US Joins Canada, Brazil, Australia, Japan, South Korea, And China As Decline In Long-Haul Travel To Europe In 2026 Due To Rising Travel Costs, New Security Systems, And Regional Alternatives: Here’s What You Need To Know

Written By: Manab Baidya

Manab Baidya

I am currently studying for MA in English while also currently pursuing Journalism at Dibrugarh University. Passionate about storytelling, media, communication, and creative expression through words. Working as a Content Writer in the travel and tourism industry, where I transform destinations, experiences, and cultures into engaging stories. Constantly learning, exploring new ideas, and building a journey driven by creativity, curiosity, and meaningful content. Believer in growth, good vibes, and the power of words to connect people across the world.

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February 16, 2026 13:31 GMT+5:30

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US joins Canada, Brazil, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and China in experiencing a noticeable decline in long-haul travel to Europe in 2026. This shift is largely driven by rising travel costs, including escalating airfares and accommodation prices, which are making European trips increasingly unaffordable. Along with these financial barriers, new security systems like the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) are introducing extra steps that discourage spontaneous travel. Additionally, regional alternatives in places like Asia, Africa, and South America are becoming more attractive, offering travellers more affordable, time-efficient options closer to home, further contributing to the decline in European travel.

Long-haul travel to Europe is facing an undeniable slowdown in 2026, with several key countries showing a marked decline in interest. The latest report from the European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail reveals a complex set of factors that are reshaping the global travel landscape. Rising travel costs, security concerns, and the emergence of more affordable regional alternatives have combined to make Europe a less appealing destination for many travellers.

The decline in European long-haul visitors is most pronounced from several countries, with each facing unique challenges in terms of travel costs, time limitations, and shifting traveller preferences. Let’s take a closer look at these countries and the reasons behind this significant trend.

1. US: Travel Costs and Time Constraints Force a Shift

The United States has long been one of the largest contributors to international tourism in Europe. However, as the cost of airfares continues to rise, coupled with the increasing shortage of vacation time, many American travellers are rethinking their European holiday plans.

Why the decline?

• Rising Costs: Airfares from the US to Europe have escalated dramatically, with many travellers feeling the financial strain. Hotel and dining expenses are also climbing, making it increasingly difficult to justify an overseas trip to Europe.
• Limited Vacation Time: With only a limited number of days off per year, many US travellers are opting for closer destinations that allow them to maximise their time at the destination instead of spending long hours on flights.

As a result, the number of American tourists planning a European trip in 2026 has dropped significantly, and many are choosing regional destinations in the Americas or domestic getaways instead.

2. Canada: Rising Costs and Domestic Alternatives

Canada, too, has seen a drop in long-haul travel to Europe, with a 5% decline in travellers planning to visit European destinations in 2026.

Why the decline?

• Cost Sensitivity: High airfares, along with increased hotel prices across Europe, are pushing Canadian travellers toward closer, more affordable destinations.
• Domestic Options: With stunning natural landscapes and urban experiences on offer within Canada, many Canadians prefer to explore their own vast and diverse country rather than facing the expenses and hassle of international travel.

In this climate, Canada is experiencing a shift towards regional travel in North America, with many citizens opting for the comforts of home over the financial challenges associated with long-haul flights.

3. Brazil: Economic Pressure and Budget Sensitivity

Brazil, traditionally a strong market for European tourism, is now seeing the highest levels of cost sensitivity among travellers. Nearly 68% of Brazilian respondents in the ETC report cited high travel costs as the primary reason for avoiding long-haul travel to Europe.

Why the decline?

• Rising Airfares: Brazilian travellers are particularly affected by the increase in airfares to Europe. Many are finding European destinations too costly, especially in the wake of a fluctuating economy.
• Economic Strain: Economic uncertainty within Brazil is affecting discretionary spending. Consequently, many Brazilians are choosing closer destinations that offer similar cultural experiences but at a fraction of the cost.

As affordable regional destinations in South America become more accessible, Brazilian tourism to Europe continues to slow.

4. Australia: High Costs and Domestic Travel Preferences

Australia’s travel market is witnessing a sharp decline in interest for long-haul European vacations. High airfares, combined with a preference for domestic travel, are steering Australians away from Europe.

