Travel search engine KAYAK has released its 2026 ‘What the Future’ (WTF) report, highlighting the travel trends inspiring Gen Z and Millennials this year.
KAYAK reports that Gen Z and Millennials are not always following the popular travel routines, but instead they are looking to discover the ‘next gen of destinations’ that have yet to be seen on social media. Posts on TikTok with the #hiddengems tag saw a 50% increase.
. . . Wow Factor
These generations are also seeing awe-inducing experiences, such as solar eclipses and meteor shower sightings, with natural wonders guiding 2026 travel. Credit and installment plans are also crucial for younger travellers seeking flexible payment, KAYAK says. Seeking out opportunities has increased, with flight price alerts up 4% year-on year, and car rental alerts up 60%.
Gen Z and Millennials were also found to be increasingly seeking travel recommendations from AI. KAYAK says many of those surveyed are trusting AI recommendations more than people and social media. KAYAK reports 31% use AI to find deals, 29% for on-the-go travel tips and 18% to understand visas and local rules.
. . . Events
Many are also planning itineraries around major events, be it a sporting match, a concert or festival. Getaways to small towns rather than big cities are on the rise, and luxury wellness, or ‘wellth’, is also on the rise with 66% of those surveyed saying a mental reset is a primary travel motivator.
The results were generated from survey of more than 14,000 travellers from both generations, as well as search engine and TikTok group data. See the full report HERE.
