Must-Know Travel Trends for 2026: From AI Travel Planning to Mountain Escapes

Published on November 17, 2025

Coming to 2026, the manner in which we travel is changed. This is mainly due to advancements in technology, the demand for unusual Travel Trends, and including distant or remote locations. This special and tailored experience is customized to everyone–from the adventure seekers to the culture aficionados to the people who just want to take a break. Here is a taste of the most in vogue travel destinations and trends that will feature in your holidays.

1. Italy and Spain: The Dream Destinations for 2026

Italy and Spain continue to reign as top destinations, according to multiple travel reports. While individual sources like Expedia and SkyScanner feature varying locations—such as Big Sky in the US or Salerno in Italy—the overwhelming trend is a growing love for Mediterranean and European destinations. From the historic ruins of Rome to Spain’s sun-drenched beaches, these countries are poised to attract more visitors in 2026. However, don’t overlook other rising stars like Japan and France, which are also experiencing a boom in traveller interest.

Travel Tip: Book early to secure prime spots in popular Italian and Spanish cities. Consider staying in boutique hotels or heritage properties for a more intimate experience.

2. Embrace Tranquility in the Mountains

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, many travellers are looking to escape to more serene environments. The trend of booking mountain retreats is on the rise, with searches for rooms offering stunning mountain views soaring by over 100%. Destinations like the Sapa Mountains in Vietnam and Banff in Canada are becoming increasingly popular. The trend isn’t just about peaceful surroundings; travellers are also looking for opportunities to stargaze, chase the Northern Lights, or visit volcanoes, all of which are gaining traction in travel searches.

Travel Tip: For an immersive experience, opt for eco-friendly accommodations or hikes that allow you to connect with nature while also minimizing your carbon footprint.

3. Set-Jetting: When Movies Inspire Your Travels

A fascinating trend to watch in 2026 is “set-jetting”—travelling to locations made famous by films and TV shows. With streaming platforms releasing content at an unprecedented pace, audiences are flocking to destinations they’ve seen on screen. From the luxurious resorts in The White Lotus to iconic landmarks featured in the Downton Abbey franchise, set-jetting is projected to become an $8 billion industry in the United States alone.

Travel Tip: If you’re planning a set-jetting adventure, don’t just visit the filming locations. Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring nearby attractions and dining at local eateries.

4. Sports Travel: Get in the Game

For sports enthusiasts, 2026 will be the year to combine travel with their passion for sports. Beyond the major global events like the Olympics, there’s a growing interest in local sporting events. From Muay Thai in Thailand to sumo wrestling in Japan and curling in Canada, more and more people are choosing destinations based on sporting experiences. For those who want to take part in the action, endurance sports like Hyrox are gaining in popularity, making sports travel an exciting and growing niche.

Travel Tip: Plan your trip around major sports events. Many venues offer packages that include access to live events, local tours, and special sports-related experiences.

5. “Readaways”: Retreats for Book Lovers

Reading retreats, or “readaways,” are a rapidly growing trend, particularly for those who want to combine relaxation with their love of literature. Whether it’s a cozy cottage in the countryside or a beachside chalet, these retreats offer a peaceful environment for unwinding with a good book. The rise of “BookTok” and other online reading communities has only heightened the desire to escape to literary havens.

Travel Tip: Search for vacation rentals that cater specifically to book lovers. Many now offer curated book collections and even book-themed activities to enhance your stay.

6. The Glow-Cation: Beauty and Wellness Travel

Wellness travel continues to be a strong trend, but in 2026, it’s evolving into a more personalized experience. “Glow-cations,” or beauty-focused holidays, are seeing increased demand, particularly in destinations known for their wellness offerings, like South Korea and Europe. From skin treatments to spa visits, these trips are designed to help travellers rejuvenate both their bodies and minds.

Travel Tip: For a true glow-cation experience, book treatments in advance, and explore local wellness traditions to deepen your connection to the place you’re visiting.

7. Supermarket Souvenirs: A New Way to Experience Local Culture

Food-related travel is nothing new, but in 2026, travellers are increasingly seeking souvenirs from local supermarkets. Whether it’s Iceland’s geothermal baked bread or Japan’s unique vending machine snacks, people are looking for authentic food items to take home. These culinary discoveries offer a deeper connection to the culture and provide an exciting twist to the typical souvenir shopping experience.

Travel Tip: Explore local markets and supermarkets in your destination. They often offer items not found in tourist shops and can provide a more authentic taste of local culture.

8. Hotel-Hopping: A New Way to Explore Cities

Hotel-hopping is gaining popularity, especially among younger travellers. This trend involves staying at multiple hotels within one city, giving you the chance to explore different neighbourhoods and experiences. In major cities like Tokyo, London, and Paris, hotel-hopping offers a unique way to maximise your trip and enjoy diverse styles of accommodation.

Travel Tip: Plan your hotel-hopping itinerary in advance, and make sure to choose properties in different areas to get a full sense of the city’s diverse offerings.

9. AI in Travel Planning: The Future is Here

Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we travel. In 2026, AI is expected to become an integral part of the travel experience, helping travellers with everything from flight bookings to itinerary planning. AI tools like chatbots and travel assistants are already being used to provide real-time information and personalized recommendations, making the travel process smoother and more efficient.

Travel Tip: Take advantage of AI-driven travel platforms to plan your trip. These tools can help you compare options, get the best deals, and even provide on-the-go assistance.

The next few years between today and 2026 important adjustments in the travel world have been predicted. In 2026 traveling will be for the purpose of wellness while also being self indulgent. Mountain getaways will be altered will be altered to include more spa services and relaxing wellness options. Experiencing and engaging with the local culture will be an important traveling factor. Film location sight-seeing will also be more prevalent. These and the rest of the predicted vacations are going to be tailored specifically for the customers. With this information in mind one can travel in the predicted travel trends. 2026 will be a fully personalized and unforgettable travel experience.