As we get closer to 2025, here are some trends in travel, culture and technology that might shape the way you travel in the coming year.
Wellness and slow travel: More people are focusing on health and wellness when they travel. They’re choosing activities like yoga retreats, hikes and spa visits to feel refreshed.
“Slow travel” is also popular, with travelers spending more time in one place instead of hurrying from one spot to another.
Off-the-beaten-path: Popular cities and regions are getting more crowded, so many people are looking for quieter places.
Travel data from Expedia and Booking.com show that people are choosing quieter, lesser-known places instead. In fact, 63% of travelers said they are likely to visit an out-of-the-way destination on their next trip, according to Expedia’s “Unpack ’25” survey of 25,000 people from 19 countries.
Hybrid work and travel: The hybrid work model, which became popular during the pandemic, is here to stay and is changing how people travel.
Remote workers want more than just a new place to work; they are looking for places that support both their job needs and their love for cultural, recreational, culinary and other amenities they enjoy when on a trip.
Group travel: Group travel is making a comeback, but with smaller, more personalized groups. People are choosing to travel with friends, family, or even with strangers who share similar interests.
Travel tech: Technology will continue to shape how people travel and provide resources for inspiration. From facial recognition for boarding flights to smartphone apps replacing hotel key cards, travelers are welcoming contactless solutions.
Artificial intelligence (AI) helps travelers plan their trips, suggesting places to stay, eat, and things to do based on past trips.
Social media: Many people get travel ideas from social media influencers, especially younger travelers. About 78% of Americans say influencers inspire them to try new places.
Cultural and historical preservation: Travelers are becoming more interested in visiting places that preserve their history and culture. UNESCO sites, national parks, state parks and historical sites are appealing to multiple generations.
Ask a pro: The demand for professional travel advice is making a comeback. For years, the rise of online resources reduced the need for travel agents and other professionals. As travel options expanded, it became increasingly difficult to distinguish quality services and plan more complicated trips.
A recent survey showed that nearly half of U.S. leisure travelers say they’re more inclined to consult a travel agent or advisor for their trip planning.
Year of the foodie: Last September, Hilton released its Trends Report survey of Americans that indicated 20% of those surveyed will travel specifically to find new dining experiences. After lodging, dining was the next highest travel budget priority for 2025, surpassing shopping.
Meetings and conventions: For 14 years, American Express has produced its Global Forecast, a comprehensive snapshot of the meetings and events industry landscape.
The 2025 forecast shows that the industry is expected to grow steadily, with bigger budgets and a positive attitude, even with challenges like rising costs and not enough staff. While online learning and AI technology are useful, the study found that planners and their guests want human connection.
Despite some political and economic uncertainty for 2025, data suggests that people will likely continue to travel, though at a slower pace compared to the surge of big trips seen in the post-pandemic years.
Nevertheless, tourism will remain a valuable source of economic benefit both locally and globally, while providing travelers with cultural and personal enrichment.
