11 Travel Trends to Watch in 2026: Set-Jetting, Farm Stays, and More

Quick Answer

In 2026, travelers are seeking immersive, story-driven experiences. Set-jetting (travel inspired by movies and TV) and literary travel are on the rise, alongside farm stays, spontaneous adventures, and a desire for 'lore'—deep cultural connections. Odysseys Unlimited highlights these trends, noting a shift toward meaningful, personalized journeys.

Key Facts

• Set-jetting and literary travel surge: Pandemic-era binge-watching and reading fuel interest in visiting filming locations and book settings.
• Farm stays gain popularity: Travelers seek authentic rural experiences and agritourism.
• Spontaneity and adventure: American Express reports travelers leaving room for unplanned discoveries.
• Search for 'lore': Travelers want deep cultural immersion and local stories.
• Off-the-beaten-path destinations: Explore Worldwide notes a shift away from TikTok-famous spots.

Set-Jetting and Literary Travel: The Rise of Story-Driven Journeys

If you've ever dreamed of sipping coffee in the café from your favorite novel or standing where a blockbuster scene was filmed, you're not alone. Set-jetting—travel inspired by movies and TV shows—and literary travel are among the most notable trends for 2026. According to Odysseys Unlimited, this surge is partially fueled by pandemic-era binge-watching and reading, as travelers seek to bring their favorite stories to life.

Destinations like New Zealand (for The Lord of the Rings), Scotland (for Outlander), and Italy (for Eat, Pray, Love) have long attracted fans. But in 2026, the trend is expanding to lesser-known locations. For example, the success of The White Lotus has boosted interest in Sicily and Hawaii, while Bridgerton continues to draw visitors to English estates. Literary travel is also thriving, with tours focused on Jane Austen's England, Hemingway's Paris, and even dystopian fiction settings.

Odysseys Unlimited reports that many of their travelers are specifically requesting itineraries that include literary landmarks or filming locations. This trend is expected to grow as streaming platforms release more globally appealing content.

Farm Stays and Agritourism: A Return to the Land

Another trend gaining momentum is farm stays. According to Expedia, searches for farm stays have increased significantly for 2026. Travelers are looking to disconnect from busy city life and reconnect with nature, food sources, and rural communities. This aligns with a broader desire for sustainable and authentic travel experiences.

Farm stays offer hands-on activities like harvesting vegetables, feeding animals, and learning traditional crafts. They also provide a unique way to experience local culture and cuisine. Popular destinations for farm stays include Italy's Tuscany region, Japan's rural areas, and the American Midwest. Odysseys Unlimited notes that small-group tours often include visits to family-run farms, giving travelers a taste of rural life without sacrificing comfort.

Spontaneity and Adventure: The New Travel Mindset

The American Express 2026 Global Travel Trends Report reveals that travelers are embracing discovery and adventure more than ever. Whether seeking once-in-a-lifetime activities or leaving room in their itineraries for spontaneity, people want to gain new 'lore'—stories and experiences that they can share.

This trend is reflected in the rise of flexible bookings, last-minute decisions, and a willingness to deviate from rigid plans. Travelers are increasingly interested in activities like hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting, as well as cultural immersions such as cooking classes and local festivals. Odysseys Unlimited supports this by designing tours with built-in free time and optional excursions.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Destinations: Beyond TikTok

While social media continues to influence travel, Explore Worldwide reports that the destinations to visit in 2026 aren't necessarily the ones trending on TikTok. Instead, travelers are seeking less crowded, more authentic experiences. Countries like Albania, Georgia, and Rwanda are gaining attention for their unspoiled beauty and rich history.

This shift is partly a response to overtourism in popular spots like Venice and Barcelona. Travelers want to avoid crowds and contribute positively to local economies. Odysseys Unlimited's small-group model naturally lends itself to exploring lesser-known regions, offering a more intimate experience.

The 'Torture Class' and Other Industry Shifts

In a recent episode of the 'Travel Better' podcast, host Chris discussed the good, the bad, and the 'torture class' of 2026 travel trends. The term 'torture class' refers to the increasingly uncomfortable economy class experiences on some airlines, with cramped seating and reduced services. This has led some travelers to opt for premium economy or business class, or to choose alternative modes of transportation.

Another shift is the growing interest in train travel. With environmental concerns and a desire for slower travel, more people are choosing trains over short-haul flights. Europe's rail network is expanding, with new night trains connecting major cities. Odysseys Unlimited offers several rail-based tours, capitalizing on this trend.

What This Means for Travelers

For travelers planning their 2026 adventures, the key takeaway is to prioritize experiences that resonate personally. Whether it's following in the footsteps of a favorite character, getting your hands dirty on a farm, or saying yes to a spontaneous detour, the focus is on meaningful connections. Odysseys Unlimited and other tour operators are adapting by offering more customized and immersive itineraries.

As you plan, consider these trends:

• Embrace story-driven travel: Let books and films inspire your destination choices.
• Try a farm stay: Reconnect with nature and local food systems.
• Leave room for spontaneity: Don't over-schedule; allow for unexpected discoveries.
• Go off the beaten path: Seek destinations that offer authenticity over Instagram fame.
• Consider train travel: It's scenic, sustainable, and increasingly convenient.

By aligning with these trends, you can create a 2026 journey that is not only memorable but also enriching.