Skyscanner Reveals Seven Trends That Will Shape Global Travel in 2026
The global travel platform Skyscanner released its annual Travel Trends 2026 report, revealing seven emerging behaviors that will define how people travel next year. Based on booking data, consumer research, and insights from brands such as Reddit, Malin + Goetz, AllTrails and Penguin Books, the findings highlight a shift toward more intentional, personalized and emotionally driven travel experiences.
According to Skyscanner, travelers are designing itineraries around identity and personal interests rather than simply choosing a destination. “Travel is about to get more personal than ever,” said Skyscanner CEO Bryan Batista. “Whether it’s a trip built around a must-stay destination hotel, a reading retreat, or bringing the entire family along, travel in 2026 will be more curated, grounded and unique.” The report notes that with the cost of living still impacting consumer decisions, travelers are seeking experiences that feel “worth it” on an emotional level.
The first trend, named Glowmads, highlights the growing influence of beauty and wellness on trip planning. Skyscanner’s data shows that travelers are incorporating skincare routines and beauty rituals into their itineraries, with a growing appetite for destinations associated with local beauty culture. Meanwhile, the trend Shelf Discovery points to a change in culinary tourism: instead of booking restaurants, travelers are heading to local supermarkets and convenience stores to explore everyday flavors and connect with the local lifestyle in an affordable and authentic way.
The third trend, Altitude Shift, shows that mountain escapes are becoming a year-round alternative to beach vacations. Skyscanner reports increased demand for hotels with “mountain view” filters and notes that destinations such as the Dolomites, Annapurna and the Canadian Rockies are gaining popularity for their sense of serenity and disconnection. A fourth trend, Bookbound, reveals that literature is increasingly inspiring travel choices, whether through reading retreats, visits to iconic bookstores or itineraries based on novels and fictional characters.
Connection is also influencing travel choices. The trend named Catching Flights and Feelings shows that more travelers are willing to cross borders to meet people, whether for friendship or romance. Skyscanner has observed a rise in solo-traveler hotel bookings and notes that social media and dating apps are helping spark travel experiences focused on meeting others in person. In addition, multi-generational travel continues to expand under the trend Family Miles, as families seek to spend meaningful time together and share costs amid economic pressures.
One of the most striking insights of the report is the rise of the Destination Check-in trend: travelers are choosing destinations based on the accommodation itself. Hotels with standout architecture, immersive design and social-shareable features are becoming the main attraction, especially for younger demographics who prioritize visual impact when booking a trip.
According to Skyscanner, these behaviors reflect a broader transformation of the sector. The company forecasts that in 2026, technology — particularly artificial intelligence — will shift from a supporting tool to an integrated system capable of planning full trips and managing traveler needs in real time. With 84% of travelers planning to go abroad as much or more than in 2025, Skyscanner concludes that the future of travel is curated, intentional and deeply personal.
