Booking Holdings subsidiary KAYAK released its 2026 "What the Future" travel report. The analysis uses search data and traveler surveys to identify key trends for the upcoming year.
The findings highlight a significant shift in travel planning. Forty-one percent of Gen Z and Millennial travelers now trust AI recommendations over those from friends.
Traveler preferences point toward smaller towns and "hidden gem" destinations not heavily featured on social media. Trends like "slow travel" and more frequent, shorter weekend getaways are also expected to shape the 2026 travel landscape.
The report did not generate significant market analysis or a notable stock reaction upon its release.