The Points Guy Releases its 2026 Travel Trends Report

The Points Guy (TPG), the media platform focused on maximizing travel experiences while minimizing spending, released its 2026 Travel Trends Report, highlighting the global conditions that will shape how and where Americans will travel next year.

Big Picture
- Travel remains a priority:
Despite economic uncertainty and stricter policies, Americans are budgeting for international trips in 2026.

- Shift in habits:
Travelers are moving away from crowded, expensive cities toward unique, affordable, and nature-focused destinations.

- Shoulder-season travel:
More people are spreading trips throughout the year to avoid peak crowds and costs.

Economic & Policy Factors
- Weaker U.S. Dollar: Dropped ~10% in the first half of 2025, the largest six-month dip since 1973.
- Strong in: New Zealand, East Caribbean, Brazil.
- Weaker in: UK and Eurozone countries (France, Italy, Ireland).
- Immigration & screening policies: Stricter rules have reduced international visitors to the U.S., impacting tourism flows.

Emerging Destinations
- Airlines expanding routes: United and JetBlue adding flights to lesser-traveled cities like Norfolk (VA), Wilmington (NC), Ho Chi Minh City, and Adelaide.
- Smaller airports booming: Search volume for airports like Yampa Valley (Colorado) and Bozeman Yellowstone (Montana) has doubled compared to 2025.
- Hotels diversifying: Partnerships with boutique brands (e.g., Hyatt with Mr & Mrs Smith, Hilton with Small Luxury Hotels) broaden loyalty program options.

Premium vs. Budget Divide
- Luxury perks rising: Credit cards (Chase Sapphire Reserve, Amex Platinum) raised fees but added richer rewards.
- Airlines upgrading cabins: More investment in premium lounges and front-of-cabin experiences.
- Gap widens: Complimentary upgrades are rarer; exclusivity is becoming the norm.

AI in Travel
- Efficiency boost: AI tools cut trip planning time by 50–80%.
- Adoption rates: Millennials (57%) and Gen Z (53%) are leading in AI use.
- Caution advised: AI recommendations aren’t yet strictly regulated, so travelers should remain selective.

Loyalty & Credit Ecosystems
- Beyond points: Issuers are building proprietary ecosystems with lifestyle perks and brand partnerships.
- Savvy travelers: Tools like Seats.aero and Rooms.aero help avoid overlapping perks and maximize rewards.

Key takeaway:
2026 travel will be shaped by economic pressures, exclusivity in experiences, AI-driven planning, and a shift toward alternative destinations.