Eight Travel Trends to Watch in 2025
As we head into 2025, the travel landscape continues to shift, influenced by the growing demand for authentic and personalized experiences. The latest Unpack ’25 report from Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo highlights these changing trends, particularly among younger generations like Gen Z. Here are eight trends that will shape the way we travel in the coming year:
Detour Destinations Travelers are opting for less-explored destinations to avoid overtourism. Places like Girona, Spain, offer a more authentic and peaceful experience compared to overcrowded tourist hotspots like Barcelona. Similarly, Brescia (instead of Milan) and Reims (instead of Paris) provide quieter, culturally rich alternatives.
Goods Getaways In 2025, travelers will increasingly focus on “goods getaways,” combining exploration with shopping for unique, locally made items. For instance, Uji, Japan, known for its matcha, allows visitors to immerse themselves in tea culture while collecting exclusive tea products. Marrakech’s markets and Costa Rican coffee plantations are also top choices for this trend.
The All-Inclusive Era All-inclusive resorts are evolving from budget offerings to luxury experiences. Gen Z is driving this trend, seeking high-end resorts that blend relaxation with curated experiences. AVA Resort in Cancun, with its private plunge pools and gourmet dining, is setting the standard for a sophisticated all-inclusive vacation.
The Hotel Restaurant Renaissance Hotels are now becoming food destinations in themselves. With high-profile chefs collaborating with hotels to create world-class dining experiences, travelers are choosing accommodations based on the food alone. The Fontainebleau Las Vegas, with its 30+ restaurants, is a prime example, offering exclusive dining experiences that elevate the stay.
JOMO Travel (Joy of Missing Out) In response to the hustle and bustle of daily life, many travelers are embracing JOMO—seeking solitude and peace by unplugging from technology. Properties like The Old Millhouse in Dalkeith, Scotland, offer secluded escapes, providing an ideal setting for a digital detox. Other JOMO escapes include waterfront homes in Oregon and luxury domes in Maine.
The Phenomena-List 2025 will see a rise in phenomenon-based travel, where people seek once-in-a-lifetime natural events. From the synchronous fireflies in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, to bioluminescent plankton in Florida, travelers will be chasing these mesmerizing natural occurrences to create unforgettable memories.
Set-Jetting As media continues to influence travel choices, set-jetting is gaining popularity. Fans of TV shows and movies are traveling to destinations featured on screen. Dubai, for instance, saw a 30% increase in searches following the release of The Real Housewives of Dubai. Similarly, Yellowstone fans are flocking to Montana and Wyoming, while South Africa is attracting followers of One Piece.
One-Click Trips Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are making travel planning easier than ever. Influencers and content creators are curating entire travel experiences that can be booked with a simple click. This trend is streamlining the booking process, allowing spontaneous travelers to book unique experiences with minimal effort.
Read More: Top Visa-Free Destinations for Travelers Holding a US Visa
These trends reflect the ongoing evolution of the travel industry, driven by a desire for more meaningful, personalized, and accessible adventures.
