Technology, flexibility, and conscious decision-making are shaping how the world travels in 2026. While the desire for discovery remains timeless, the way people approach journeys—from planning and booking to experiencing destinations—is evolving at pace.
Corné Alberts, National Marketing Manager at ANEW Hotels & Resorts, highlights the key trends defining how travellers will explore the world in 2026.
Top Travel Trends 2026
1. AI as Your Travel Concierge
Artificial intelligence has become the ultimate travel companion. From itinerary design to automatic flight rebooking and personalised activity suggestions, AI-powered tools are transforming how we plan and experience travel.
Navigation apps such as Citymapper now offer real-time comparisons of routes by cost and convenience, while airports and hotels are embracing biometric boarding, mobile check-in, and live luggage tracking.
But as automation rises, travellers are seeking balance—embracing technology without losing the spontaneity and warmth of human interaction.
2. Hyper-Personalisation Becomes the Norm
From room service menus that adapt to dietary needs to loyalty programmes that remember your favourite coffee or pillow, travel is becoming deeply personal. Hotels and apps are increasingly mirroring streaming platforms like Netflix—delivering tailor-made recommendations that make each stay feel truly yours.
3. Connectivity on Your Terms
The expectation of constant connectivity—Wi-Fi on long-haul flights and fast mobile networks—is now standard. Yet, “digital detox” travel is on the rise, with signal-free lodges and wellness retreats offering space to disconnect.
The key is control: travellers want to choose when to be reachable, not be dictated by technology.
4. Flexibility Is Non-Negotiable
In a post-pandemic, high-demand world, flexibility has become a baseline expectation. Travellers are choosing refundable stays, open-date passes, and experiences that allow space for downtime or spontaneous exploration.
Structured itineraries remain popular—but with built-in breathing room that lets travellers pivot as plans or moods change.
5. Families on the Move
Family travel continues to grow, with airlines improving kid-friendly boarding, entertainment, and seating. Hotels are responding with family suites, child-centric activities, and flexible dining. The goal is simple: to make travel easier, stress-free, and meaningful for parents and children alike.
6. Seasonal Shifts
Travellers are becoming strategic about timing. Instead of the crowded European summer, many now opt for late June or even winter travel for fewer tourists, better prices, and easier access to attractions. When you go is now as important as where you go.
7. Local Knowledge Over Algorithms
Even as AI reshapes the industry, local human insight remains invaluable. Travellers are rediscovering the joy of learning from concierges, bartenders, and locals—merging digital convenience with authentic connection.
8. Lifestyle in Transit
Comfort has become the new luxury. Athleisure and adaptable fabrics dominate modern travel wardrobes, designed for versatility from plane to dinner table. Travellers are prioritising practical elegance—comfort without compromise.