1. Plot Twist Trip
Forget your usual holiday spots. In 2027, travellers are seeking the unexpected. A significant 77% want to book a trip that is completely out of character for them. Part of the motivation is the element of surprise, with many wanting to shock their friends
and family with an unpredictable choice. It’s about breaking routines and creating a story that no one, not even yourself, saw coming.
2. Social Currency
Your travel budget is no longer just about where you go; it's about who you go with. Finances are becoming a critical filter for travel companions. Research shows that 50% of travellers have reconsidered who to travel with due to different spending habits, and 51% have experienced tension over money on a trip. For many parents, this also means a desire to travel without their children to allow for a different kind of spending.
3. Vibe Check(In)
How do you want to feel? This question is becoming more important than 'Where do you want to go?'. A staggering 81% of travellers would pick a destination based on the mood they want to achieve. The future of travel search may even involve filtering by emotional state, with 76% open to using a tool that recommends destinations based on their mood.
4. The All-Exclusive
The one-size-fits-all holiday package is losing its appeal. As lifestyles and dietary habits change, travellers are looking for more control. In 2027, 66% want a package that allows them to remove services they won’t use. This 'all-exclusive' approach means paying only for what you value, whether that's specific meal plans or skipping the open bar.
5. Trip to the Beyond
Get ready for a rise in paranormal tourism. A surprising 65% of travellers are interested in experiences that explore the supernatural, from haunted histories to mysterious encounters. This trend, dubbed 'Trip to the Beyond', sees people swapping beach relaxation for something more unsettling, seeking out gothic architecture, and exploring questions about what lies beyond.
6. PTO: Powered by AI
Taking a proper break from work is crucial, but what if AI could help? The predictions suggest a future where artificial intelligence helps manage work tasks while you're on holiday. A majority of travellers would be interested in having an AI agent handle their work while away, potentially even using it to justify an extra day off. It’s about using technology to truly disconnect.
7. Hotel in the Sky
The journey is becoming as important as the destination, especially when it comes to long-haul flights. An overwhelming 89% of people would take a long-haul trip if they were guaranteed to arrive feeling rested. This has created a demand for better in-flight wellness, from sleep-supporting menus and jet lag-reducing lighting to designated quiet zones.
8. Sweat Synergy
Solo travel is evolving, with fitness becoming a powerful tool for connection. For solo travellers, a shared physical challenge can lead to lasting friendships. This trend, 'Sweat Synergy', sees people signing up for trips centred around sporting events like marathons or cycling races, not just for the activity itself, but for the community and connections built along the way.
9. Trailside Therapy
Travel is also becoming a space for repairing relationships. Nearly half of all travellers (47%) would consider a trip specifically to resolve a conflict with someone close to them. Activities like hiking are seen as particularly effective for facilitating honest conversations away from the pressures of daily life. It’s about using a new environment to find new perspectives on a relationship.
