🌍 Travel Trends 2026: What UK & US Wanderers Need to Know

1

Slow Travel: Embracing the Art of Taking Time

One of the strongest travel trends in 2026 is slow travel. Instead of rushing from one landmark to another, travellers are choosing to spend more time in fewer locations, diving deeper into culture, local life, and hidden gems.

Why it’s happening:

• After years of “bucket list” tourism, many travellers from the UK and US are prioritizing quality over quantity.
• Extended stays provide opportunities to learn local customs, cuisine, and lifestyle, creating deeper connections.
• Travellers seek stress-free holidays that recharge the mind and body rather than exhausting it.

Practical tips for UK & US travellers:

• Choose a base city and explore surroundings instead of hopping between multiple locations. For example, use Barcelona as a base to explore Catalonia’s small towns, or stay in New Orleans and take day trips to nearby plantations and bayous.
• Book longer stays in rental apartments rather than hotels to enjoy flexibility and a local feel.
• Engage with locals through cooking classes, community events, or volunteer projects to enrich your travel experience beyond standard tourist sites.

Example: A two-week trip to Kyoto, Japan could involve one week in central Kyoto exploring temples and markets, and the second week in nearby rural towns like Uji or Arashiyama, experiencing tea ceremonies, forest walks, and artisan workshops.

Slow travel transforms holidays from a checklist into a story you live and feel, making memories last a lifetime.

2

Sustainability: Travelling Responsibly in 2026

In 2026, sustainable tourism has become a mainstream expectation. Travellers from the UK and US are increasingly making choices that benefit local communities and minimize environmental impact.

Why it’s crucial:

• Awareness of environmental footprint for flights, accommodations, and activities is growing.
• Supporting eco-conscious businesses protects destinations for future travellers and strengthens local economies.
• Responsible travel provides more authentic experiences, focusing on local culture over mass tourism.

How to travel sustainably:

• Choose eco-certified accommodations, such as boutique eco-lodges in Costa Rica or sustainable resorts in Scotland’s Highlands.
• Opt for public transport, cycling, or walking rather than taxis or rental cars for lower carbon emissions and more intimate exploration.
• Support local businesses: dine at family-run restaurants, buy handcrafted souvenirs, and take tours led by local guides.

Use flight carbon calculators to offset emissions, select airlines practicing sustainability, and carry reusable water bottles and biodegradable toiletries.

3

Tech & AI: Smart Travel Made Simple

Travel technology in 2026 is more advanced than ever. AI and smart apps help UK and US travellers save time, money, and stress, from trip planning to real-time language translation.

Key innovations include:

• AI itinerary planners: Enter your preferences — interests, budget, and travel dates — and AI generates personalized itineraries with hidden gems, local restaurants, and sightseeing options.
• Voice translation apps: Real-time translations make it easier to engage with locals or navigate signs.
• Dynamic pricing and smart booking tools: Track flight and hotel prices in real time and get alerts for the best booking times.

Example: A UK traveller planning a trip to Italy can use AI apps to find lesser-known wineries near Tuscany, discover authentic local trattorias, and book experiences off the standard tourist map.

Tips for tech-savvy travellers:

• Keep a digital itinerary accessible offline using apps like TripIt or Google Travel.
• Use AI tools to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, avoiding crowded tourist spots.
• Download local transport apps before arrival for buses, metros, and shared bikes.

Technology enhances travel experiences, making trips smoother, safer, and more rewarding.

4

Offbeat & Secondary Destinations: Discover the Unknown

In 2026, travellers are increasingly drawn to secondary cities and lesser-known destinations. These locations offer fewer crowds, more authenticity, and often better value for money — a huge appeal for UK and US tourists seeking unique experiences.

Why it’s trending:

• Popular tourist cities are overcrowded, making traditional hotspots less appealing.
• Offbeat destinations provide immersive cultural experiences, like local festivals, artisan workshops, and traditional cuisine.
• Travellers want Instagram-worthy memories that aren’t overrun by other tourists.

Examples of trending offbeat destinations:

• Europe: Ljubljana, Slovenia instead of Venice; Porto, Portugal instead of Lisbon.
• Asia: Hoi An, Vietnam instead of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
• US: Asheville, North Carolina or Sedona, Arizona for nature, art, and wellness, avoiding major cities like Los Angeles or Miami.

