Travel on your terms: 2026 travel predictions

2026 is the year to travel your way: Ditching the cookie-cutter itineraries and defining your personal style. While 2025 saw travelers throw the vacation rulebook out of the window, next year, it’s all about authentically embracing yourself through travel. 

Whether finding solitude through a new hobby or letting the stars guide your journey, it's time to make your vacation truly unique. This year, our predictions are based on insights from more than 29,000 travelers across 33 countries and territories, so you're sure to find a trend that speaks to your personal style.

And as it’s our tenth anniversary of travel predictions, we thought it was only right to release ten trending predictions and destinations. Ready to explore on your terms?

Vacations are no longer just reserved for life’s big milestones: They're all about celebrating the little things. Finish a big project at work? Book a flight. Got through the week? Time for a getaway. This trend is about looking to turn life’s little wins into big adventures. 67% of travelers agree too, saying the spontaneity of life is a good enough reason to go on a vacation. Another 75% feel they deserve a reward for working hard all year, which justifies booking a trip. So next time you have a small win, remember it might just be the perfect reason for your next big adventure.

Manaus: A taste of the Amazon 

Why not celebrate the small wins in big style with a trip to Manaus in Brazil, one of 2026’s trending destinations? Home to the Amazon jungle, this is just the spot to experience some of the best natural wonders of the world. Remarkably remote feeling, yet home to over two million people, you’ll get the best of both worlds here. If you’re looking to truly immerse yourself in nature, why not spend the whole day in the jungle? Try out jungle trekking, fishing for piranhas, and share lunch with a local family. 

This prediction is all about finding solitude and a break from the everyday hustle by connecting with nature’s hobbies that require a little patience. From moth watching to fishing, this is all about taking time to appreciate what the world has to offer. A quarter (25%) of travelers are already on board too, saying the opportunity to take part in life’s "quieter" hobbies is enough of a reason to go on a vacation. A further 21% of travelers said they'd be happy to go on a vacation just to enjoy a natural sensory experience, such as the whistle of birds chirping or the smell of rain after a dreary afternoon. 

It’s not just about experiencing nature, but getting hands on with it too. 69% of travelers stated they’d be interested in staying at a hotel where you can forage in local nature and wilderness for your meals. All in all, this prediction is about indulging in hobbies that allow a greater and deeper connection with nature.

Sal: A tranquil escape by the sea

For those in search of a serene escape to truly indulge in their hushed hobbies, Sal in Cape Verde is just the place. The island has many opportunities to partake in a spot of birdwatching, where you can watch shearwaters, plovers, ospreys, and spoonbills swoop through the skies. 

Sal’s skies aren’t its only draw either, the island also offers breathtaking coasts, landscapes, and beaches. As 43% of travelers are already seeking to connect more with nature, this is just the place to soak in the serenity of the earth. Sal translates to salt, alluding to the island’s many salt flats, the most famous being the Pedra de Lume salt flats. Located in the crater of an extinct volcano, you’ll be able to float effortlessly due to the high saline level, making for a naturally peaceful yet unique trip.

If a vacation book is your favorite travel companion, this trend is for you. The hybrid genre of "romantasy" has been on the rise in the past year, with readers becoming fully immersed in worlds filled with dragons, werewolves, and other mythical creatures. 

In 2026, vacations are becoming a way to enter the world of fantasy. If you like the idea of towering castles, snow-capped mountains, and lush forests, you’re not alone: 71% of global travelers say they'd potentially be interested in visiting a destination that feels inspired by "romantasy."

It’s not just about the destination, either: It’s also about what you’ll get up to on your magical getaway. 39% of travelers would consider going on a "romantasy" roleplay vacation, where your romantic adventures are inspired by the fantasy genre. It’s time to brush up on your elvish – there’s a literary getaway waiting for you.

Münster: Old town charm

Oozing with a certain je ne se quoi, Münster’s 1,200-year-old charm is sure to act like a mirror into your last "romantasy" read. Home to various castles such as Schloss Münster, Hülshoff Castle, and Vischering Castle, there’s a regal, old-town feel to the city. And the origins of the Vischering Castle sound as though they could be the plot of a "romantasy" novel.

Built as a way to prevent the expansion of neighboring lords, with a duel settling future ownership, this really was a testament to a time of both love and war. Wanting to get up close and personal with the charms of the area? Well, the private guided rickshaw city tour in Münster offers an in-depth look at some of the most whimsical parts of the city, including green spaces, quiet nooks, cathedrals, and Gothic churches.

Forget about hoping to avoid turbulence on your flight, next year, travelers are using their away time to test their relationships. It’s make-or-break season, and with this trend, you’re sure to find out if you’re truly compatible with those you go on vacation with. 

From platonic friendships to colleagues and romantic relationships, next year, travelers are using their vacation time to test their relationships. 37% of travelers said they would go on vacation with a potential romantic partner, co-worker, or new friend to test compatibility, with a further 32% saying they'd maybe do the same. Ultimately, this kind of trip is all about seeing how you work as a team with those you travel with and how you navigate all kinds of vacation scenarios.

