From hotel hopping to slow travel: The 6 travel trends set to dominate holidays in 2026
Travelling is at the heart of how people connect with the world, and as habits evolve, so do the destinations and holidays they seek. Today, Expedia Group has released its Unpack ‘26: The Trends in Travel. The research, in which 24,000 respondents from 18 countries responded, has uncovered shifts in traveller behaviour and what trends will dominate 2026. From Hotel Hopping to Jet-Setting, Expedia has also shared the destinations which will see an increase in travellers next year, which include Sardinia in Italy, Savoie in France, and Hobart in Australia.
Ariane Gorin, CEO of Expedia Group, said: “Some of my most unforgettable travel moments come from immersing myself in local cultures, supporting local economies, and exploring less-travelled destinations. With one billion average monthly travel searches, Expedia Group isn’t just a travel marketplace - we’re a catalyst for positive change. We have a responsibility to shape the future of travel: one that’s smarter, more sustainable, and deeply respectful of the places we go.”
Expedia’s Fan Voyage trend sees a surge in uniquely regional sporting experiences, with 47% of Brits saying they’d likely attend one while on a trip.
From sumo wrestling in Japan, Muay Thai in Thailand, Curling in Canada, and Baseball in South Korea, travellers, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are seeking front-row seats to learn about traditions.
The Fan Voyage trend isn't just about the game either; it's about people wanting to connect with the community and culture, making them feel like a local.
Check out how to get seats to Fan Voyage events here.
(Image: Expedia Group)
In 2026, travellers are going to be checking into hotels that combine historical architecture with modern amenities. Hotel.com’s 2026 Hotels of the Year list highlights a surge in demand for “upcycled retreats”.
This includes those such as former schoolhouses, train stations, and banks that offer guests a comfortable stay while also offering a unique experience.
Certain stays attracting guests include Bodmin Jail Hotel, a former prison in Cornwall and Bank Hotel, a former bank in Stockholm, Sweden.
See more Salvaged Stays inspiration here.
(Image: Expedia Group)
More than half of British millennial travellers will make every minute of their trip count next year by booking multiple hotels within one trip. This trend, dubbed the Hotel Hop, allows travellers to explore a city within a country, and then hop to a beachside destination.
It allows holidaymakers to explore different neighbourhoods and keep their trip exciting.
Some top hotels include hopping from Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa to Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya in Tokyo, Japan and hopping from Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort to Metadee Concept Hotel in Phuket, Thailand.
Read about the top Hotel Hop combinations here.
(Image: Expedia Group)
Expedia said trips in 2026 will also see travellers seeking getaways focused on reading, relaxation and spending lots of time with family and friends. An interest in literary-themed travels is surging, with incredible rentals available across the world.
Vrbo's reading-related terms in guest reviews have nearly tripled, showing just how much people are interested in combining travel with reading.
From The Book House No. 43 in Columbus, Ohio, US, to The Literary House in Sorrento, Italy, there’s something for everyone.
See more inspiration on the best Readaways here.
(Image: Expedia Group)
This trend sees travellers expressing interest in staying on or near a farm. Mentions of farm-related experiences in Vrbo guest reviews have also surged, showing how travellers will often choose a quieter stay, compared to the hustle and bustle of cities.
The Farm Charm trend is all about exploring hiking trails, connecting with animals and nature, as well as gardening.
Top Farm Charm finds from Expedia include Cider Hill Haven in New Haven, Vermont, US, and Moorhall Farm in Worcester, England.
Explore more properties with Farm Charm here.
(Image: Expedia Group)
First uncovered by Expedia in 2022, this Set-Jetting trend highlights travelling to destinations inspired by TV shows and movies.
According to the company, interest is accelerating, with 53% of travellers saying their desire to take a set-jetting trip has increased in the past year.
The 2026 Set-Jetting Forecast unveils the next wave of escapes, with Italy, Croatia, Greece and more making the list.
Read more about Set-Jetting here.
(Image: Expedia Group)
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