Travel trends for 2026
Where are UK travellers booking this year ?
Many UK travellers are moving back towards using a personal travel counsellor rather than relying solely on online bookings and there are so many reasons why.
UK travellers in 2026 are choosing holidays that feel meaningful, good value and well protected, rather than simply the cheapest deals. Demand is rising for shoulder‑season escapes, slower and more local experiences, wellness breaks, live‑event trips and long‑haul bucket‑list adventures that maximise memories and reassurance.
A key shift is towards September and other shoulder‑season months, when prices are softer, destinations are less crowded and the weather still suits beach holidays and city breaks. Couples, empty‑nesters and families are using these windows for luxury yet value‑savvy escapes. At the same time, many UK travellers want to “live like a local” with boutique stays, food tours, rail journeys and walking holidays that immerse them in real neighbourhoods and cultures.
Wellness and nature‑first breaks are another major trend. Spa hotels, yoga retreats, digital detox trips and beautifully designed coastal or countryside stays allow people to reset from busy lives and protect their mental health. Live events and “set‑jetting” also feature strongly: holidays built around concerts, sporting events, festivals and film or TV locations deliver brag‑worthy, social‑media‑friendly experiences. Long‑haul value remains important, with travellers accepting higher flight costs to destinations like Japan, Canada, Australia and New Zealand where in‑destination value, scenery and culture are exceptional.
What are five highly rated holidays for 2026:
1) Japan offers a once‑in‑a‑lifetime mix of high‑energy cities, serene temples, towns and world‑class cuisine, ideal for honeymoons and anniversaries.
2) Canada combines iconic rail journeys, national parks and friendly cities, perfect for multigenerational trips and big family adventures.
3) Australia and New Zealand suit extended itineraries mixing cities, wine regions, beaches and self‑drive routes, making them classic bucket‑list choices.
4) Mediterranean hotspots such as Greece, Portugal and Spain shine in spring and autumn with luxury villas, adults‑only hotels and foodie city breaks at great value.
5) Dubai and the wider UAE deliver guaranteed winter sun, glamorous hotels, theme parks and events, working well for short luxury escapes and milestone celebrations.
Alongside where people go is the question of how they book. Many UK travellers are moving back towards using a personal travel counsellor rather than relying solely on online DIY bookings. One major driver is financial protection: ATOL‑protected packages safeguard money and cover repatriation if a supplier fails, which is particularly reassuring for expensive, complex or long‑haul itineraries. A second factor is service: instead of anonymous call centres, clients prefer independent travel counsellors like me who understand their tastes and handle everything from flights and hotels to airport parking, lounges and curated experiences.
Time and stress are equally important. Busy professionals and families are overwhelmed by online choice and wary after poor experiences trying to resolve issues directly with airlines or big booking platforms. A travel counsellor filters the noise, presents a handful of spot‑on options and manages changes and disruptions on the client’s behalf. Finally, tailor‑made itineraries are a key advantage: travel counsellors design trips around specific dreams – from girls’ weekends and city breaks to safaris, cruises and multi‑stop adventures – adding trusted local partners and thoughtful touches that turn a good holiday into a memory that lasts for years.
Contact me to book your 2026 getaway.