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From AI planning to hidden gems, here’s what travel looks like in 2026

New data shows how technology and global events will shape travel in 2026

By Amanda Teague Dec 28, 2025 4:00 AM

man walking on street with a rolling suitcase — Oleksandr Baiev / Unsplash

Travel is heading into a smarter, more flexible era. According to new insights from CheapOair, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by tech-driven planning, wider global connectivity, and a growing appetite for destinations that feel both exciting and unexpected.

“Next year, the world is opening wider than ever,” said Thomas Spagnola, senior vice president of partner relationships at CheapOair. Airlines are expanding routes, travelers are booking with more confidence, and technology is making trip planning faster and more personalized than ever.

How travelers will plan, book, and explore in 2026

One of the biggest shifts is how trips come together. Airline capacity is expected to grow about 5% globally in 2026, according to the International Air Transport Association, with the strongest gains in Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Latin America. That growth is opening doors to more international travel and easier connections.

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At the same time, AI is stepping into a starring role. Data from Accenture suggests AI-powered tools will influence more than half of all travel bookings, helping travelers research destinations, build itineraries, and surface hidden gems they might not have found on their own.

Booking habits are evolving too. Travelers are planning ahead instead of waiting until the last minute. According to Google Flights, domestic flights are often booked around six weeks out, while international trips are planned seven weeks or more in advance. Many travelers are also choosing secondary airports to save money and skip congestion, such as flying into London Gatwick instead of Heathrow.

Customization is another major theme. Airlines are expanding options for seat selection, baggage, Wi-Fi, lounges, and even in-cabin pet travel, letting travelers tailor flights to their needs and budgets.

As for where people are going, CheapOair points to rising interest in places like Sardinia, Okinawa, Phu Quoc, and Hobart, alongside US cities hosting major events and increased air service. Taken together, the trends suggest 2026 travel will be less about checking boxes and more about creating trips that feel personal, efficient, and genuinely memorable.

Amanda, an accomplished freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio, is a dedicated explorer of both the world and the written word… Read Full Bio

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