Seven travel trends set to define 2026

How next year’s tourism will reflect deeper shifts in priorities — from beauty and food to mountains and meaning

Travelers heading into 2026 are shifting away from conventional holidays and embracing more personal, purposeful, and experience-rich journeys. According to the report from Skyscanner that underpins the article, this means trips shaped not just by destinations, but by what travellers want to feel and discover: local beauty rituals, everyday food culture, high-altitude escapes, and more meaningful connections with places. The article argues that travel in 2026 will be defined by authenticity, personal rhythm, and a desire for deeper experiences rather than surface-level tourism. Overall, travel is becoming more intentional, grounded, and reflective of individual values and desires.

Key takeaways:

• Beauty as a travel motive: Skincare routines, beauty rituals and local cosmetic culture will influence travel choices — turning beauty into a core part of the travel experience rather than an afterthought.
• Food-centric exploration (“Shelf Discovery”): Culinary tourism is evolving — travellers are increasingly exploring local supermarkets, snack aisles and everyday food outlets, seeking authentic food culture rather than just restaurant dining.
• Altitude escapes and mountain travel surge: Many travellers are looking to mountains and high-altitude destinations for serenity, nature, and year-round escapes — not only for skiing, but for calm, restorative experiences off-peak.
• Personalised, passion-led itineraries: Trips in 2026 are likely to be more tailored to individual passions and interests — from beauty to food to nature — reflecting a broader shift toward meaningful and bespoke travel.
• Decline of “tourist checklist” holidays: The emphasis is moving away from ticking off iconic sights; instead, travellers value slower, more immersive and locally rooted experiences that offer authenticity and depth.
• Travel as well-being and restoration: More people view travel as a form of self-care — opportunities to reset, reconnect with nature or culture, and escape the pressures of everyday life.

Get the full story at the BBC