Exploring 2025: Travel Trends Shaping the Future

| Travel Trends

Introduction

As we approach 2025, the travel industry is undergoing significant transformation. Expedia Group’s Unpack ’25 report combines first-party data, global research, and insights from travelers to reveal emerging trends. From detour destinations to goods-focused getaways, these trends reflect the evolving ways people explore the world. Here’s a look at what’s driving travel in 2025 and how these trends will impact the future of exploration.

Key Travel Trends for 2025

1. Detour Destinations: Exploring the Road Less Traveled
Travelers are moving beyond traditional tourist hubs to discover hidden gems. Detour destinations offer less crowded, authentic alternatives near well-known spots.

    • Examples:
      • Reims, France (a quieter detour from Paris)
      • Girona, Spain (an escape from Barcelona)
      • Canmore, Alberta, Canada (a peaceful alternative to Banff)
    • Data: 63% of travelers express interest in visiting detour destinations to avoid crowds and enjoy unique experiences.

These locations are gaining traction, blending tranquility with cultural and natural wonders.

2. Goods Getaways: A Souvenir Revolution
Souvenir shopping is evolving into a central part of the travel experience. Travelers now seek local, authentic goods they can’t find at home.

    • Popular Experiences:
      • Matcha tours in Japan
      • Chocolate tastings in Belgium
      • Skincare shopping in South Korea
    • Data: 44% of travelers say they prioritize shopping for local specialties during their trips.

Goods getaways provide deeper connections to destinations through tangible memories.

3. The All-Inclusive Era: A Gen Z Revival
All-inclusive resorts are experiencing a resurgence, especially among Gen Z travelers, who value convenience and luxury.

    • Why It’s Trending:
      • Minimal stress (41% of Gen Z cite this as a key reason)
      • Ease of booking (39%)
      • A sense of indulgence (38%)
    • Hotspots:
      • Secrets Playa Blanca, Mexico
      • Riu Palace Mauritius, Mauritius

With more sophisticated offerings, all-inclusive resorts are rebranding themselves for the modern traveler.

4. JOMO Travel: The Joy of Missing Out
Amid a hyperconnected world, many travelers are embracing “JOMO”—the joy of missing out. These trips prioritize relaxation, mental well-being, and quality time with loved ones.

    • Popular Destinations:
      • Private villas in Tulum, Mexico
      • Mountain cabins in Boulder, Colorado
      • Secluded estates in Ontario, Canada
    • Data: 62% of travelers say JOMO travel reduces stress and improves mental health.

JOMO travel focuses on disconnecting from the hustle and bustle to reconnect with what matters most.

5. Phenomenal Escapes: Chasing Natural Wonders
Natural phenomena are driving travelers to seek breathtaking, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

    • Top Attractions:
      • Northern Lights in Lapland, Finland
      • Bioluminescent plankton in Vero Beach, Florida
      • Starling murmurations in the Wadden Sea, Denmark
    • Data: 61% of travelers say witnessing natural phenomena is a priority for their next trip.

Phenomenal escapes highlight the importance of the environment in inspiring awe and wanderlust.

6. Set-Jetting: Travel Inspired by Media
Movies, TV shows, and streaming platforms are shaping travel decisions, continuing the “set-jetting” trend.

    • Popular Media-Inspired Destinations:
      • Dubai (The Real Housewives of Dubai)
      • Scotland (Outlander)
      • Montana (Yellowstone)
    • Data: Two-thirds of travelers report being influenced by TV shows and films for travel inspiration.

Set-jetting offers a fresh way to experience iconic and picturesque filming locations.

Final Reflections

The Unpack ’25 report reveals three critical insights for the future of travel:

  1. Personalization and Local Experiences: Trends like goods getaways and detour destinations reflect the desire for authentic, personalized travel experiences.
  2. Mental Health and Relaxation: JOMO travel and all-inclusive resorts cater to the growing need for stress-free, restorative trips.
  3. Environmentally Conscious Choices: Phenomenal escapes showcase the significance of nature and sustainability in future travel planning.

Conclusion

Travel in 2025 is about embracing diversity, authenticity, and balance. As the Unpack ’25 report highlights, these emerging trends offer travelers opportunities to connect with destinations and themselves in new and meaningful ways. From hidden gems to natural wonders, 2025 promises to be a year of exploration like no other.

Methodology

The Unpack ’25 report combines first-party travel data from Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo, along with global surveys involving 25,000 respondents across 19 countries.