2026 Trends. Amadeus predictions.

Amadeus, in partnership with forecasting agency Globetrender, predicts 2026 will be a year of “transformative travel.” The trends highlight a move toward hyper-personalization, deeper integration of AI, and new cultural influences.

The 6 Key Trends for 2026

• The Pawprint Economy (Pet-First Travel): Pets are becoming accepted as equal passengers. With the global pet industry expected to hit $500 billion by 2030, travel providers are upgrading their services. Expect more in-cabin flights for larger pets, loyalty programs for dogs, and “upmarket” experiences that prioritize animal comfort and dignity.
• Travel Mixology (Blended Planning): Travelers are becoming “mixologists” of information, blending AI efficiency with human authenticity. A typical planner might use a Large Language Model (LLM) for a broad itinerary, verify the “vibe” on TikTok or Reddit, and then book via traditional agents or apps. The focus is on curating the perfect trip using a custom recipe of digital and human tools.
• Point-to-Point Precision (Direct Routes): New long-haul narrow-body aircraft (like the Airbus A321XLR) are “shrinking” the world. These efficient jets allow airlines to bypass major hubs and fly directly to secondary cities. This opens up new, previously hard-to-reach destinations and makes long-distance travel faster and more direct.
• Pop Culting (Fandom Tourism): Movies, TV shows, and viral culture are becoming primary drivers for destination choices. From Bridgerton tours in Bath to K-Pop experiences in Seoul, travelers are seeking real-world connections to their favorite entertainment IPs. Destinations are now actively building tourism strategies around these fandoms.
• Pick ‘n’ Stays (A La Carte Hospitality): Hotel bookings are moving beyond standard room categories (e.g., “Deluxe” or “Standard”). Guests will soon be able to select specific attributes—such as a room with a Pilates machine, specific soundproofing, or proximity to the elevator. This shift turns generic booking into a hyper-personalized “build-your-own” stay.
• Innovation Tourism (Visiting the Future): Travelers are flocking to cities like Shenzhen or London specifically to experience cutting-edge technology. The attraction is no longer just history, but a glimpse of tomorrow: riding in driverless taxis, seeing drone deliveries, or testing real-time translation wearables.

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