Off-season travel brings smaller crowds, more availability and competitive pricing on flights and hotels. Off-season is a big trend for 2026.
The seasons for travel are changing. May and September are now considered peak months for international travel. April and October bring more value and less tourist traffic. Because climate change can bring unpredictably hot summer weather, more people are taking advantage of the less-traveled months.
2026 is looking like an active year for solo and train travel, as well as longer journeys with more immersive cultural tours. Whether a luxury traveler or a bargain hunter, everyone wants to find a good value. There’s a growing desire for escape from everyday life. Someplace new; something different and meaningful. Meaningful travel involves an understanding of different cultures, and respect for lands and communities that have existed for hundreds, often thousands, of years. Sustainability in travel is the respectful enjoyment of a destination’s environment without compromising the ability for future generations to do the same.
Cruises continue to draw huge numbers of passengers. While many enjoy the entertainment-filled monster ships along with thousands of people, the temptation of a river cruise or expedition ship, carrying between 50 and 600 passengers, is making many cruisers think twice. The ability to dock in smaller ports provides a chance to experience less trodden villages and old cities that haven’t become over-touristed.
Mega-cruise ships are known to burn large amounts of oil or LNG (liquified natural gas) to keep the ship moving and power the “needs” of thousands of passengers. LNG lacks visible smoke, but leaks methane, which is responsible for approximately a third of global warming today, and is about 80 times more potent than CO2 over a 20-year time span, according to the United Nations Environment Programme. The fracking process required to extract most LNG results in toxic wastewater, according to nonprofit advocacy group Stand.Earth that has been fighting against pollution from ferries that operate in British Columbia.
Small ships also face environmental challenges. The smaller scale, however, makes eco-friendly alternatives, including solar and wind energy, easier to implement. A small ship can often access shore power while docked rather than run generators or engines nonstop as on a large ship with massive requirements for air conditioning, dishwashing, laundry, bathrooms and entertainment.
River cruise destinations have expanded to include the Amazon, Columbia and Magdalena Rivers in South America, the Nile in Egypt, Mekong in Cambodia and Chobe River as part of an African Safari. France and Portugal are catching up to the Danube and Rhine rivers for popularity in Europe while the mighty Mississippi River attracts travelers who want to remain stateside.
And then there’s Norway’s coast, dotted with small archipelagos, which has become the new bucket list trip for both the Northern Lights in winter and Midnight Sun in summer.
Here are 8 Tips and Trends for 2026 Travel *
For international travel, check your passport to make sure the expiration date is at least six months from your date of arrival at your destination.
For domestic air travel, you’ll need to bring your passport or a REAL-ID document, which most often is a qualified driver’s license.
Puerto Rico is trending because of major renovations and new resorts as a comeback from Hurricane Maria back in 2017. Puerto Rico is a US territory, so you can visit without a passport, currency exchange or international phone plan. Fun fact: The piña colada was created in Puerto Rico. It’s now considered the island’s official drink. And yes, Puerto Rico is part of the Caribbean.
More resorts have added accommodations for multigenerational families. A three- or four-bedroom “villa” with en-suite bathrooms, kitchen and private pool can easily accommodate families who don’t want to eat all meals in restaurants. Holiday or “festive season” accommodations get booked very early. Plan ahead.
Small ships, because they have fewer cabins, sell out quickly. Small ships are already selling for 2027. People who don’t plan that far ahead may take advantage of last-minute availability due to someone else’s cancellation.
“Solo group” travel. Small groups of like-minded single travelers make it easier to go solo without being alone or totally on your own. Especially popular among older women, these trips are an easy way for find new compatible travel buddies.
Train travel. New sleeper trains are being added in Europe starting in spring of 2026. Sleep in a private cabin instead of a hotel when moving between cities or countries, such as a new direct Denmark to Switzerland route. A new luxury train connects Paris to Positano. Amtrak offers train/hotel packages across the United States.
Earn and redeem loyalty points through Marriott, Hyatt, Hilton, Best Western and IHG brands, all of which are buying boutique hotels throughout the world.
*Source – Friendly Group Travel, Westbrook, Conn.
Marcia Simon, owner of Friendly Group Travel, writes about travel, wellness and sustainability. Connect via email: [email protected] or phone 860-399-0191.