Luxury travel advisor resource, Classic Vacations, released its first-ever luxury travel trends report, revealing insights into booking behaviors, motivations and rising travel trends.
According to travel advisors, luxury travel is set for strong growth in 2026 as travelers prioritize meaningful, personalized experiences, spending more on trips that matter, milestone celebrations, relaxation, quality family time, and bucket-list adventures.
Melissa Krueger, CEO of Classic Vacations, said in a statement, “Classic’s inaugural Luxury Travel Trends Report offers a peek into the emerging trends that our travel advisors predict will shape the industry in the year ahead.”
She added, “Advisors are seeing a clear shift in how luxury travelers explore the world — intentionally moving beyond traditional destinations and standard itineraries to seek transformative experiences. Classic is proud to provide the tools and resources that enable advisors to make this impact, while continuing to strengthen our products and platform for advisors and suppliers.”
Key findings of the report include:
Top 2026 Destinations – International Destinations: Italy, Greece, Japan, Portugal, Croatia, and France, Domestic Destinations: Hawaii, Florida (Keys), California (Napa/Sonoma), New York (City), and Arizona (Scottsdale).Luxury Travel Demand and Spend – 77 percent indicate that demand for luxury travel will increase among their clients, with 71 percent reporting the average amount luxury travelers will invest per trip will increase significantly.Travel Motivations – include celebrating milestones, rest and relaxation, and family time. 81 percent report travelers are booking vacations to celebrate life’s biggest moments, such as anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, pregnancies, weddings, and more. 67 percent say travelers are booking vacations for rest and relaxation and 66 percent report travelers are booking vacations with their families to maximize time together.Most In-Demand Destination Types – Travelers are most interested in visiting beaches, culturally significant sites, and off-the-beaten-path regions. 76 percent say destinations such as Hawaii, the Caribbean, and Mexico will remain in high demand for luxury travelers, 56 percent believe travelers look for destinations rich in history and local culture and 29 percent expect “off-the-beaten-path” destinations to rise.Most In-Demand Experiences – Travelers are seeking unique and engaging experiences. 54 percent believe that adventure or soft-adventure experiences will be in high demand, while 23 percent anticipate unique culinary experiences will increase, and 20 percent predict that film- or book-inspired travel, known as “set jetting,” will continue to captivate travelers.Traveler Booking Behaviors – indicate early bookings to secure preferred experiences and accommodations, with 75 percent of travel agents reporting clients are booking between five to 11 months in advance. 74 percent named cost and budget a key factor, 67 percent noted personal motivations and 60 percent related to family schedules. Whycations: Purpose-Led Travel- trips with intention – include immersive itineraries, longer stays, and quietly luxurious retreats that foster connection and meaning. Hushpitality: Wellness Travel with Minimal Noise – as travelers show interest in low-stimulus escapes that emphasize peace, nature and mental restoration.Luxury, Elevated: Personalized Indulgence Takes Center Stage – as luxurious travel is increasing the standard with custom-crafted itineraries with micro-luxury touches.Connectivity: Travel That Brings People Together – Group and relationship-driven travel is evolving as travelers prioritize shared experiences with the people who matter most. The Resurgence of YOLO – is inspiring travelers to finally take the bucket-list trips they’ve long imagined. Advisors report clients are leaning into dream destinations and major experiences with a “why wait?” attitude.
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