- Priceline’s 2026 report forecasts seven defining travel trends emphasizing exploration and spontaneity.
- Travelers expect to increase their leisure travel days and budgets in the coming year.
- Trends include spontaneous “treat” trips, revisiting nostalgic places, and adventure-focused beach vacations.
- New motivations for travel include exploring the Midwest, engaging in college town tourism, and seeking digital detox.
Priceline has released its “Where to Next?” Travel Trends Report for 2026, outlining seven key travel behaviors and destinations anticipated to shape the upcoming year. The report indicates a shift towards more exploration, spontaneity, and connection in travel plans, evolving from intentional travel observed in 2025. Travelers are expected to dedicate an average of 15 days to leisure travel next year and plan to increase their travel budgets by approximately $350.
The report identifies several specific trends. “Little Treat Travel” involves spontaneous, short getaways booked for mood-boosting indulgences. “Midwest Quests” highlights the rising popularity of the Midwest for its unique attractions and affordability. “DéjàView” describes a trend where Millennials and Gen Z revisit nostalgic childhood destinations to reconnect with their past. For those seeking adventure, “Expedition Beach” focuses on adrenaline-fueled beach activities over simple relaxation.
Other trends include “Tailgate Tourism,” where college towns become popular weekend destinations beyond game days, driven by the vibrant atmosphere. “Kidfluence” acknowledges the growing role of children in family trip planning, with parents allowing their youngest travelers to lead the way. Finally, “Dead Zoning” signifies a strong desire for digital detox, with travelers seeking remote escapes to fully unplug and establish clearer work-life boundaries during vacations.
Priceline’s research, based on proprietary data and a survey of 3,006 U.S. adults, suggests that artificial intelligence will play a growing role in travel planning, further empowering travelers to customize their journeys. The overarching theme for 2026 is a blend of impulse and intention, with travelers embracing both the familiar and the new to create meaningful travel experiences.
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