Why the decline?

• Cost of Long-Haul Flights: Australians are especially sensitive to long-haul flight costs, as the distance between Australia and Europe makes it one of the most expensive travel routes. With airfare prices skyrocketing, many Australians are opting for more affordable, closer alternatives.
• Domestic Alternatives: With a rich variety of local destinations, including the Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and the Gold Coast, many Australians are choosing to explore their own country rather than face the rising costs of long-haul travel.

This shift in travel behaviour is particularly evident among younger Australians, who are increasingly prioritising budget-friendly options over the allure of traditional European cities.

5. Japan: High Travel Costs and Shorter Vacations

Japan, a market that has historically sent many tourists to Europe, is now facing a notable decline in interest for long-haul travel in 2026. The reasons for this decline are tied to both rising travel expenses and the limitations of vacation time.

Why the decline?

• Rising Costs: Japanese travellers are increasingly price-sensitive, with long-haul flights to Europe becoming less appealing due to escalating airfares.
• Limited Holiday Time: Many Japanese workers receive fewer holidays than their counterparts in other countries, making it harder for them to justify spending a significant portion of their time travelling to Europe.

Consequently, Japanese travellers are increasingly looking to nearer destinations such as Southeast Asia or Oceania, where travel time is shorter and costs are lower.

6. South Korea: Changing Priorities and Budget Constraints

South Korea is also witnessing a decline in long-haul travel to Europe. While the shift isn’t as steep as in some other markets, there is a growing preference for closer, more affordable destinations.

Why the decline?

• Budget Concerns: Like Japan, South Korean travellers are facing rising costs that make long-haul European trips less attractive.
• Shifting Preferences: South Koreans are increasingly exploring regional destinations, especially in Southeast Asia, where the cost of travel is lower and flight durations are more manageable.

Although South Korean tourism to Europe remains relatively steady, it is clear that budget-conscious South Koreans are seeking more affordable travel options closer to home.

7. China: Geopolitical Tensions and Safety Concerns

While China remains one of the largest sources of inbound tourism to Europe, the country is also seeing some signs of slowing interest in long-haul travel.

Why the decline?

• Geopolitical Tensions: Concerns about safety in certain European regions, particularly amidst rising geopolitical tensions, have made some Chinese travellers wary of European destinations.
• Economic Sensitivity: Despite these concerns, Europe is still relatively strong in terms of interest, with higher-income Chinese travellers continuing to visit. However, the overall numbers are showing signs of softening, particularly due to rising travel costs.

China’s travel landscape is shifting toward closer regions, with Southeast Asia and other parts of East Asia becoming increasingly popular among travellers looking for affordable and culturally rich experiences.

Regional Alternatives Gaining Popularity

One of the key drivers behind the decline in European travel is the growing popularity of regional destinations.

• Asia: Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia offer great cultural experiences at a fraction of the cost of European vacations.
• Africa: Destinations such as Morocco, Egypt, and South Africa are becoming more accessible and appealing to travellers seeking unique cultural and natural experiences.
• South America: Nations like Argentina, Chile, and Peru are seeing an uptick in tourism as people look for affordable adventures close to home.

With increased availability of low-cost regional flights, more travellers are opting for nearer destinations rather than embarking on long-haul flights to Europe.

The long-haul travel decline to Europe in 2026 reflects a complex web of factors impacting travellers across the globe. From rising costs and limited vacation time to shifting preferences and safety concerns, Europe is facing increased competition from more affordable and closer destinations. As travellers prioritise budget flexibility and proximity, Europe’s traditional dominance in long-haul tourism is being challenged.

US joins Canada, Brazil, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and China in experiencing a decline in long-haul travel to Europe in 2026, driven by rising travel costs, new security systems like ETIAS, and the growing appeal of more affordable and time-efficient regional alternatives.

For Europe, this decline is not the end of the story. The growth of slow travel and the shift toward authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences could offer a new path forward. As the tourism industry adapts, European destinations may need to focus on delivering more cost-effective, culturally rich experiences to attract travellers in this changing landscape.