Travel Trends Forecasted for 2025

Global Travel Trends Forecasted for 2025

The travel industry is changing fast in 2025. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced new challenges for the tourism world. Whether you work in a travel company, hotels or luggage manufacturing, understanding these trends is key to growing in the global travel market. Here’s a look at the top travel trends for 2025 and how brands can adapt.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Detour Destinations
Sustainability
Community-Focused Travel
JOMO
Meaningful Experiences
Social Media as a Driver
Road Trips and Train Travel
Bucket Lists and Slow Travel
Technology
Luxury Travel
Business Travel

1. Detour Destinations

In 2025, many travelers are avoiding crowded tourist hotspots. Expedia's 'Unpack 2025' report shows that instead, they are exploring quieter "detour destinations." For example, Girona in Spain is gaining attention as an alternative to Barcelona and Reims in France is a break from Paris.

This trend shows that travel companies can promote lesser-known destinations to attract this growing number of travelers. This trend helps manage over-tourism and creates fresh opportunities for the travel market.

By fikrirasyid

2. Sustainability

Travelers care more and more about eco-friendly options and expect hotels, airlines and other travel companies to act. For example, Copenhagen rewards tourists using bikes or public transport with free kayak tours.

Brands that focus on reducing waste, using sustainable materials or offering carbon-offset programs can gain traveler trust. Travel companies and hotels opening with green initiatives are likely to stand out in the competitive travel market.

by antoine_schibler

3. Community-Focused Travel

The pandemic showed us the importance of connection. In 2025, travelers seek experiences that help them meet new people or feel part of a community. Research by Design Hotels shows that more hotels are creating areas for socializing. Some places even offer workshops. Visitors can learn new skills there. Travel experiences that bring people together will help your brand build loyalty and stand out in the travel industry.

By wirestock

4. Wellness and JOMO Travel Are Growing

Expedia's 'Unpack 2025' report looks at the popular JOMO trend. This trend is about disconnecting from daily stress and finding peace in nature or quiet locations. Travelers are booking wellness retreats and choosing secluded spots to relax. For travel companies, promoting peaceful destinations or wellness-focused travel packages can attract these travelers. Brands can focus on how important improving mental health and well-being is.

By Rawpixel

5. Travelers Want Meaningful Experiences

Instead of visiting the same tourist spots, travelers now look for deeper connections with places. Experiences like cooking classes, wildlife tours or cultural workshops are in demand.

For example, 'agritourism' is booming as people want to learn about sustainable farming. Travel companies that offer hands-on experiences can tap into this trend and attract travelers who want to do more than just sightseeing.

By mstandret

6. Social Media Drives Travel Choices

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram play a big role in travel decisions. In 2025, "set-jetting," or visiting destinations seen in movies and TV shows, is influencing travel plans. For example, Expedia's 'Unpack 2025' report shows that Dubai saw a rise in interest after being featured in The Real Housewives of Dubai. Partnering with influencers or creating campaigns around trending destinations can boost visibility and attract a younger audience.

By wirestock

7. Road Trips and Train Travel

Road and train journeys are rising as travelers become more eco-conscious in 2025. They are seeking alternatives to flying that reduce their carbon footprint and allow them to enjoy the journey itself. This trend highlights a shift in travel behavior where the path to the destination is just as meaningful as the arrival.

For families and groups, road trips offer cost-effective travel. Sharing expenses like fuel, tolls and lodging makes road trips more affordable compared to flights.

By guillemd

8. Bucket Lists Focus on Slow Travel

The Lemongrass 2025 Travel Trends report shows that in 2025, travelers are focusing on their bucket lists. They want to spend more time in fewer places, enjoying slow travel, where people stay longer and explore deeper, gaining traction. Many travelers now prefer extended vacations that let them fully experience a destination. Travel companies can design packages for long stays or promote multi-week experiences.

By monkeybusiness

9. Technology Enhances Travel

Skift research 'Megatrends 2025' shows technology is making travel easier and more personalized in 2025. Mobile wallets, smart luggage and real-time translation apps are now standard for many travelers. The tourism sector can use tech to improve the traveler experience. For example, hotels can offer contactless check-in or personalized recommendations through AI.

By DC_Studio

10. Luxury Travel is About Experiences

The Lemongrass research also shows that luxury travel is evolving. Instead of focusing on five-star hotels or high-end amenities, travelers now value unique, meaningful experiences. They want ethical and sustainable options, like eco-friendly lodges or cultural tours that support local communities. Brands in the travel industry can redefine luxury by offering customized experiences that tell a story.

By fokkebok

11. Business Travel is Back and Transforming

After uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, business travel is making a strong comeback in 2025. The World Travel & Tourism Council projects the global value of business travel to reach $1.5 trillion in 2024, up by more than 6% compared to 2019. In the U.S. alone, business travel is expected to grow to $472 billion, a 13.4% increase.

A renewed appreciation for face-to-face interactions drives this rebound. A survey by Calendly shows that employees and leaders believe in-person meetings are essential for building relationships and fostering collaboration.

By Image-Source

The travel industry is shifting, and brands must adapt to meet changing traveler preferences. Here are some steps you can take:

Promote Sustainability: Show your commitment to eco-friendly practices to attract conscious travelers.
Embrace Technology: Use tools like mobile wallets or AI-powered services to make travel seamless.
Leverage Social Media: Collaborate with influencers and create campaigns that connect with audiences on platforms like TikTok.
Focus on Experiences: Design travel packages that are immersive, meaningful, and community-driven.

By aligning with these 2025 travel trends, tourism stakeholders can stay ahead in the competitive travel market. The demand for unique, sustainable and tech-enhanced travel experiences will only grow, offering growth opportunities.