Practical advice:

• Pair offbeat locations with major hubs. For instance, fly into Rome, then spend a week exploring Umbria’s countryside.
• Look for local tours — they often uncover hidden gems, like secret viewpoints, family-run farms, and traditional markets.
• Research cultural calendars. Festivals and seasonal activities in offbeat destinations provide a richer experience than crowded tourist events.

Offbeat travel allows you to escape crowds, enjoy authentic experiences, and return home with stories few others can tell.

5

Wellness & Mental Reset Travel

Wellness tourism in 2026 goes beyond spa days or yoga retreats. Travellers are seeking mindful, restorative experiences that help them reconnect with themselves and the world. UK and US tourists prioritize holidays that combine mental health, physical wellness, and cultural immersion.

Trends include:

• Digital detox retreats: holidays without phones or social media, focusing on mindfulness, meditation, and reflection.
• Nature-based wellness: forest bathing in Japan, mountain retreats in Switzerland, or desert yoga sessions in Arizona.
• Integrated wellness experiences: combining wellness with cultural immersion — cooking classes, artisan workshops, and local farming experiences designed to restore mental balance.

Tips for wellness travellers:

• Research retreats offering structured programs, including meditation, healthy meals, and fitness sessions.
• Consider off-season travel for quieter, more peaceful retreats. UK travellers can enjoy Scotland’s Highlands in autumn, while US travellers can explore Sedona’s red rock meditative hikes in spring.
• Pack intentionally: bring comfortable clothing, reusable items, and anything supporting relaxation and reflection.

Wellness travel in 2026 is a holistic approach to recharging body and mind, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated.

6

Literary & Cultural Travel: Explore the World Through Stories

One of the most fascinating trends in 2026 is literary and cultural-themed travel. Travellers plan trips based on books, authors, art, music, or historical movements, creating a deeper emotional connection to destinations.

Why it matters:

• Cultural travel combines education, entertainment, and meaningful experiences.
• UK and US travellers, especially millennials and Gen Z, seek “travel with purpose,” immersing in local heritage.
• Literary travel satisfies curiosity and offers experiences beyond traditional tourist sites.

Popular literary and cultural travel ideas:

• UK: Yorkshire moors for Wuthering Heights, or follow Jane Austen’s trail in Bath.
• US: Visit Mark Twain’s hometown in Hannibal, Missouri, or Ernest Hemingway’s home in Key West, Florida.
• Europe: Paris cafes frequented by Hemingway and Sartre, or Prague with Franz Kafka-inspired tours.
• Asia: Kyoto, Japan, following locations tied to classic literature and poetry, or Mumbai for works by Rohinton Mistry.

Practical tips for UK & US travellers:

• Combine literary travel with local workshops or guided tours for immersive storytelling experiences.
• Time trips with literary festivals, such as the Hay Festival in Wales or Jaipur Literature Festival in India.
• Use apps and guides to highlight authors’ homes, libraries, and historical reading spots for a well-planned, culturally-rich itinerary.

This trend emphasizes connecting with human stories, history, and creativity, making travel more meaningful than simple sightseeing.

7

Mountains & Altitude Escapes: Fresh Air, Fresh Perspective

Another growing trend in 2026 is a renewed love for mountain escapes and high-altitude destinations. Travellers seek clean air, natural scenery, and solitude far from urban tourism, offering adventure and mental reset.

Why mountain travel is trending:

• Mountains provide year-round appeal — hiking and nature walks in summer, snow sports in winter.
• Altitude offers wellness benefits, from stress reduction to fresh air and exercise.
• Scenic landscapes and photogenic viewpoints attract travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Top destinations for 2026:

• Europe: Dolomites, Italy, Swiss Alps, Scottish Highlands
• North America: Rockies (Colorado, Canada), Sierra Nevada (California), Appalachian trails (Eastern US)
• Asia: Annapurna foothills, Nepal, Japanese Alps
• South America: Andes, Peru and Chile

Practical tips:

• Plan trips based on season and activity: summer for hiking, spring/fall for off-season exploration, winter for skiing.
• Book mountain lodges or eco-resorts early — many offer inclusive wellness programs and guided treks.
• Pack layers and weather-appropriate gear. Mountain weather can be unpredictable even in summer.

Extra tip: Pair mountain escapes with local cultural experiences — trek the Dolomites while sampling regional cuisine or hike the Rockies and visit local craft breweries. Mountains are sanctuaries for wellness, adventure, and reflection.

8

Experiential & Immersive Travel: Live Like a Local

In 2026, travellers want to participate and immerse themselves in local culture, rather than just observe it. Experiential travel is especially popular among UK and US tourists seeking Instagram-worthy, memory-rich experiences.

