Relaxation, curiosity, and bucket-list destinations are shaping travel in 2026. Travel insurance comparison site Squaremouth has surveyed thousands of its customers to gain insight into what is driving travel this year.
Below are the key factors influencing travelers’ decisions in 2026:
- Relaxation is the No. 1 Motivator for Travelers This Year
- Travel this year is trending toward self-care and recovery.
- One-third of travelers (33 percent) are taking trips this year to relax and unwind.
- Travelers Are Influenced by Curiosity
- Purposeful travel, blended with leisure and culture, continues to influence travelers’ decisions.
- Of those surveyed, 32 percent of travelers are making travel decisions based on curiosity and learning.
- Travel Planning Centers Around Dream Destinations
- Meaningful and once-in-a-lifetime trips are a priority over price alone.
- Over one-third of travelers (35.2 percent) are planning their 2026 travel based on dream destinations and bucket-list trips.
- These results outpace other planning behaviors, such as timing, recommendations, or travel deals.
- Safety is a Top Consideration
- Travel risk is top of mind this year, as 75 percent of travelers are making travel decisions with safety, health, or insurance considerations in mind.
- Travel Insurance Provides Booking Confidence
- Travel insurance is a driving factor in trips being planned this year.
- 63 percent of travelers are more likely to book a trip because they know travel insurance can protect their investment.
- Cost and Time Are the Top Travel Barriers
- Trip value and affordability are impacting how often travelers take trips this year.
- Nearly half of travelers (46 percent) have budget constraints that keep them from traveling more frequently.
- 27 percent cannot travel as frequently as they’d like to, due to time or work commitments.
“Last year was a particularly stressful year for travelers, with rising trip costs and more travel disruptions than previous years,” shared Chrissy Valdez, senior director of operations at Squaremouth. “This year, travelers are showing a willingness to spend on what matters most, prioritizing wellness, unforgettable experiences, and safety.”
Having the right policy for specific travel needs can offer protection from the unexpected, whether traveling for relaxation or crossing a destination off the bucket list. To compare and purchase the right policy, visit Squaremouth.
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