Published 23rd Mar. 2026
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We’ve always tried to be one step ahead of travel trends, and 2026 is no different. When it comes to deciphering what’s ‘in’, what’s ‘out’ and, most importantly, what’s worth paying attention to, the Original Travel team have their fingers firmly on the pulse. If you’re hoping to stay ahead of the curve, then read on to find out what’s hot, and what’s not, in travel right now.
First, sleeper trains made a comeback; now the luxury (and yes, we do mean luxury) night bus is having its revival. To the delight of Destination X fans everywhere, Swiss operator Twiliner has just launched a new cross-continental service. Think reclining seats, cosy blankets and the chance to get your Z’s in while heading to an exciting new destination.
Image by Boby
Love turning your travels into stories? Then you’re what we dub a ‘Racontourist’. This growing tribe of travellers are using their trips as inspiration, collecting anecdotes, photos and memorable moments along the way. Whether journalling, blogging, posting or simply telling dinner party tales, every trip becomes an opportunity to capture experiences and share the stories behind them.
If you prefer a home-from-home experience while travelling, you’re in luck. Private villas, apartments and characterful houses are becoming increasingly popular ways to stay, offering the simple comforts of everyday life in an exciting new place. Think your own kitchen, room to spread out and the freedom to start the day with a proper cup of coffee – ideally enjoyed in your pyjamas.
Image by Pie Aerts
Sweden is positioning itself as ‘the world’s first travel destination on prescription’. Its tongue-in-cheek ad campaign promotes the country’s clean air, pristine nature and culture of ice baths and saunas as the ultimate in well-being holidays – so, in 2026, we’re ditching the face masks and heading for the fjords instead.
Image by Gregor Lengler/STERN-LAIF-REA
Partial to a lie-in? You’re in luck: sleep tourism is on track to be a £132 billion industry by 2030. The world’s savviest hotels are already in on the act, offering sleep programmes where the only thing on the itinerary is a blissful dose of nothing.
Forget flight guilt. Next-gen hydrogen planes are going to change the game, slashing emissions while keeping the thrill of travel alive. This year, you’ll enjoy your holiday even more knowing you travelled green.
Speaking of planes – fed up with feeling rough after a long flight? Qantas’ Project Sunrise features the launch of a non-stop London-Sydney flight, bolstered by research aimed at combating the physical effects of long-haul travel. Expect to see circadian cabin lighting, smarter catering and more space to move.
Image by Faustine Poidevin-Gros
Good news for introverts: gen Z is ghosting group tours in favour of solo travel. Wander at your own pace, eat what you want, nap whenever and change plans on a whim – freedom trumps forced fun every time.
Single-use trips are so last year. Now, travellers are coming for the gig (or wedding, tournament, biennale, you name it) and staying on for the holiday. More than ever, people are travelling abroad for an event or occasion and then staying on for an ‘Encore Escape’.
Image by Miren Alós
Safaris are evolving, and women are taking the lead, both behind the wheel and in the savannah. Demand for solo female travel has surged by a whopping 230 per cent, while more women are training as guides with all-female initiatives in Botswana, Kenya and Zambia. Who runs the world…
Header Image by Katie Mukhina / Pexels
Practical advice and inspiration for your next trip
Here at Original Travel, we like to stay ahead of the curve – it’s in our name, after all. Our team is firmly future-focused, using their combined expertise to predict the trends set to rock the travel industry in the coming year. From theatrical trifectas and luxury legacies to the K-pop craze and Motown memorabilia, read on for the 2026 trends on our travel radar... Life in Three Acts Old Brand and Brand New Sosei,
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