Mũi Né: Testing out something new

Why not take your relationship to the next level in Mũi Né, Vietnam, one of 2026’s trending travel spots? This sun-drenched coast offers scenic backdrops, beachy charm, and golden sands – just the destination to test your relationship. After all, nothing reveals travel compatibility like navigating a new place, managing different vacation styles and embracing a new culture, all while in paradise. Take your relationship one step further by going on activities like a Shared Sunrise or Sunset Jeep Tour in Mui Ne and uncover the most important question of all: Are they a morning or evening person?

It’s undeniable: Skin care has taken the world by storm. From "glass skin" to the booming popularity in niacinamide – this year was all about finding your glow, and travelers agree.

A whopping 80% of global travelers are open to a "glowcation," saying they’d be interested in trying out at least one beauty or wellness treatment while away. Want to combine travel and wellness? Well, 71% of travelers said they’d be interested in body movement analysis and a personalized exercise routine to help combat specific health issues or to reduce the impact of jet lag.

Port Douglas: World-class wellness

Even though 59% of travelers said they’d consider using AI or other technology to find their next skin-centered destination, we can make your planning even easier. Enter Port Douglas: Just the destination to dive into all things wellness. 

A stay at Temple Resort & Spa Port Douglas is sure to do just the trick too. Indulge in aromatic back scrubs, hydrating facials, and soothing massages. Your skin is sure to thank you after this one. 

Aside from the skin care hubs of this coastal town, here you’ll also find two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Explore the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, the world’s oldest rainforest. Get ready to find your inner peace as you admire the best of nature’s beauty.

Gone are the days of magnets – travelers are in search of an elevated memento to remember their trip by. From finding a graphically alluring tin of sardines to boldly printed maximalist mugs, knowing which destinations have the best edible and design-led goods is becoming a deciding factor for many vacationers. 

It’s time to start saving space in your suitcase, as 68% of travelers are already considering bringing back shelfie souvenirs from their travels, with a further 54% fearing they’ll regret not purchasing a memento once they get back home.

And this trend is about memories as much as it is material goods. More than a quarter (26%) say food-first souvenirs evoke memories from their vacation, while a quarter (25%) appreciate these cultural mementos for their local craft, sustainability, and traditional methods. 

Guangzhou: The city of craft and culture

In search of a shelfie souvenir that friends and family won’t be able to ignore? Well, Guangzhou in China offers outstanding mementos such as tea leaves and sets, unique flavors of chips or chilli oil, and porcelain chopsticks. 

As the birthplace of Cantonese cuisine, Guangzhou is a dream for food lovers. Wander between the mouthwatering scents of the traditional dim sum teahouses while picking up mementos that will transport you right back to the warming tastes of this Chinese city. 

In terms of crafty mementos, Guangzhou was one of the important hubs of the Maritime Silk Road, meaning it produced goods like spices and porcelain plates and bowls. So, there certainly won’t be a shortage of brag-worthy kitchen souvenirs you’ll be able to pick up from this destination. From handcrafted items to high-end goods that are steeped in history, discover your next souvenir that tells a story.

Imagine being able to step into a photo from your family's past. Well, this dream is now a reality: By using image searches to pinpoint the exact location of old family photos, you can connect with your history with ease. This trend is all about combining technology and nostalgia to make that happen. And many global travelers (66%) are already considering recreating a photo in the exact same location by using technology. 

Similarly, 36% of travelers who are interested in recreating a photo are looking to do so to feel more connected to those within the photo. For 18% of these travelers, fashion comes first. They see a trip as the perfect photo opportunity to wear a specific style of clothing seen in the original picture. Whatever your reason, get ready to stand in the same spots your ancestors once did and feel that connection to your roots.

Philadelphia: A historical immersion

For those looking to connect to history from the United States, Philadelphia offers a rich look into the beginnings of the country. As the home of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, you can immerse yourself in the place where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. 

Whether you’re looking to recreate a photo to connect with your family history (the motivation for 29% of travelers interested in photo recreation) or to bond across generations (the goal for 26% of them), Philadelphia is the perfect place to travel back in time. You can also find the Betsy Ross House in Philadelphia, where it's believed the first U.S. flag was sewn – talk about that for history!

Looking for a vacation home, but not wanting the responsibility of chores? Well, travelers agree – 2026 is the year of tech-first vacations. Forget about cleaning and cooking this holiday season – on your next getaway, tech is here to help out. In fact, 56% of travelers would be interested in a host-to-guest interaction with a robot that provided cooking and cleaning services, along with some bartending on the side. 

And it’s not just about functionality either. As technology becomes more and more advanced, travelers are becoming generally more fascinated with the concept. Some travelers say the main appeal of humanoid homes is curiosity (28%), for others, bragging rights trumps all (19%), and other travelers deem robots as a useful tool for accessibility for people with disabilities (17%). It’s time to take the "fi" out of sci-fi with this prediction, as people are increasingly seeking vacation homes that come with a robotic assistant.

