From Readaways to Farm Stays: The Trends Shaping Travel in 2026
Every new year gives rise to a fresh crop of intriguing travel styles, trending destinations, and unique experiences, and 2026 will be no different.
The coming 12 months of globetrotting is likely to feature everything from readaways and farm stays to multi-spoke itineraries and sustainability as a core value proposition. These are merely a few of the buzziest travel trends poised to shape 2026. Additional developments on the horizon include tour operators serving as stewards (rather than just sellers) and travelers going deeper, rather than farther.
What will be different this year, and importantly so, is that an increasing number of the travel trends set to dominate the industry include a common thread: The desire among globetrotters to be more thoughtful. And to have more meaningful, culturally immersive travel experiences.
That reality, combined with what appears to be a growing focus on lingering longer in one place (also known as slow travel), is particularly exciting because both approaches to travel provide greater support for the well-being of destinations, residents, and the planet, which has never been more important.
Here's a closer look at some of the most noteworthy travel developments on tap for the coming 12 months.
2026: Meaningful, Immersive, Hands-On Experiences
Travel industry leaders far and wide seem to agree that 2026 will be about far more than globetrotters simply ticking off unseen locations on their checklist. More than a few travelers have set their sights on something more meaningful.
"Travelers are seeking immersive, hands-on experiences over passive sightseeing," says Rob DelliBovi, founder of RDB Hospitality Group.
Those deeper experiences could range from truffle hunting in Tuscany to onsen rituals in Japan. But they might also go a step further and seek out voluntourism opportunities and impact travel, says DelliBovi.
"Guests are drawn to programs that allow them to contribute, whether planting coral in the Maldives…or supporting wildlife rehabilitation in South Africa," continues DelliBovi.
No matter which approach travelers take to engaging more actively with a destination, the key is that they're seeking "meaning over mileage" to return home changed, not just relaxed.
"In 2026, travelers are going deeper, not farther," says DelliBovi. "The post-pandemic 'bucket list' mentality has evolved into a desire for purposeful, experience-driven travel, the kind that connects guests to place, culture, and community."
The results of the annual member survey conducted by the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) support this perspective. USTOA members identified three key trends in particular that are expected to shape travel in 2026, including a "continued shift toward meaningful travel," with travelers seeking "authentic, culturally immersive experiences" that prioritize local culture and personal connection over sightseeing checklists.
The Japanese onsen ritual is a multi-step, cultural practice of cleansing and relaxing in natural hot springs, involving thorough washing before entering the communal, naked baths, followed by slow soaking to enjoy mineral waters, and concluding with rehydration and rest in serene settings, emphasizing purification, harmony with nature, and spiritual renewal.
Sustainability As the Core Value Proposition
Another hopeful development for the new year: Sustainability will no longer be a “nice-to-have" for at least some travelers. Instead, it may well be a deciding factor in destination choice, suggests Hedder Quispe Puente de la Vega, founder of the luxury tour company Machu Travel Peru.
"Travelers are increasingly seeking reassurance that their visit actively contributes to conservation and local wellbeing," explains de la Vega. “We view sustainability as our greatest added value. Travelers want to know their visit helps preserve heritage and benefits local communities.”
"This mirrors a global movement where destinations are reframing sustainability not as sacrifice, but as a marker of quality, trust, and long-term viability,' adds de la Vega.
Tour Operators As Stewards, Not Sellers
The desire among travelers to participate in visits that actively give back dovetails with another development that de la Vega believes will become more commonplace over the coming months. He predicts that tour operators will take a far more active role in protecting the places they bring visitors.
"By 2026, tour operators are increasingly expected to act as guardians of destination integrity, not just trip planners. This includes local employment, community partnerships, and environmental accountability," says de la Vega
This will include efforts such as working closely with local communities and ensuring that tourism revenue stays within the destinations visited. In the case of Machu Travel Peru, it also includes a focus on offering "meaningful, sustainable journeys that respect Peru’s heritage, empower its people, and inspire travelers to care for the planet as they explore it,' adds de la Vega.