Key features of experiential travel:

• Hands-on cultural experiences: cooking classes, pottery, traditional craft workshops, or farm stays.
• Community-led tours: exploring local markets, rural villages, and neighborhood life.
• Volunteer tourism: short-term projects that benefit local communities while providing learning experiences.

Examples of immersive experiences:

• Learn sushi-making in Tokyo with a local chef.
• Join a weaving or pottery workshop in Morocco.
• Participate in conservation projects in Costa Rica or the Galápagos Islands.
• Explore Venice beyond the canals with a local gondolier teaching history and crafts.

Practical tips for UK & US travellers:

• Prioritize small-group experiences for more personal and authentic interactions.
• Research local cultural calendars to catch festivals, workshops, and seasonal activities.
• Ask locals for recommendations — residents often know experiences that guidebooks miss.

Experiential travel transforms a vacation from a series of photos into a lived story. Travellers return home not just with souvenirs but with skills, memories, and cultural connections.

9

Aviation & Connectivity: Travel Made Easier

The aviation and connectivity landscape in 2026 is improving, making long-distance travel simpler, faster, and more comfortable for UK and US travellers. Airlines and platforms are enhancing access and experience.

Key trends:

• More non-stop international flights between major hubs and emerging destinations.
• Flexible tickets and fare products allow last-minute changes without penalty.
• Enhanced airport and in-flight services, including better seating, Wi-Fi, entertainment, and meals.

Why this matters:

• UK travellers reach Asia, Africa, or South America faster, reducing travel fatigue.
• US travellers benefit from more direct flights to Europe, Asia, and Oceania, making multi-destination trips feasible.
• Improved connectivity encourages off-season travel, spreading tourism more evenly and reducing overcrowding.

Tips for UK & US travellers:

• Track flights using price alert apps and flexible dates for best deals.
• Consider secondary airports for cheaper, less crowded options (e.g., Milan Bergamo instead of Milan Malpensa).
• Combine flights with regional trains or buses to explore nearby towns and reduce environmental impact.

Better aviation and connectivity in 2026 make international travel accessible, comfortable, and customizable, giving travellers more freedom to design their perfect holiday.

10

Sports & Event Travel: Witness the Action

Sports and event travel is booming in 2026. From global sporting events to cultural festivals, UK and US travellers are planning trips around unique happenings that create lifelong memories.

Key features:

• Major sporting events: World Cups, marathons, rugby or football championships.
• Cultural festivals: music, art, dance, and film festivals.
• Hybrid experiences: combining sports with local sightseeing or wellness activities.

Examples:

• Attend the World Cup in a host city in Europe or Asia and explore local culture between matches.
• Take part in marathons or triathlons abroad, combining athletic goals with travel.
• Explore music or art festivals like Edinburgh Fringe Festival (UK) or Coachella (US), while visiting nearby towns and attractions.

Tips for UK & US travellers:

• Book event tickets and accommodation early, as these experiences often sell out.
• Pair the main event with local experiences to maximize your trip. For example, a football match in Spain could be paired with a food and wine tour in the same region.
• Check transport options in advance — large events can create congestion, so plan trains or shuttles accordingly.

Sports and event travel isn’t just about witnessing an event — it’s about immersing yourself in culture, energy, and excitement, making your trip unforgettable.

Conclusion

Travel Trends 2026: Thoughtful, Immersive, and Transformative

For UK and US travellers in 2026, these ten trends — slow travel, sustainability, tech-enhanced trips, offbeat destinations, wellness experiences, literary travel, mountain escapes, experiential travel, aviation connectivity, and sports/event trips — define a new way of exploring the world.

Trips are no longer just about sightseeing but about connection, purpose, and mindful exploration. By embracing these trends, travellers can plan journeys that are more rewarding, eco-conscious, and truly transformative.

Whether lingering in a charming village, hiking mountain trails, enjoying a digital detox in nature, or attending a festival, 2026 promises:

• Life-changing experiences beyond ordinary sightseeing.
• A balanced blend of adventure, wellness, and culture.
• Smarter, more sustainable travel with greater emotional connection.

From wandering historic literary trails in Europe, hiking the Rockies, or attending global festivals, 2026 is shaping up as a year where every trip is meaningful, memorable, and uniquely yours.

Embrace these trends and travel with intention, curiosity, and heart — making each journey a story worth telling.