KAYAK Predicts Travel Trends for 2026: Key Insights from the "What the Future" Report
KAYAK, a premier travel search engine and subsidiary of Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG), recently unveiled its 2026 'What the Future' (WTF) Report. This comprehensive analysis highlights emerging travel destinations and behaviors shaped by community insights from TikTok. The report emphasizes the importance of discovering lesser-known locations as travelers seek budget-friendly options, less crowded experiences, and increased flexibility in their plans.
Key Findings from the 2026 WTF Report
The 2026 edition of the report includes findings based on a survey of 14,000 Gen Z and Millennial travelers, as well as cultural research and interviews with KAYAK executives. Here are some key travel trends identified:
- AI’s Role in Travel Planning: 41% of travelers surveyed would trust recommendations made by AI over those from friends and social media.
- Shift to Emerging Destinations: 69% of Gen Z and 66% of Millennials prefer exploring destinations not popularized on social media.
- Flexible Payment Options: 35% of Gen Z and 31% of Millennials indicated that credit or installment plans will influence their travel plans for 2026.
Insights on Popular Travel Destinations
KAYAK's report features a list of the top 10 emerging travel destinations, showcasing places that are likely to gain attention in 2026:
| Rank | Destination | Country |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cork | Ireland |
| 2 | Chongqing | China |
| 3 | Harbin | China |
| 4 | Zakynthos | Greece |
| 5 | Shenzhen | China |
| 6 | Almaty | Kazakhstan |
| 7 | Hilo (Big Island) | United States |
| 8 | Noumea | New Caledonia |
| 9 | La Romana | Dominican Republic |
| 10 | Luxembourg | Luxembourg |
Traveling for Experiences
The report also highlights the rising trend of trips centered around significant events, with 97% of Gen Z and Millennial respondents expressing intent to travel for major occasions in 2026. This reflects a shift in travel motivations, emphasizing experiences over mere destination visits.
Implications of Social Media and Travel
Social media platforms like TikTok influence travel choices significantly, with a notable increase in content related to #wellnesstravel—up by 150%—demonstrating a growing focus on health and well-being among next-gen travelers. Additionally, interest in short trips, termed "nanocations," is on the rise as 63% of surveyed travelers plan to take multiple shorter getaways instead of extended vacations.
Conclusion
KAYAK's 2026 WTF Report underscores a transformation in travel preferences among young adults, with an emphasis on personalization, well-being, and unique experiences. As part of BKNG, KAYAK aims to support travelers in navigating these new trends effectively. For more detailed insights and further trends, you can access KAYAK's complete report.