American Travelers Seek New Experiences Closer To Home In 2026, As Interest In The UK, France, And Greece Continues To Decline

Published on December 10, 2025

As American travelers look to redefine their vacation plans in 2026, there’s a noticeable shift away from traditional European destinations like the UK, France, and Greece. Instead, many are seeking fresh and unique experiences closer to home, driven by a desire for more personalized and cost-effective travel. This growing preference for domestic getaways is shaping a new travel trend, as Americans prioritize convenience, safety, and novel experiences over international travel, reflecting changing priorities and evolving travel habits.

Americans’ travel habits for 2026 are shifting dramatically toward more affordable, less publicized, and milder tourism options. The combination of economic uncertainty, a weakening dollar, evolving government policies, and a growing desire to avoid overcrowded tourist destinations is driving this transformation. As a result, iconic international cities are seeing a decline in travel searches, while more budget-friendly, off-the-beaten-path destinations, both domestic and international, are gaining in popularity.

Travel searches for major European cities such as Athens, London, and Paris have dropped significantly in recent months, signaling a noticeable change in preferences. While these cities remain culturally rich and offer invaluable travel experiences, the growing trend is toward value-driven choices. The increasing costs associated with international travel, combined with the dollar’s depreciation, have led many American travelers to reconsider their vacation plans, opting instead for destinations that offer better value for their money, fewer crowds, and more authentic experiences.

According to the latest 2026 Travel Trends Report, the depreciation of the dollar and stricter immigration policies are reshaping American travelers’ preferences. Economic fluctuations are reducing the purchasing power of many U.S. citizens, making it harder to afford travel to traditional international hubs. In addition, rising prices for international flights and accommodations are encouraging many to explore less mainstream, more affordable options. Although international travel is still in demand, Americans are increasingly choosing destinations that provide greater value, often selecting less publicized or off-the-beaten-path spots, especially those ideal for travel during shoulder seasons. These alternatives allow travelers to experience the essence of foreign destinations without breaking the bank.

The report also notes that 39% of Americans plan to spend less on travel in 2026 compared to previous years. Younger travelers, in particular, are more focused on cutting costs, often opting for budget accommodations, lower-cost flights, and exploring destinations that aren’t overcrowded with tourists. Among this group, 16% of travelers say they are prioritizing less crowded locations that aren’t the traditional, well-known travel hotspots. This desire to avoid overtourism is evident in the rising interest in domestic travel.

Search data shows a sharp rise in demand for destinations within the U.S. Smaller airports and less conventional travel locations are becoming increasingly popular. For example, places like Hayden, Colorado, have seen a massive 1,156% increase in search interest, while Key West in Florida and Bozeman in Montana have recorded increases of 225% and 109%, respectively. Nearly 70% of destinations that have experienced more than a doubling in search activity are domestic, further demonstrating the trend of Americans favoring homegrown travel over international destinations.

This domestic travel shift reflects the changing landscape of the American traveler. Many are now more inclined to explore places they may have previously overlooked in favor of traditional tourist hotspots. With smaller cities and towns across the U.S. becoming more appealing, travelers are finding unexpected gems that offer unique, authentic experiences without the high price tag.

At the same time, the travel industry is seeing a widening gap between luxury and budget travel options. Luxury travel, particularly in metropolitan destinations, is becoming more exclusive and expensive. High-end hotels, airlines, and resorts are focusing on an elite group of affluent travelers, enhancing their premium services to cater to this select market. On the other hand, budget-conscious travelers are leveraging credit card points, loyalty programs, and other cost-saving measures to access high-quality experiences at more affordable prices. This trend is helping many mid-range travelers enjoy experiences they may have once considered out of reach.

The Travel Trends Report also highlights how airlines are expanding their networks to include less-traveled destinations. Both domestic and international airlines are increasingly offering flights to smaller cities or alternative international locations, catering to the growing demand for less crowded, more affordable travel options. At the same time, many international hotel brands are forming partnerships with boutique properties to offer more distinctive, personalized experiences. This collaboration is helping to provide authentic stays that appeal to younger travelers seeking unique accommodations.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become a key player in the travel industry, playing a significant role in planning, management, and customer service. Airlines and hotels are using AI to optimize operations, improve efficiency, and offer quicker solutions. However, the Travel Trends Report warns that while AI can be a useful tool, over-reliance on technology might reduce the human touch that is often essential for creating meaningful travel experiences. Despite the rise of AI, many travelers still prefer personal recommendations and local insights when visiting a new destination. According to research, 89% of travelers agree that the best way to explore a destination is with a local guide, underlining the importance of human interaction in creating a well-rounded travel experience.

The report also touches on the growing trend of volunteer tourism, which aligns with regenerative travel practices. Volunteer tourism, where travelers engage in meaningful activities that benefit local communities, is gaining momentum. The global market for volunteer tourism is expected to grow from $848.9 million in 2023 to $1.27 billion by 2030. This type of tourism is becoming increasingly popular as travelers look for ways to give back to the communities they visit while also enriching their own travel experiences. The rise of volunteer tourism also reflects a broader shift toward sustainable and community-focused travel that seeks to have a positive impact on the destinations visited.

In 2026, American travelers are moving away from traditional European hotspots like the UK, France, and Greece, favoring closer, more personalized experiences at home due to a desire for convenience, safety, and affordability.

In summary, the American travel landscape in 2026 is evolving toward more cost-effective, less crowded, and more authentic travel experiences. The weakening dollar, increasing travel costs, and a growing desire to avoid overtourism are pushing American travelers toward alternative destinations. As a result, both domestic and international travel is becoming more diverse, with travelers seeking out new, affordable, and enriching experiences. This shift is reshaping how people approach travel, highlighting the importance of value, flexibility, and sustainability in the modern travel experience.