Cape Perpetua Collaborative Tide Pool Tours on the Oregon Coast led by trained guides and volunteers. Participants can learn all about the intertidal ecosystem, Oregon's marine reserves, beach safety, and stewardship. Photo by Mel Barbour.
Multi-Spoke Itineraries: One Size Fits None
Multi-generational family vacations have been a growing trend for several years now, at least since the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. But in 2026, that trend may become even more customized, according to tour operator Audley Travel, which worked with a travel trends forecasting agency to develop a report on luxury travel trends we can expect this year.
In particular, 57 percent of Audley’s country specialists say their clients are seeking curated "multi-spoke itineraries" as a solution to address differing needs and desires on multi-gen family vacations while protecting the ultimate reason for a family vacation – to share time.
"This doesn’t mean the family follows multiple different itineraries and only meets for meals," says Heather Heverling, president of Audley Travel. "Instead, the itinerary is designed to satisfy vastly different energy levels, learning styles, and personal passions – from contemplative cultural pursuits to adrenaline-fueled adventures – all within a single, seamless journey that brings the group together for shared memories."
This could mean exploring the temple complex of Angkor in Cambodia’s Siem Reap by mountain bike for the younger generation, while grandparents enjoy the same sites via tuk-tuk, all guided by the same expert who tailors the experience to each pace and interest.
"This isn’t one person’s itinerary with others tagging along - it’s a shared journey that’s truly for everyone," says Heverling.
Audley Travel isn't the only company witnessing this development in multi-gen vacation planning. It's also the latest approach to customizing multi-gen safaris in Africa, says Sandy Salle, founder and president of luxury safari tour operator Hills of Africa.
Salle says she's seen an extreme uptick in the number of three-generational families wanting to travel to Africa and go on safari. But they want to do so on their terms.
"It seems that families want a place to connect away from the rest of the world in nature, but they still want everyone to be able to do different activities," says Salle. "So, bonding time with the flexibility for a large group with all different interests."
'Women 2 Women' Travel
Solo female travelers (and also women-only tours) have become a growing powerhouse in the travel industry. Numerous reports have underscored this reality. For instance, a 2024 report from Skift indicated that nearly 40 percent of women travelers were planning a solo trip in 2025. Meanwhile, a 2025 report from JourneyWoman titled "Invisible No More: The Ageless Adventuress" revealed that women are fueling a billion-dollar boom in solo travel.
As for 2026, Audley specialists see this demand deepening and some interesting nuances emerging. To that end, nearly a quarter of Audley’s country specialists (24 percent) are reporting a rise in solo female travelers. And increasingly, those solo travelers are specifically requesting female guides.
"They understand that female perspectives often reveal cultural layers and local stories that otherwise remain unseen," says Heverling. "Also, incredibly important to many solo female travelers, working with female guides and business owners means their visit is helping local women to earn their own money."
Tea Plucking experience at Bluefield Tea in Sri Lanka.
Farm Stays
Agrotourism, or farm stays, is a form of slow travel that allows tourists to stay in accommodations on farms and, while there, take an active role in the daily life and workings of the farm.
This, too, is another style of travel that's been gaining attention in recent years, and in 2026, that momentum will continue full steam ahead. In fact, a market analysis published by Grand View Research projects that, by 2030, the agrotourism movement (which was worth about $8.10 billion in 2024) will reach $15.78 billion.
Expedia's Unpack 2026 report on travel trends also foresees farm stays gaining increased attention among globetrotters. "Travelers plan to trade city lights for starlit skies as farm stays surge in popularity," says the report.
In particular, 84 percent of travelers are interested in staying on or near a farm as the slow travel movement gains momentum. And it seems Gen Z is particularly interested in this style of travel: There's been a 300 percent year-over-year spike in guest reviews mentioning farms on the VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) platform.
