Odysseys Unlimited Reveals 11 Travel Trends for 2026

Quick Answer

Odysseys Unlimited, a small-group travel company, has identified 11 travel trends for 2026, including the rise of literary travel and set-jetting, a surge in farm stays, and a growing desire for spontaneity and adventure. These trends reflect a post-pandemic shift toward meaningful, discovery-driven travel experiences.

Key Facts

• Literary travel and set-jetting are on the rise, fueled by pandemic-era reading and binge-watching.
• Travelers in 2026 are seeking 'lore' – stories and cultural depth – in their journeys.
• Farm stays are emerging as a popular niche, according to industry reports.
• 63% of U.S. travelers plan a domestic trip in summer 2026, with California a top search destination.
• American Express reports a trend toward once-in-a-lifetime activities and spontaneous discovery.

Literary Travel and Set-Jetting Take Center Stage

In 2026, the lines between fiction and reality are blurring for travelers. Odysseys Unlimited highlights literary travel and set-jetting as two of the most significant trends shaping the year. Literary travel involves visiting places inspired by books, while set-jetting focuses on destinations made famous by movies and TV shows. This surge is partly attributed to the pandemic era, when millions turned to reading and binge-watching for comfort and escape. Now, they want to step into those stories.

For Odysseys Unlimited, this trend aligns with their small-group tours that emphasize cultural immersion. Travelers are no longer satisfied with passive sightseeing; they want to walk the streets of their favorite novels or stand where iconic scenes were filmed. This desire for narrative-driven travel is pushing tour operators to craft itineraries that cater to book clubs, film enthusiasts, and pop-culture fans.

Why Stories Matter

According to the American Express 2026 Global Travel Trends Report, travelers are increasingly seeking 'lore' – the stories, legends, and cultural context that give a destination its character. Whether it's exploring the Scottish Highlands of Outlander or the Italian vineyards of a beloved memoir, travelers want to connect with places on a deeper level. Odysseys Unlimited's tours often include expert local guides who bring these stories to life, making the experience both educational and emotional.

Farm Stays and the Search for Authenticity

Another trend gaining momentum is farm stays. As travelers look for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, staying on a working farm offers a chance to disconnect from the hustle and reconnect with nature and local food systems. This trend is particularly popular among families and solo travelers seeking a slower pace. Odysseys Unlimited notes that even luxury travelers are embracing rustic retreats, as long as they come with comfort and a good story.

The appeal of farm stays goes beyond accommodation. It's about participating in daily life – feeding animals, harvesting produce, and learning about sustainable agriculture. This hands-on travel aligns with the broader desire for meaningful experiences that leave a positive impact on communities and the environment.

Spontaneity and Once-in-a-Lifetime Adventures

The American Express report also reveals that travelers are leaving room in their itineraries for spontaneity. Instead of rigid schedules, they want the freedom to follow their curiosity. This could mean booking a last-minute cooking class in Tuscany or saying yes to a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia. Odysseys Unlimited has observed that even on guided tours, travelers appreciate free time to explore on their own.

This trend is closely tied to the pursuit of once-in-a-lifetime activities. Whether it's a private tour of the Vatican after hours or a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, travelers are willing to splurge on experiences that create lasting memories. The pandemic reminded many of the fragility of life, and now they're prioritizing adventure and discovery.

Domestic Travel on the Rise

For summer 2026, Expedia Group's Unpack '26 Summer report found that 63% of U.S. travelers are planning a domestic trip. Searches for California and other U.S. destinations are up, suggesting that many are choosing to explore closer to home. This doesn't mean international travel is down; rather, it's a sign that travelers are diversifying their plans, perhaps taking multiple shorter trips instead of one long overseas journey.

Odysseys Unlimited, which specializes in small-group tours worldwide, sees this as an opportunity to offer regional itineraries that showcase the hidden gems of North America. From the national parks of the West to the historic towns of New England, there's plenty to discover without leaving the country.

The Good, the Bad, and the 'Torture Class'

Not all trends are positive. The podcast Travel Better by Chris recently discussed the 'good, the bad, and the torture class' of 2026 travel trends. The 'bad' includes overtourism in popular hotspots, rising costs, and the environmental impact of increased travel. The 'torture class' refers to the increasingly uncomfortable experience of economy air travel, with cramped seats and reduced services. These challenges are pushing travelers to seek alternative destinations and modes of transport, such as trains and small ships.

Odysseys Unlimited addresses these concerns by limiting group sizes and choosing lesser-known destinations, ensuring a more sustainable and comfortable experience. Their tours often include stays in boutique hotels and meals at local restaurants, which helps distribute tourism revenue more evenly.

What This Means for Travelers in 2026

As you plan your 2026 adventures, consider these trends. If you're a bookworm or film buff, why not base your next trip on a favorite story? If you crave authenticity, look into farm stays or community-based tourism. And if spontaneity is your goal, leave some blank spaces in your itinerary. The travel industry is adapting to these desires, with companies like Odysseys Unlimited leading the way in crafting meaningful, small-group journeys.

Ultimately, the trends for 2026 point to a traveler who is more intentional, curious, and eager to connect with the world. Whether you're exploring a new country or rediscovering your own, the year ahead promises rich opportunities for discovery.