Top Travel Trends for 2026 Revealed

Tripadvisor data shows surge in pet-friendly trips, extreme adventures, and fitness-focused vacations

Jan. 28, 2026 at 7:23pm

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According to Tripadvisor's annual trendcast report, some of the top travel trends for 2026 include a significant increase in pet-friendly bookings (up 260% year-over-year), a growth in extreme adventure experiences (up 79%), and the rise of "sweat jetting" where travelers book trips around fitness events like marathons. The data also shows a 29% increase in bookings for nightlife experiences like DJ sets on the water, as well as a 64% surge in popularity for listening bars and vinyl-focused venues.

Why it matters

These travel trends reflect a shift in how people are approaching vacations, with experiences increasingly taking priority over just destinations. Travelers are looking for trips that allow them to connect with local culture, challenge themselves physically, and accommodate the whole group - including their four-legged friends.

The details

Tripadvisor partnered with consumer trend forecaster Stylus to analyze changes in booking data, hotel demand, and review mentions on its platform. The data shows a 260% year-over-year increase in pet-friendly bookings, as well as a 79% jump in extreme adventure experiences like heli-hiking, glacier tours, and lava field excursions. Fitness-focused "sweat jetting" trips around events like the Chicago, Boston, and Berlin marathons also saw major booking surges of over 200%.

  • Tripadvisor released its annual trendcast report in January 2026.

The players

Tripadvisor

A leading online travel platform that provides reviews, ratings, and booking services for hotels, restaurants, attractions, and other travel experiences.

Stylus

A consumer trend forecasting company that partnered with Tripadvisor to analyze travel data and identify emerging trends.

Laurel Greatrix

Chief communications officer at Tripadvisor, who commented on the company's findings about shifting travel priorities.

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What they’re saying

“This year's Trendcast continues to reflect a shift in how people are approaching travel, with experiences increasingly leading travel decisions.”

— Laurel Greatrix, Chief communications officer (Tripadvisor)

What’s next

As these travel trends continue to evolve, travel providers and destinations will likely need to adapt their offerings to cater to the growing demand for pet-friendly accommodations, extreme adventure activities, and fitness-focused experiences.

The takeaway

The data from Tripadvisor's 2026 trendcast report highlights how travelers are prioritizing unique, immersive experiences that allow them to connect with local culture, challenge themselves physically, and include their furry companions. This shift in travel priorities is reshaping the industry and creating new opportunities for innovation.