HomeToGo 2026 Travel Trends Reveal Rising Star Destinations in the US: Affordable, Unique Vacation Spots on the Rise

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As 2026 approaches, travel trends are evolving, with new destinations emerging as favorites among travelers. The latest 2026 Travel Trends Forecast from HomeToGo, the leading European vacation rental group and marketplace with the world’s largest selection of vacation rentals, sheds light on the key factors influencing travel in the coming year. This forecast, based on a combination of exclusive search and pricing data and traveler sentiment surveys, highlights five essential themes shaping the future of travel and reveals the rising star destinations that are gaining popularity.

The Rising Trend of “Hidden Gem” Destinations

In response to growing traveler interest, HomeToGo’s survey and data have highlighted an increasing demand for lesser-known locations, with travelers turning to more affordable and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Over the last year, the number of travelers actively seeking hidden gems has surged, with 27% of respondents expressing interest in visiting lesser-explored places in 2026. This trend is particularly significant for younger generations, who are increasingly inspired by social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where these destinations are often showcased by influencers and content creators.

According to the survey, 76% of U.S. travelers plan to vacation in 2026, with 26% of them opting for longer and more extravagant trips. These travelers are seeking unique, cost-effective locations that blend local culture, scenic beauty, and distinctive experiences. For these travelers, the affordable prices and under-the-radar appeal of certain destinations have become a primary attraction.

El Paso, Texas: An Unexpected Rising Star

One of the standout findings from the HomeToGo 2026 Travel Trends Forecast is the remarkable rise in popularity of El Paso, Texas. A city not traditionally known as a major tourist hub, El Paso has experienced an impressive 191% year-over-year increase in search interest, making it one of the top “Rising Star Destinations” in the Southwest and Mountain West regions.

HomeToGo’s data shows that travelers are drawn to El Paso’s desert landscapes and its appeal as a frontier-style town with modern Western flair. The city’s affordability is also a key factor in its growing popularity. With a median nightly accommodation price of $62.21, El Paso is significantly more affordable compared to major cities like Dallas or Houston, which adds to its allure for budget-conscious travelers.

The Neo-Western Revival: Western Destinations Gain Popularity

El Paso’s rise is part of a larger trend toward Western destinations, with travelers increasingly interested in places that offer desert landscapes, rugged terrain, and frontier-style towns. This Neo-Western Revival has been fueled in part by social media and pop culture, where new music releases and film adaptations have brought Western themes back into the mainstream. For example, the upcoming release of a new Wuthering Heights movie has caused a surge in searches for North Yorkshire, the setting of the novel and its film adaptation, which saw a 311% increase in search interest year-over-year.

Destinations like Yucca Valley, Cañon City, Bisbee, El Paso, Queen Creek, and Marana are now emerging as part of the Neo-Western Revival, with travelers looking for authentic experiences that combine history, culture, and natural beauty. The trend is also driven by younger travelers, particularly Gen Z and Millennials, who are increasingly turning to smaller towns in the Southwest and Mountain West for their vacations.

Other Key Destinations in the Neo-Western Revival

In addition to El Paso, HomeToGo’s forecast highlights other rising star Western destinations for 2026, including:

• Yucca Valley, California – Search interest has increased by 198% year-over-year, with a median nightly price of $47.88.
• Cañon City, Colorado – With a 213% increase in search interest, this city offers a rustic charm with a median nightly price of $51.75.
• Bisbee, Arizona – This historic town has seen a 117% increase in searches, offering a median nightly price of $53.00.
• Queen Creek, Arizona – Search interest up by 142%, with a median nightly price of $79.90.
• Marana, Arizona – With a 297% surge in search interest, Marana offers a median nightly price of $98.75.

These destinations, while smaller and less crowded, are offering authentic experiences in the American West, attracting travelers who are seeking unique landscapes, outdoor activities, and a break from the larger resort areas.

Other Emerging Travel Trends for 2026

In addition to the Neo-Western Revival, HomeToGo’s report identified several other key trends shaping the travel landscape for 2026:

• Rising Interest in National Parks and Wilderness Areas: Forty percent of surveyed travelers expressed a desire to visit national parks and wilderness areas in 2026. Among Gen Z, this figure rose to 44%, reflecting a growing interest in rugged landscapes and outdoor adventures. Destinations such as North Wales, Scottish Highlands, and Donegal, Ireland are gaining attention as prime locations for nature lovers.
• Gourmet Travel in Picturesque Towns: Smaller, picturesque cities and towns are seeing an increase in traveler interest, especially those offering both scenic beauty and exceptional food experiences. Locations like Durbuy, Orvieto, Trogir, and Annecy are being highlighted for their charming ambiance and gourmet offerings. These destinations are catering to travelers seeking both culture and culinary experiences.

Seaside Slowdown: The Rise of Relaxing Beach Retreats

In addition to mountains and rural landscapes, beach destinations are also on the rise. Over half of the travelers surveyed (54%) indicated they are planning beach vacations for 2026. Destinations like Weligama (Sri Lanka), Flic en Flac (Mauritius), and Pulau Perhentian (Malaysia) are gaining popularity for their serene settings and affordable accommodations. These destinations offer travelers the chance to relax and unwind, with many also focused on mental well-being and rejuvenation.

Travel Preferences for 2026: Longer, More Expensive Vacations

The survey also revealed that 76% of U.S. travelers plan to go on vacation in 2026, with 26% of them booking longer and more extravagant vacations. As the appetite for travel continues to grow, 57% of travelers indicated they plan to spend more on vacations compared to 2025. This reflects a strong interest in exploring new destinations, with a focus on finding both affordable and unique experiences.

Conclusion: 2026’s Travel Landscape

As HomeToGo’s Travel Trends Forecast for 2026 illustrates, travelers are increasingly turning to hidden gems and under-the-radar destinations in search of authentic experiences and affordable stays. Cities like El Paso, with its rugged desert landscapes and affordable accommodation options, are just the beginning of a broader shift towards smaller towns and unique locales. Whether seeking outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or simply a relaxing beach retreat, travelers in 2026 are eager to discover new destinations away from the crowds. The year ahead promises to bring exciting changes in the way people approach travel, with a greater focus on authenticity, affordability, and personalized experiences.