KAYAK Forecasts a Busy and Value-Driven 2026

KAYAK has released its 2026 Travel Trends Forecast, based on millions of global flight searches and pointing to a strong year for travel.

Driven by rising consumer interest, easing airfares and growing demand for emerging destinations, overall travel interest is up 9% while airfares are trending downward — decreasing by 3% on domestic routes and 10% on international itineraries. That combination is expected to support a busy and more value-driven travel year.

“Lower fares paired with growing interest give travellers more flexibility and purchasing power in 2026,” said a KAYAK spokesperson. “As airlines expand routes to lesser-known destinations, travellers are discovering new reasons — and new ways — to explore.”

Europe continues to dominate travel interest, with Eastern Europe leading the surge. Seven of the top 10 trending destinations for 2026 are located in the region, reflecting a mix of affordability, rich cultural offerings, and improved air access.

Fastest-growing destinations include:

• Prague, Czech Republic (interest up 180%)
• Sofia, Bulgaria (up 136%)
• Krakow, Poland (up 106%)
• Budapest, Hungary (up 86%)
• Tirana, Albania (up 66%)
• Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (up 62%)

Beyond Europe, Christchurch, New Zealand ranks as the fastest-growing destination overall, with flight interest up 194% year over year. New nonstop services are helping drive demand for South Island travel.

KAYAK’s forecast highlights the growing influence of pop culture, sports, and global events on travel behaviour:

• Kansas City has seen a 14% increase in flight interest, fuelled by major sporting appeal, celebrity-driven attention, and its role as a host city for the upcoming world soccer tournament.
• Milan is experiencing a 15% lift in searches as anticipation builds for the 2026 Winter Games.
• Las Vegas has rebounded strongly, with flight interest up 18% year over year, supported by new entertainment residencies, major events, and competitive pricing.

KAYAK’s data suggests that long-haul value is returning in a meaningful way. Destinations with the most significant airfare reductions include:

• Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (down 36%)
• Split, Croatia (down 33%)
• Naples, Italy (down 26%)
• Florence, Italy (down 26%)
• Shannon, Ireland (down 25%)

For travellers seeking value closer to home, New York ranks among the lowest average domestic airfares for 2026.

Advance booking activity for summer 2026 is already gaining momentum, with searches up 9% year over year. Early indicators show:

• International airfare down 12%, improving long-haul accessibility
• Asia and Europe emerging as strong value regions, with airfares down 16% and 14%, respectively
• Middle East summer travel interest up 35%, driven by expanded connectivity
• Caribbean demand up 15%, reflecting continued appetite for sun destinations