The Biggest Travel Trends Shaping Summer 2026

Summer holiday planning is in full swing, and 2026 travel trends are already emerging. According to Google, the most popular international flight destination will be the Caribbean island of Saint Maarten, closely followed by two very different capital cities: Mexico City and Stockholm. Domestic tourists will fly to Kansas City, MO, Sarasota, FL, and Asheville, NC, as rising travel costs have caused a surge in interest in regional hubs and off-the-radar destinations.

Demand for Domestic Tourism and Regional Experiences

Discovering regional American culture and food is becoming a major draw for tourism, as more people seek authentic experiences and meaningful connections over package holidays.

Seventy percent of travelers worldwide declare that they will eat street food and visit food carts during their travels, and nearly four in five Millennials will seek local workshops and activities specific to their destination.

Nostalgic road trips are also in, with both car and RV travel on the rise. In 2026, celebrations of America’s 250th birthday and the Route 66 centennial provide strong inspiration for cultural heritage-focused itineraries. And the best thing about the 250th celebrations is that events, exhibitions and concerts can be found all around the country, allowing travelers to make the most of shorter itineraries. 

Return to Nature and Slow Travel

According to a Kampgrounds of America survey, a return to nature is a major trend, with 70 percent of respondents saying that “just being in nature” was their key holiday plan. Camping and caravaning offer flexibility and the ability to travel at one’s own pace, and an increasing number of travelers are making the radical choice to leave their phones behind. The growing popularity of analog, unplugged experiences is a response to the ever-increasing pace of everyday life and its constant connectedness. 

Choosing peace and quiet over busy destinations and adrenaline is undoubtedly a major 2026 travel trend, shifting our understanding of what’s desirable and luxurious. 

Economic Pressures and Sustainability

Soaring fuel prices and increasing awareness of climate issues have pushed many travelers toward more budget-friendly and ecology-conscious choices.

According to the US Travel Association, higher-spending tourists may reduce European travel and choose domestic alternatives instead, while the average American is more likely to stay closer to home to cut costs. Instead of multi-day holidays, Millennials and Gen Z in particular are opting for multiple shorter trips, allowing for more flexibility and less time off work.

With experiences and local activities at the top of travelers’ priorities, many are now focusing not only on reducing their carbon footprint, but also on actively engaging in regenerative activities. Supporting nature conservation and strengthening local economies is increasingly becoming part of sustainable travel agents’ offerings.

The Growing Role of AI in Tourism

Nearly one in three travelers use AI-powered tools to create their itineraries, and many turn to AI not only at the planning stage, but also for real-time on-the-go inspiration. 

While using generative AI to plan or assist holidays is not without risks, the technology is here to stay. It is also increasingly embraced by eco-conscious travelers who use it to find responsible local activities, or to create low-carbon itineraries.

On the industry side, AI is also becoming a powerful sustainability ally, allowing major brands and operators to combat overtourism by distributing visitors across different times and locations, or even to reduce food waste.