Photo: Shutterstock The year 2026 marks a new era in tourism, with travelers’ curiosity and confidence driving them further than ever. According to a comprehensive survey of 2,000 British holidaymakers by low-cost airline easyJet, holidays have become an integral part of their lifestyle.
This means people are willing to cut back on other expenses, such as dining out or buying clothes, to finance their vacations.
The easyJet survey found that travelers are no longer content with nearby destinations. Flights of 5-6 hours are becoming the new norm, with destinations such as Morocco, Egypt and Georgia recording a significant increase in demand among Britons.
More than half of respondents (52%) said they plan to visit a new country this year. At the same time, there is a growing demand for affordable luxury: about a quarter of travelers are looking for five-star experiences at affordable prices, especially in North Africa.
Technology is changing the planning process. Nearly half of travelers say they virtually explore a destination using VR tours or Google Street View before booking. Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a key tool in designing personalized itineraries.
Photo: ShutterstockBeyond technology, travelers are looking for meaning. Notable trends include "dark sky tourism", which refers to seeking out secluded spots to watch the stars and eclipses, Set Jetting, which is choosing destinations based on series like "The White Lotus" or popular movies. Sports and Spirituality, a rise in the popularity of vacations that combine paddle and pickleball, and a renewed interest in traditional religious journeys among Generation Z.
easyJet data show that the average British holiday lasts at least 10 days. with 52% of respondents planning two or more holidays in 2026 and 57% saying they prefer investing in experiences over material goods.
Photo: easyjetRegarding vacation financing, 20% of Generation Z members sell clothing on secondhand platforms to fund their trips.
Bottom line: 2026 is the year of optimism in tourism, according to the study. Travelers are using smarter tools to maximize their budget, but not compromising on the quality of the experiences and memories they gain.