Trending Trips for 2026
By: Maggie Ballantyne, Team Lead & Travel Advisor
January 15, 2026
2026 is bringing expert planning back into focus. Travelers are prioritizing smoother trips, fewer surprises, and experiences that feel curated rather than thrown together. They still want to see what’s popular, enjoy the latest trends, have fun, learn something new, and get the biggest bang for their buck. From longer stays and experiential travel to celebrating life’s biggest milestones, these trends are reshaping how travelers choose their destinations. Here’s what I’m seeing as trending destinations for 2026 travel:
“Coolcations”
Alaskan cruises, Norwegian fjords, New England / Canada, and Northern Lights adventures are trending for travelers seeking cooler climates, stunning scenery, and immersive exploration. These destinations offer a variety of excursions and activities to suit every activity level, from leisurely sightseeing to more adventurous exploration. Everyone can get off the ship and enjoy exploring a new destination at their own pace.
Epic Universe
Universal Orlando’s newest theme park opened in 2025, and it did not disappoint. 2026 is the perfect year to experience its thrilling new lands, from jumping through magical portals to stepping into the worlds of your favorite classics. Enjoy delicious and imaginative food, revisit the nostalgia of the Dark Universe, and dive into the excitement of Mario’s colorful adventures! Even if you’re a Harry Potter fan who has explored Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley, you’ll want to revisit Epic Universe to step inside the Ministry of Magic.
Disneyland Paris
Step into the magic of Frozen with a brand-new Arendelle section in the park, featuring themed rides, dining, and character experiences. The park also boasts an incredible Marvel-themed hotel that you won’t find anywhere in the U.S. Visiting Disney parks around the world offers unique experiences, and as these parks continue to evolve, returning ensures you’ll never have the same adventure twice. Every trip brings something new to discover, making each visit unforgettable.
History & Charm
Travelers seeking a vacation at their own pace are flocking to destinations like Ireland, with its scenic landscapes, charming villages, and rich local culture. These trips can be guided, in groups, or fully customized for the individual traveler. Another great way to explore multiple historical landmarks in one vacation is on a river cruise, which offers top-tier customer service, thoughtfully planned itineraries, included excursions, and exceptional value. These experiences fill up fast, so planning ensures you don’t miss out! I will help you find the vacation that best matches what you are looking for!
Italy
This is a destination that truly offers something for everyone. From the historic streets of Rome and Florence to the canals of Venice, the rolling hills of Tuscany, and the stunning Amalfi and Cinque Terre coastlines, Italy provides a mix of experiences for every traveler. Beaches, historic landmarks, vibrant markets, cooking classes, and world-class dining make it a paradise for foodies and culture lovers alike. These vacations are the perfect blend of learning, relaxing, and exploring, ensuring each trip feels uniquely memorable. I always recommend my clients take at least one dessert tour. I took one while visiting Rome and it was a highlight of the trip!
Disney World
Whether it’s for a special occasion, a first visit, or a nostalgic walk down memory lane, Disney World continues to set the pace for travel trends. In 2026, families staying on property can enjoy FREE water park tickets in the summer, FREE dining plans for children under 10, and a variety of discounts and promotions I can help you secure. Exciting new experiences include Bluey making her way to the parks, a brand-new Zootopia 4D attraction, the dazzling Starlight Parade continuing to light up the Magic Kingdom, a never-before-seen version of Soarin’ flying into Epcot, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster starring the Muppets, and more. With holiday parties, after-hours events, and constant announcements of all things new, there’s always something to explore, and every visit promises memories you won’t forget!
Cruises
Cruises are a popular travel option because they combine convenience, variety, and value. Onboard, you can visit multiple destinations without constantly packing and unpacking, enjoy a wide range of family-friendly and adult-only activities, and take advantage of included meals and entertainment. I love that it feels all-inclusive like a resort yet allows you to explore more than one destination in a single vacation. I’ll help you navigate the thousands of itineraries, ships, and destinations to find the perfect fit for your family!
2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for travelers, with experiences ranging from epic theme park adventures and immersive cultural trips to relaxing cruises and scenic escapes. No matter what kind of vacation you’re dreaming of, I’m here to help you navigate the trends, find the perfect destinations, and plan every detail so your trip is seamless, memorable, and uniquely yours. Let’s make 2026 the year your next adventure becomes reality! When you are ready to begin planning, please reach out to me at maggie@wishesfamilytravel.com
All trips and experiences referenced in this post were purchased at the consumer rate.