As a new year unfolds, the travel industry is facing a fresh set of challenges. Competition is fiercer than ever, fueled by geopolitical shifts, technological advancements and the rise of AI. Staying ahead is no longer optional, but a crucial strategy to survive in a highly competitive market. For tour operators, this means being adaptable, understanding customer needs and keeping pace with the trends that matter in 2026.
That’s why we hosted our latest webinar, ‘2026 Top Luxury Travel Trends’. Joined by industry experts Sam Clark (Experience Travel Group), Jason Reckers (Nexus K3), Alisdair Luxmoore and Peyton Labiak (Vamoos), we explored the key trends shaping the travel industry in 2026. Ready to outpace your competition? The full recording is ready to watch below!
‘2026 Top Luxury Travel Trends’ Webinar Recording
Trend 1: high-value bookings are on the rise
To kick things off, Sam Clark from Experience Travel Group highlighted a key trend for 2026 – the rise of high-value travel experiences. Although overall inquiries have slowed, Sam explained that this has been balanced out by an increase in high-value bookings, driven by a growing demand for immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences. From witnessing the Northern Lights to unwinding in the Maldives, travellers are keener than ever to cross off their bucket list destinations.
Sam also highlighted a shift towards adventurous summer trips amongst families, with parents opting for outdoor experiences in place of typical beach getaways. In addition, last-minute bookings are also on the rise, as travellers search for unforgettable experiences that pique their interest – ranging from cultural excursions to culinary tours.
Read now: how luxury travel companies are using AI
Trend 2: the growing demand for luxury adventure travel
Next, Jason Reckers from Nexus K3 discussed the thriving adventure travel market, which is currency valued at $1 trillion, and expected to reach $2 by 2032. With 67% of travellers now seeking adventure experiences, 27% are focused on cultural exploration, 14% crave high intensity trips, 14% are drawn to nature, and 12% enjoy a variety of activities. What’s more, the concept of adventure tourism is expanding to encompass a variety of niches – wellness, culture, luxury and sustainability, to name a few.
While sustainable travel and cultural exploration continue to trend upwards, with travellers seeking meaningful connections with local communities and the environment, luxury adventure travel has truly taken centre stage. Blending challenging outdoor experiences with high-end accommodation, these trips are particularly popular with high net-worth individuals. For travel companies trying to stand out in the ever-changing travel market, Jason emphasised the value of focusing on a niche segment and offering unique, highly tailored experiences.
Trend 3: AI takes centre stage
Lastly, Peyton Labiak from Vamoos highlighted a key trend for 2026; the increasing impact of AI within the travel industry. With travel businesses under immense pressure to achieve more with fewer resources, AI tools are quickly becoming part of everyday workflows.
In particular, Peyton spotlighted Imsert, an AI-powered image management tool for travel companies. Imsert automatically tags images based on geolocation, landmarks and content, reducing the hassle of image organisation. Imsert integrates directly with the Vamoos Travel App, allowing for seamless creation of personalised, visually-rich travel itineraries, without the manual work. However, the panel agreed that while AI can be an invaluable addition to your daily workflow, it’s the human touch that builds trust with clients and truly sets your travel experiences apart.
Read now: AI tools and tips for itineraries
Curious to find out more about Vamoos, or Imsert, the handy AI image management tool? Book a Zoom meeting now to find out more, or get started with a FREE trial of Vamoos!
