The Points Guy Reveals 2026 Travel Trends: Emerging Destinations and Evolving Travel Rewards, All You Need To Know

Published on December 7, 2025

The travel landscape for 2026 promises to be shaped by shifting economic factors, emerging destinations, and a growing focus on loyalty programs and rewards. The Points Guy (TPG), a leading platform dedicated to maximizing travel experiences while minimizing spending, has released its comprehensive 2026 Travel Trends Report. This report outlines key changes expected in the coming year that will influence how and where travelers journey.

Despite global uncertainties, economic shifts, and changing government policies, Americans remain committed to travel, with a noticeable shift in how they plan their trips. The 2026 report indicates that travelers are becoming more mindful of their spending and increasingly seeking destinations that are off the beaten path, offering both value and unique experiences.

Evolving Travel Habits: A Move Toward Unique, Affordable Destinations

Americans are shifting their travel habits in response to rising travel costs and economic concerns. Instead of flocking to crowded, high-cost cities, travelers are opting for less-visited locations that promise more authentic and nature-focused experiences. The trend of exploring emerging destinations is particularly strong, as over 16% of Americans plan to focus their 2026 travels on destinations that are less crowded and more affordable.

Airlines are responding to this demand by expanding routes to alternative cities, including lesser-known domestic locations like Norfolk, VA, and Wilmington, NC, and international destinations such as Ho Chi Minh City and Adelaide, Australia. Additionally, the popularity of smaller airports has surged, with search volumes for locations like Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) in Colorado and Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport (BZN) showing impressive growth in 2026.

Hotel brands are also diversifying their offerings. Major hotel loyalty programs are forming new partnerships with boutique and luxury chains, such as Mr & Mrs Smith and Small Luxury Hotels of the World. These collaborations are providing more opportunities for travelers to maximize their rewards while staying in unique, high-end properties. These shifts highlight the growing demand for personalization in travel, where luxury and authenticity are key factors in travelers’ decisions.

Impact of Economic Uncertainty and Currency Shifts

Economic uncertainty, particularly the weakening of the U.S. dollar, is influencing travel decisions. In the first half of 2025, the U.S. dollar experienced a 10% dip, marking the most significant drop since 1973. This devaluation is expected to impact international travel in 2026, with U.S. travelers receiving less value abroad in countries like the United Kingdom and in the Eurozone.

However, travelers planning visits to regions such as New Zealand, the East Caribbean, and Brazil will find their dollars going further, as these areas continue to offer favourable exchange rates. As the value of the U.S. dollar fluctuates, travelers are advised to carefully consider exchange rates when planning trips to international destinations in 2026.

The Growing Divide Between Premium and Budget Experiences

The gap between premium and budget travel experiences is widening in 2026. Luxury travel continues to grow, with high-end services and products increasingly targeted at wealthier travelers. Credit card issuers are amplifying their luxury offerings, with enhanced benefits linked to travel, retail, and lifestyle experiences. However, these perks come at a significant cost, annual fees for cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve and the American Express Platinum Card have surged, reflecting the expanding range of exclusive rewards.

Airlines, too, are investing heavily in premium services, including improved front-of-cabin experiences, upgraded lounges, and new members-only access tiers. Complimentary elite upgrades are becoming less common, replaced by paid comfort options and exclusive services. This trend underscores the growing importance of maximizing loyalty points and rewards to access these luxury offerings without breaking the bank.

AI Revolutionizes Travel Planning

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way travelers plan their trips. AI tools are now integrated into major airlines and hotel operations, enabling travelers to book flights, compare prices, and find deals more efficiently. Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge, with over half of these groups using AI to plan their travels. Estimates suggest that AI tools can reduce the time spent on travel planning by up to 80%, streamlining the process and offering more time for enjoying the destination itself.

Despite the efficiency AI offers, the importance of human connections in the travel industry remains intact. Travelers still benefit from authentic interactions with airline and hotel staff, particularly when it comes to managing last-minute changes or securing upgrades. While AI can provide convenience, the human element of travel is still valued by many.

Maximizing Travel Rewards in 2026

As travel becomes more personalized, the importance of loyalty programs and credit card rewards continues to rise. Choosing the right credit card is now more complex than ever, as issuers build expansive brand ecosystems with exclusive perks tied to their partner networks. Travelers must carefully evaluate their cards to ensure they are maximizing the benefits, especially with increasing annual fees.

Tools like Seats.aero and Rooms.aero are helping savvy travelers avoid unused perks and ensure they are getting the most out of their rewards programs. For those who have mastered the points and miles game, 2026 will offer even greater opportunities to unlock exclusive experiences at destinations they may not have previously considered.

Adapting to a Dynamic Travel Landscape in 2026

The 2026 Travel Trends Report from The Points Guy highlights a rapidly evolving travel industry, where strategic planning, emerging destinations, and the effective use of loyalty programs will define the travel experience. As travelers look to navigate an increasingly complex landscape, focusing on personalized, affordable, and unique experiences will be essential to staying ahead in 2026. From leveraging AI to mastering the art of rewards, the savvy traveler will find a wealth of opportunities to explore new destinations without breaking the bank.