The company’s survey findings point to sustained intent to travel in 2026.
According to HomeToGo, 76% of U.S. travelers plan to take a vacation next year,
while 43% have already booked at least one trip. The data also indicates a
willingness to upgrade: 26% are actively booking longer and more extravagant
breaks, and 57% plan to spend more on vacations compared with 2025. At the same
time, affordability remains central, with price cited as the top priority for
52% when choosing a destination. Seasonality is also shifting, as 68% say they
are open to traveling during less busy periods to reduce costs and avoid
overcrowding, and 27% report actively seeking “hidden gems.”
HomeToGo states that each of its 30 featured destinations has recorded year-on-year search growth of more than 100% for stays in 2026 via the platform, yet none rank among the 1,000 most-searched destinations. In pricing terms, the company says all 30 locations have a median nightly accommodation price under $100 per person for 2026—positioning the list around early booking, perceived value, and under-the-radar discovery.
Eleanor Moody, HomeToGo Spokesperson and Travel Expert, said: “2026 seems set to be a mammoth year for travel. Year-over-year, HomeToGo.com has recorded a +53% increase in overall searches for vacation accommodation worldwide, with a notable average length of stay of just over two weeks,” adding: “Whether staying close to home or setting off on long-haul adventures, HomeToGo’s forecasted 2026 rising star destinations show how vacationers can find affordable, under-the-radar, and on-trend spots of all kinds, from wild and rugged landscapes to laid-back beach towns, and from small scenic cities to creative urban hubs.”
Five themes
HomeToGo expects to shape travel in 2026
For travel sellers, destination marketers, and accommodation partners, the
forecast frames 2026 demand around five consumer-facing narratives, each backed
by examples drawn from the report.
1.
The first
theme, “Wild, Rugged, Windswept,” focuses on remote landscapes
with a strong wilderness pull. HomeToGo links this to demand for national parks
and rural settings, reporting that 40% of surveyed travelers want to visit
national parks and wilderness areas in 2026, rising to 44% among Gen Z, while
28% are drawn to rural towns and villages. Pop culture is also cited as a
demand driver, with 34% pointing to films and 18% to books as sources of travel
inspiration. As an example, HomeToGo notes that searches for North Yorkshire in
the United Kingdom increased by +311% year-on-year, tying interest to the
setting and filming location associated with Wuthering Heights, alongside
access to the Yorkshire Dales and North York Moors national parks.
2.
The second
theme, “Chocolate Box Charm,” points to compact,
picturesque towns and small cities with culinary appeal – particularly in
Europe, where HomeToGo says 39% of U.S. travelers are considering vacationing
in 2026. Examples mentioned include Durbuy in Belgium and Orvieto in Italy’s
Umbria, with food and drink positioned as a key motivator. The company reports
that 53% of U.S. travelers plan to travel for new food and drink experiences in
2026, referencing local specialties and market culture in destinations such as
Annecy and Trogir.
3.
Third, “Neo-Western Revival” describes rising interest in
desert landscapes and smaller frontier-style towns, influenced by a broader
cultural moment and social platforms. HomeToGo links this trend to travel
inspiration sourced from Instagram (31%) and TikTok (29%), with higher reliance
among millennials and Gen Z. The report suggests travelers are increasingly
seeking smaller towns across the U.S. Southwest and Mountain West, rather than
large resort formats.
4.
Fourth, “The Seaside Slowdown,” positions long-haul
and restorative coastal breaks as a core 2026 leisure segment. HomeToGo reports
that 54% of travelers plan to book beach breaks, and that mental well-being
plays a role in destination selection, with 23% citing mental rest and recovery
as the most important factor when choosing a 2026 destination. The company also
points to younger travelers’ interest in Asia and Africa for 2026, aligning
part of the beach list with those regions.
5.
Finally, “The Alternative Urban Circuit” highlights “creative second cities” and event-led demand.
HomeToGo reports that 45% of U.S. travelers plan to visit cities in 2026, while
36% say activities and experiences will be the deciding factor in destination
choice. Live events feature strongly in the stated intent data, with 38%
planning to travel for gigs and concerts, 33% for arts and culture events, and
31% for sports games and competitions. Examples referenced include Toulouse,
Liverpool, Medellín, and- within the U.S.- Detroit, Durham, and Baltimore.
HomeToGo says the full forecast includes an interactive map and methodology,
alongside the complete list of 30 destinations.
Tags: Eleanor Moody, HomeToGo
