations, travelers are finding solace and connection through the pages of books, which is evident from the 70% increase in searches for hotel bookings using the "library" filter on Skyscanner.

5. Catching Flights and Feelings: Traveling for Connections

The surge in solo travel and meeting new people while abroad cannot be overlooked. Approximately 55% of travelers have planned trips to meet friends or potential partners in different countries. This trend illustrates a changing landscape where social connections are becoming central to the travel experience, moving beyond online interactions to real-life connections.

6. Family Miles: Multi-Generational Adventures

The trend of multi-generational travel is growing, with 31% of people planning trips that include family members across different age groups. This reflects a conscious effort to spend quality time together and create lasting memories. Rising accommodation costs and the need for budget-friendly travel solutions encourage families to explore more cost-effective methods of traveling together.

7. Destination Check-in: Hotels as a Central Experience

Hotels are evolving into experiences of their own. With 29% of travelers willing to choose destinations based on unique accommodations, the perception of a hotel is changing from a mere resting place to an integral part of the travel experience. Unique design, ambiance, and atmosphere are becoming paramount in the selection process.

The Future Looks Bright

The future of travel is clearly gearing towards curated, conscious, and more insightful experiences. With 84% of travelers planning to travel just as much, if not more, in 2026 compared to the previous years, budgets are being recalibrated to accommodate richer experiences. The integration of advanced technology, including AI, is expected to streamline travel planning and enhance overall experiences.

For detailed insights and to stay updated with the travel trends, visit Skyscanner.

About Skyscanner

Founded in 2003, Skyscanner has become a leading global travel app connecting millions of travelers worldwide. The platform facilitates the search and booking of flights, hotels, and car rentals, ensuring users find the best options to suit their travel needs. With continuous innovations powered by data insights, Skyscanner is dedicated to simplifying the travel planning process for all.