The activities travelers enjoy most when taking part in a farm stay include: nature walks or hiking (73%), the chance to interact with farm animals (62%), and harvesting produce or picking fresh fruit (42%).
Readaways
Calling all avid book club members. It seems 2026 may also be the year that book clubs are preparing to go on the road as part of a new travel trend Expedia has dubbed "Readaways." What does that term mean exactly?
According to Expedia, 91 percent of travelers say they’re interested in taking a trip "centered around reading, relaxation, and quality time with loved ones."
Moreover, mentions of reading-related terms in Vrbo guest reviews have surged a whopping 285 percent year-over-year. Add that to the fact that searches for “book retreats” and “book club retreat ideas” are up 100 percent and 275 percent, respectively, on Pinterest, and it seems 2026 may be the year of travel driven by reading lovers.
"Book enthusiast groups are heading to serene destinations such as coastal homes, chalets, and countryside retreats to unplug, unwind, and connect over stories," says the Expedia report.
Destinations To Watch in 2026
Finally, each new year brings a shuffle in the destinations attracting the attention of intrepid travelers.
While Paris, Rome, Venice, and London will always be popular, in an era when overtourism and sustainability are pressing issues, the good news is that other, less-visited locations are finding their way onto travelers' agendas.
For 2026, that will likely include a growing focus on the central Asian country of Uzbekistan, according to the travel insurance company Total Travel Protection.
"Uzbekistan hasn’t traditionally been a popular destination for travelers, but due to its rich history, changing policies, and affordability, we can expect to see more tourists visit," says Total Travel Protection's travel expert, Sarah Findlay.
"The country has approved a Tourism Development Program from next year, aimed at expanding accommodation infrastructure and attracting hospitality investment," adds Findlay.
"With its unique culture and history, you can expect to immerse yourself in a deeply authentic travel experience, including the Silk Road history, UNESCO‑listed heritage sites, and the photogenic Registan Square."
The alluring and deeply beautiful North African nation of Morocco is another destination to watch in 2026.
Morocco's government is working to attract even more tourists next year with improved air connectivity, lodging, and entertainment facilities, says Findlay. "From the bustle of Marrakesh to the beaches in Tangier, tourists can get affordable flights to the North African country, making it a great budget destination," she says.
Left to Right, Top to Bottom: Uzbekistan, Morocco, Italy, France
Data from USTOA's tour operator members, meanwhile, indicates that Italy is the top destination travelers are booking for 2026. In fact, Europe as a whole remains a global leader, with France named the second most popular destination, and Portugal and Greece rounding out the fourth and fifth spots. (Japan came in number three.)
USTOA tour operator members also identified Portugal as the leading off-the-beaten-path destination gaining traction for 2026, with Morocco, Croatia, and Colombia following close behind.
But no matter where travelers venture in the year ahead, whether it's central Asia, north Africa, Europe, or a location that didn't make any of these lists, the good news is many globetrotters plan to stay far longer - and that's good news for the planet and the places being visited.
"Clients want to stay longer in destinations to really understand and get a feel for them," says Salle. "Gone are the days of only spending two nights…My clients more often than not are requesting four to five nights at a single place rather than spending less time at more destinations…What's really happening is they're valuing quality of time spent at different destinations over quantity of places visited."
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Mia Taylor is an award-winning freelance travel writer and editor who has worked on staff for Parents, Real Simple, and Better Homes & Gardens. She also worked on a features writing team for BBC Travel and currently serves as a Senior Editor for the travel trade publication TravelPulse. Over the course of her career, Mia has received nine travel writing awards from the North American Travel Journalists Association. She was also a member of a team of KPBS/NPR reporters who received the Walter Cronkite Award for Excellence in Journalism. Her work has also appeared in Travel Age West, Westways, Travel + Leisure, and other publications.
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