New Report Predicts ‘Decision Detox’ and ‘Billionaire Backlash’ Will Drive 2026 Travel Trends

More intentional travel, less decision-making, and destination dupes: these are just some of the key themes driving travel trends in 2026, according to a new report, recently published by Lemongrass Marketing.

The Lemongrass Annual Travel Trend Report is a yearly outlook produced by the B Corp-certified travel PR and content agency. With the help of industry insiders and journalists, the annual reports identify key shifts in traveler behavior, industry practices, and emerging travel themes.

In the latest edition, the report finds a clear shift in traveler preference towards less stress: a rise of “decision-free” travel, in which consumers increasingly want curated, all-inclusive itineraries that remove planning fatigue; a growing appetite for quieter, lesser-known destinations, away from crowds; and more emphasis on quieter, peaceful relaxation than over-stimulated excitement.

“This year’s report shows that consumer behaviour is fragmenting in fascinating ways, from travellers who want to outsource all decision-making on holiday to those who want to engage with politics through their travel choices,” said Tara Schwenk, senior director of digital strategy at Lemongrass. “The common thread is clarity: people want less noise and more resonance.”

Decision Fatigue & Travel Planning

The report identifies “Decision Detox” as a key theme for 2026. Travelers, worn out from “decision fatigue” at home, can have someone else plan their entire vacation for them, right down to the minute details like pre-booking massages and meals.

This goes beyond the traditional travel advisor role, planning not just details like accommodations and experiences but also everything in between for a fully curated escape.

“We’re seeing a clear shift away from travellers wanting to control every detail of their holiday plans,” said Jools Sampson, founder and owner of Reclaim Yourself Retreats. “The rise of decision fatigue, coupled with the constant presence of tech in our lives, means people no longer want to spend their precious time off buried in logistics… Instead, they’re seeking the relief of handing over the reins to an expert who can curate something impactful, seamless, and truly restorative.”

Who Wants To Be A Billionaire

On the luxury side, the report identified a rising “Billionaire Backlash” trend, noting growing consumer distaste around hyper-luxury narratives centered on exclusivity, excess, and status-driven travel. Looking to the backlash towards public figures like Jeff Bezos for his glamorous Venice wedding and Katy Perry going to space, the Lemongrass report suggests more quiet luxury will be a growing trend in 2026.

As wealth inequality becomes a cultural flashpoint, travelers are showing preferene for purpose-led experiences rather than overt displays of privilege. For the trade, this signals a shift in tone: high-end clients may still spend, but they increasingly value discretion, authenticity, and impact over spectacle.

Other 2026 Travel Trends

Another interesting 2026 travel trend is the rail resurgence, which Lemongrass expects to continue growing. Over the last year, travelers are increasingly looking for more sustainable travel options, and rail offers an appealing alternative—one that offers views of passing landscapes, making for a more immersive way to travel in a destination.

“At Byway, we’ve seen a remarkable shift in how people perceive rail travel over the past five years,” said Holly Clark, chief marketing officer at Byway. “Where once trains were the transport of the commuter, they’re now embraced as part of the adventure, a chance to journey through instead of flying over, connecting with places along the way.”

In total, The Lemongrass Annual Travel Trend Report 2026 identifies 16 travel themes, looking at everything from how politics are impacting U.S. travel, ways travel is becoming more personalized, and even the role of A.I. in sustainability efforts.

“For me, the most exciting shift is how travel is becoming deeply personal and purposeful,” said Mirjam Peternek McCartney, founder and CEO of Lemongrass Marketing. “From decision-free holidays that ease mental load, to discovering offbeat, untrending destinations, people are seeking experiences with real depth that reflect their values and life stage.”