The report identifies seven key trends, including beauty-focused travel, culinary tourism through local supermarkets, year-round mountain escapes, literature-inspired trips, solo travel for social connections, multi-generational family trips, and hotels as primary destinations.
Skyscanner has unveiled its Travel Trends 2026 report, highlighting the evolving preferences of travelers. The report combines Skyscanner’s data with insights from global consumer research and contributions from renowned brands to identify seven significant trends shaping the future of travel.
Glowmads: The Beauty Trend
The report identifies a growing interest in integrating beauty rituals into travel experiences. In 2026, 27% of UK travelers are keen to explore local beauty cultures, influenced by social media platforms like TikTok. This trend emphasizes how beauty routines are becoming a part of travel itineraries, with destinations like Seoul leading the way in beauty culture.
Shelf Discovery: The Food Trend
Culinary tourism is evolving, with travelers opting for local supermarkets over traditional restaurant reservations. This shift allows for a deeper cultural experience and a budget-friendly approach to exploring local cuisines. The trend highlights how travelers are embracing unique food experiences, from Tokyo’s vending machines to Iceland’s geothermal baked bread.
Altitude Shift: The Mountain Trend
The allure of mountain escapes is growing, with 71% of travelers considering alpine getaways for serenity and adventure. Skyscanner reports a 103% increase in hotel bookings with mountain views, indicating a rising interest in year-round alpine retreats. Destinations like the Dolomites and the Canadian Rockies are becoming popular for their off-peak tranquility.
Bookbound: The Literature Trend
Literature-inspired travel is gaining traction, with travelers booking trips to trace the footsteps of fictional characters or visit iconic bookshops. This trend reflects a desire to escape, reconnect, and restore through literature. Skyscanner’s data shows a 70% increase in hotel bookings using the “library” filter, underscoring the appeal of literary-themed travel.
Catching Flights and Feelings: The Solo Trend
Solo travel is on the rise, driven by a desire to meet new people and form connections. More than a third of travelers are considering trips to meet friends or potential partners. This trend is particularly popular among Gen Z and Boomers, with an 83% increase in hotel bookings using the “solo” filter.
Family Miles: The Family Trend
Multi-generational travel is becoming more common as families seek to create lasting memories together. With budget considerations and young adults living at home, families are finding creative ways to travel. This trend highlights the importance of shared experiences and time spent together across generations.
Destination Check-in: The Hotel Trend
Hotels are increasingly becoming the focal point of travel experiences. Travelers are choosing destinations based on unique accommodations, with 27% having stayed in hotels that are an integral part of the travel experience. This trend reflects a shift towards prioritizing distinctive stays that offer more than just a place to sleep.
The Future of Travel
Looking ahead, travel is expected to become more curated and intelligent. With 84% of travelers planning to travel as much or more in 2026 compared to 2025, there is a focus on maximizing budgets for richer experiences. Artificial intelligence is anticipated to play a significant role in enhancing travel planning and support, while social media and search platforms continue to influence travel inspiration and research.
Conclusion
Skyscanner’s 2026 Travel Trends report highlights a shift towards personalized, purpose-driven travel experiences. These trends reflect travelers’ desires for unique, meaningful, and budget-conscious journeys, indicating a transformative period in the travel industry.
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