Bilbao: Tech-first hospitality

Looking for a technological haven on your 2026 getaway? Look no further than Bilbao in Spain. This city is quickly becoming a hub for technological innovation, offering a blend of historical charm and futuristic flair, great for any tech-loving traveler. For example, Xing Yuan in Bilbao offers Mandarin cuisine along with a neckerchief-wearing robot waiter. Similarly, the city’s popular Guggenheim Museum also features exhibitions that comment on the ever-evolving landscape of technology.

And a stay at OH MY HOME BILBAO is sure to keep the tech going too. Try out the vacation home’s app that opens each door as you enter the building. Only 7 miles from Bilbao Airport, it’s easy to reach upon your arrival in the city too.

Road trips are being taken to a whole new level in 2026. This trend is all about embracing "meet-up"" culture and discovering the world with newly found acquaintances. To find their new crew, 38% of travelers would use AI to match with carpoolers who share their taste in music, conversation, and snacks.

Safety is also a crucial part of road tripping with new friends. In fact, travelers say they would feel more comfortable sharing the road with people who share their background (72%), gender (70%), or sexuality (66%). 

Barranquilla: From the carnival to the coast  

Colombia’s coastal city, Barranquilla, is just the destination to embark on an unforgettable road trip with new acquaintances. From the carnival to the coast, there are so many sites in this under-the-radar destination that you’ll have stories to tell for years to come. 

After all, the UNESCO-listed Carnaval de Barranquilla showcases Colombia's rich cultural diversity, setting the scene to meet new people and experience new cultures on your getaway. Falling annually on the weekend before Ash Wednesday, next year the celebration will run from February 14 to 17, 2026. Expect elaborate outfits, a dazzling atmosphere, and mouth-wateringly good food. Empanadas anyone?

After reveling in the city’s party atmosphere, travel with your newfound friends to the city’s coasts. Set along the banks of the Magdalena River, you can expect serene landscapes and soothing river breezes.

Are you hoping to manifest a trip for the next Lionsgate Portal? Maybe you’re looking to take astrocartography to the next level. Regardless of your motivations, astrology and travel are your perfect match. Many travelers agree too, with 47% already considering going on a spiritual journey to travel to sacred sites such as stone circles and temples.

Some travelers are even shifting their travel schedules to align with cosmic timing. In fact, 47% of travelers would consider rethinking their trip entirely if a spiritual advisor suggested their cosmic timing was off. Similarly, 17% of travelers said they’d consider changing their schedule in alignment with astrological events like eclipses or full moons. The sky really is the limit with this trend.

Kochi: Naturally mystical escapes

Known for its spirituality, Kochi offers a profound experience for those interested in astrology. As a hub for gemstones, you can shop for high-quality stones and seek advice on which ones align with your astrological chart.

Beyond its impressive jewelry collection, this waterfront city is shaped by centuries of global trade and cultural exchange, offering many different facets of astrology to explore. From the traditional Hindu system of Vedic Astrology to the ancient Nadi Astrology that uses palm leaf readings, there are so many ways to explore this destined-ation.

2026 is the year to travel on your terms. From the romantically fantastical landscapes of Münster to the rising popularity of humanoid homes, travel is becoming a reflection of your personal interests. 

And as James Waters, Chief Business Officer at Booking.com, notes: "In 2026, travel is becoming a reflection of who people truly are, with journeys built around interests that perhaps in the past felt too niche or bold to explore. Travelers are stress-testing relationships, stepping into fantasy worlds, turning their kitchens into reflections of their journeys, and looking at new ways to experience road trips and vacation rentals with enhanced technology features. At Booking.com, we're continuously evolving to make it easier for everyone to experience the world and fully lean into their dream trips by offering more choice, flexibility, and convenience than ever before."

For more information, take a look at our press release: The era of YOU: Booking.com Predicts the Top Trends Defining Travel in 2026.

Travel Predictions 2026 research commissioned by Booking.com and conducted among a sample of adults who plan to travel for business or leisure in the next 12–24 months. In total, 29,733 respondents across 33 countries and territories were polled (including 1,009 from Argentina, 1,005 from Australia, 500 from Austria, 1,013 from Belgium, 1,008 from Brazil, 1,018 from Canada, 1,009 from China, 1,005 from Colombia, 508 from Croatia, 501 from Denmark, 1,010 from France, 1,003 from Germany, 1,004 from Hong Kong, 1,007 from India, 509 from Ireland, 507 from Israel, 1,005 from Italy, 1,003 from Japan, 1,003 from Mexico, 1,019 from The Netherlands, 1,033 from New Zealand, 1,006 from Portugal, 500 from Singapore, 1,003 from South Korea, 1,009 from Spain, 511 from Sweden, 501 from Switzerland, 504 from Taiwan, 1,001 from Thailand, 501 from the UAE, 2,003 from the U.K., 2,010 from the U.S., and 505 from Vietnam). Respondents completed an online survey in July–August.