These are the 7 travel trends for 2026 that you want to know about

What are the travel trends for 2026? According to the new Travel Trends 2026 report from Skyscanner Travel is becoming more personal, more conscious, and more aligned with what truly makes us happy. I recognize this very clearly when planning trips for Your Little Black Book. The travel stories are becoming increasingly niche, and the tips for loyal readers are even more detailed. In 2026, for example, you'll be able to use my own maps to get to your destination. 

These are the 7 travel trends of 2026

From hotels as destinations to reading on location and making real connections while traveling: these are the seven travel trends of 2026 which we also see more and more often at Your Little Black Book.

Shelf Discovery – the culinary trend

The foodie in us will take on a whole new meaning when traveling in 2026. Where we used to reserve tables at Michelin-starred restaurants, we'll now head to local supermarkets to discover snacks and ingredients. Something I can really relate to! I'd rather spend the whole day exploring a city or country while eating than sitting in a restaurant for hours every day. Better for your budget, too, by the way ;-).

During my travels, I always pop into a supermarket, from Asian supermarkets to French hypermarkets or even Japanese vending machines. I can spend hours there. That's where you see the real daily life of locals and often find the best food inspiration for home. I always take home some food as souvenirs! This is also reflected in Skyscanner's research: almost half of travelers explore local life through the supermarket.

Altitude Shift – seeking peace in the mountains

The mountains are back! And not just in winter. Skyscanner saw a more than 100% increase in hotel bookings with "mountain views." Which I completely understand, because what's better than waking up with a view of the peaks? We're increasingly seeking out the heights for peace, quiet, and nature, even outside of ski season. Even during ski season, I find that a winter sports holiday is more than just skiing for me these days. Having a spa and other relaxation activities is just as important to me as beautiful slopes these days.

At Your Little Black Book, I see this reflected in the increased interest in destinations like the Dolomites, the Swiss Alps, and Austria as year-round destinations. Walking, breathing, and being offline for a while: it perfectly aligns with the need for rest and slowing down.

Bookbound – the travel literature trend

A striking travel trend for 2026 is "Bookbound": travel inspired by literature or to write your own novel. More and more travelers are planning a trip based on a book, an author, or a fictional world. Reading while traveling or on a patio also fits perfectly into this trend – something we've seen in films for a while now, but is now expanding into other forms.

I notice it myself too: during city breaks, I often seek out the most beautiful bookstores or unique libraries, like in Mexico City. And just look around you… books are the new status symbol – everywhere you see people reading in cafes and on terraces.

Catching Connections – solo travel with a social touch

Solo travel continues to grow, but it's taking on new meaning. According to Skyscanner, more than a third of travelers deliberately travel alone to meet new people. From dating to making friends on the road, connecting while traveling is becoming increasingly important.

I totally agree. I enjoy traveling alone myself—you see what's happening around you differently and connect more easily with locals or other travelers. I always enjoy connecting with local chefs; they often have the best restaurant recommendations, too ;-)

Glowmads – travel with your self-care routine

Beauty and travel will increasingly converge in 2026. Travelers will plan their trips around self-care moments and beauty treatments. From sheet masks on the plane to cosmetic shops in Seoul, beauty and travel are becoming increasingly intertwined. Skyscanner even sees a growing number of people choosing destinations with a wellness or skincare focus.

Personally, for me, it's less about skincare and more about wellness. City breaks with a wellness twist are more popular than ever, and nature retreats where self-care is paramount are also highly sought after. Traveling is no longer just about what you see, but also about how you feel along the way.

Family Miles – The Rise of Multigenerational Travel

My son is now seven, but I can confirm: traveling together is the most fun. Families will be traveling together more often in 2026 – with parents, children, and grandparents. Skyscanner calls this "Family Miles": traveling to make memories instead of buying things. Not just to share costs, but especially to spend time together.

I see it around me too. More and more families are choosing a vacation home or a road trip with grandparents. It's about being together, not about luxury. Small moments of happiness – from eating ice cream to cooking together and making memories. And yes, the fact that there's a babysitter right away so you can still eat out together… is definitely a big plus!

Destination Check-in – hotels as main destination

Hotels are increasingly becoming the reason to travel—a destination in itself. Nearly half of travelers choose their destination based on where they want to stay. From design hotels in the desert to sustainable boutique hotels nestled in nature: once you check in, you won't want to leave.

I recognize that so well. Every trip involves a hotel I book specifically to maximize my time there. These are often more expensive places, so you want to make the most of it, right? It fits perfectly with the trend of traveling more consciously and truly enjoying where you are.

The future of travel

According to Skyscanner research, 2026 will be the year travel becomes smarter, more personalized, and more thoughtful. We'll plan more consciously, seek authenticity, and truly want to spend our time and money wisely. Not necessarily more, but better and more personalized!

Something else you've probably recognized yourself: technology is playing an increasingly important role in planning your trips. What does the future hold? AI and smart search tools will soon help you book too. How great would it be if, for example, I, as your personal travel agent, could arrange everything for you directly on Your Little Black Book? Straight from inspiration to a concrete plan! 

I always find it incredibly inspiring to delve into the latest travel trends. What will you be reading more about on Your Little Black Book in 2026? Even more personalized tips, so you can truly plan the trip that's perfect for you! 

With love, Anne