Done with long vacations? These 5 travel trends could take over in 2027

Travel habits could look quite different in 2027, with holidaymakers showing greater interest in flexible plans, shorter breaks, personal experiences and ways to return from a trip with more than just photographs.

Hilton’s 2027 Trends Report, based on a survey of more than 14,000 travellers across 14 countries and cited by News18, points to five travel patterns that are expected to gain momentum. From building solo time into group holidays to taking shorter breaks, the focus is increasingly shifting from the “perfect” vacation to trips that fit individual needs.

Solo time without travelling completely alone

Solo travel is taking on a new form. Rather than spending an entire holiday alone, many travellers are choosing to carve out time for themselves during trips with friends, colleagues or organised groups.

The report found that 41% of travellers plan to take a solo trip in the next year. This growing “solo-ish” approach can include arriving early before a group holiday, staying back after a work trip or exploring a destination independently before meeting up with others.

For travellers who value personal freedom but still enjoy company, this could offer a middle ground between conventional group holidays and completely solo trips.

Local advice could challenge AI recommendations

Travel apps and AI tools are becoming part of the planning process, but human recommendations continue to carry significant weight.

According to Hilton, 70% of travellers trust hotel staff for travel planning, compared with 63% who trust AI tools. When it comes to finding lesser-known local experiences, only 18% trust AI.

That could give hotel concierges a bigger role in helping visitors discover a destination. Instead of relying entirely on online lists, travellers may turn to people on the ground for suggestions on where to eat, which areas to explore and what attractions might not be worth the time.

Holidays that leave travellers with a new skill

Travel is also increasingly being viewed as an opportunity for personal growth. The “Growth Getaway” trend focuses on experiences that introduce travellers to new interests, skills or perspectives.

Hilton found that 42% of travellers say travel has helped them discover new interests or passions. A holiday could therefore include activities such as language lessons, cooking classes, pottery, sports or cultural workshops—experiences that can continue to have an impact even after the trip ends.

Wellness moves beyond the spa

Wellness travel is broadening beyond conventional spa treatments. Travellers are looking for experiences involving nature, movement, relaxation, technology and human connection.

The report found that 65% actively seek experiences that help calm the body and reset the nervous system, while 76% say travel helps them recharge mentally and physically in ways they struggle to achieve at home.

The outdoors also remains central, with 79% saying fresh air and nature are essential to how they relax while travelling. Water-based experiences, including pools, saunas, cold plunges, hydrotherapy and thermal facilities, are also becoming part of this wider approach to wellness.

Shorter trips, more often

The traditional long annual holiday could increasingly be supplemented by shorter getaways. Hilton found that 21% of travellers plan to add more short trips to their schedules in 2027.

These breaks can be easier to fit around work and family commitments and may allow travellers to explore several destinations across the year. Some travellers, described as “Selectors”, build a short trip around one major experience, while “Stackers” try to fit multiple activities into the same break.

The report found that 51% enjoy planning trips around a single experience, while 67% like combining several activities during a short getaway.