The 2026 traveler will be more authentic, technological, and emotional: the 10 trends that will shape the future of tourism
Booking.com presented its 2026 Travel Predictions, based on more than 29,000 travelers from 33 countries, and revealed how the industry is heading towards increasingly personalized, conscious experiences aligned with each person's identity
The way we travel continues to evolve, and by 2026, tourism will be defined by a more authentic, experiential traveler, connected to their own passions. This is according to Booking.com's Travel Predictions 2026, a study that this year celebrates a decade of analyzing changes in traveler behavior globally.
Based on responses from more than 29,000 people in 33 countries and territories, the report shows that vacations are no longer just a break, but an extension of personal identity. From astrology-guided experiences to futuristic accommodations, the new traveler seeks to reflect who they are, what they feel, and what motivates them.
The research also confirms the increasingly prominent role of technology, which allows for the design of ultra-personalized experiences, improves well-being, and facilitates more conscious decisions, both socially and environmentally.
As part of the launch, Booking.com took this concept to the cultural level with a creative initiative that connects travel trends with artistic experiences, reinforcing the idea that tourism is also a form of emotional and cultural expression.
According to Booking.com, 2026 trends confirm that today's traveler is no longer just looking for destinations, but for experiences that tell their personal story, integrating well-being, entertainment, nostalgia, human connection, and technology.
Top 10 Travel Predictions for 2026
Journeys written by the stars
Souvenir cupboard – transforming memories into cultural spaces
Modern milestones – travel to celebrate yourself
Silent hobbies – experiences of mindful calm
Express Test – trips that test bonds
Romantic retreats – getaways to enchanted worlds
Hitchhiking Adventures 3.0 – Shared Rides
Retro travel – where memories become destinations
Travel with sparkle – wellness and personal care powered by technology
Humanoid houses – the future of tourist rentals
Source: Booking.com – Travel Predictions 2026