It's never too early to start planning your next vacation, especially if you're already looking ahead to 2027. In fact, getting an early start can give you more options for destinations, accommodations, and travel dates.
But before you decide where to go, it's worth taking a look at what's happening in the travel industry. New destinations are gaining popularity, vacation styles are changing, and some options may offer better value than others.
With that in mind, here are a few travel trends to consider as you plan for 2027.
What's New? Smaller Destinations Are Getting Attention
Paris, Rome, and Cancun will always have their fans, but more travelers are looking beyond these historical hot spots.
Expedia's 2027 travel forecast indicates growing interest in destinations such as Hyogo, Japan; Perugia, Italy; and Busan, South Korea. Here in the U.S., South Lake Tahoe and Sedona are also drawing attention.
Sometimes the best part of traveling is finding a great little restaurant, exploring an interesting neighborhood, or visiting somewhere that isn't packed with tourists, so you can immerse yourself in a place instead of elbowing the guy next to you for a better selfie.
These destinations aren't necessarily cheaper, but smaller destinations can offer better value than their more famous neighbors.
What's Out? Packing Every Minute of Your Vacation
You know those vacations where you come home feeling like you need another vacation?
More people are trying to avoid that.
Instead of cramming every attraction into a schedule, leave room to relax and enjoy where you are.
For families, that might mean taking a break from the theme parks to enjoy the resort pool. For couples visiting Europe, it could mean spending a few extra days in one region rather than rushing through three countries in four days.
Being present and soaking in the details isn’t just a passing thought; it’s a new way to travel: slow and deliberate.
What's Trending? Traveling for Something You Love
Not every vacation has to start with a destination.
Maybe you've always wanted to take a cooking class in Italy, visit historic castles in Scotland, or plan a getaway around a music festival.
More travelers are building trips around their interests, which opens up some fun possibilities.
Even Disney and Universal vacations fit into this trend. Adults are planning theme park trips with friends, and families are choosing experiences they enjoy together.
It's a nice change from feeling like you must visit somewhere simply because everyone else is going.
Cruising Is Still Going Strong
Cruising remains popular, and 2027 is expected to be another big year.
AAA projects that approximately 22.4 million Americans will take ocean cruises in 2027.
There's a lot to like about cruising. You unpack once, visit several destinations, and have dining, entertainment, and activities available onboard.
There's also a cruise for just about every travel style, from family-friendly ships to adults-only sailings and smaller ships focused on exploring destinations.
What's Out? Paying for Things You Don't Need
Here's a trend we can get behind: travelers paying closer attention to what they're getting for their money.
Booking.com's 2027 travel predictions suggest growing interest in vacation packages that let travelers skip services or extras they won't use.
If you rarely drink alcohol, an expensive beverage package probably isn't a great investment. And if your ideal resort vacation involves relaxing by the pool, you might not need a property with endless activities.
The goal isn't necessarily to book the cheapest vacation. It's to spend your money on what you’ll use, not bells and whistles that don’t appeal to you.
Where Can You Get the Best Bang for Your Buck in 2027?
A few vacation options are worth keeping on your radar.
Caribbean and Mexico all-inclusive resorts: Having meals, drinks, and activities included can make budgeting easier. Just pay attention to what's covered.
Cruises: With accommodations, meals, entertainment, and travel between ports bundled together, cruising can offer excellent value, depending on the ship and itinerary.
Traveling outside peak seasons: Moving your vacation by even a week or two can sometimes save money and mean fewer crowds.
Choosing accommodations that fit your needs: A vacation villa, larger hotel room, or resort with useful amenities might be a better deal than a cheaper room that doesn't offer what your family needs.
Sometimes the best way to stretch your budget is to spend less in one area so you can enjoy something special somewhere else.
What's the Takeaway for 2027?
If these trends have one thing in common, it's that people want vacations that feel worthwhile.
That doesn't mean you have to visit an unusual destination. A week at the beach, a family Disney vacation, or a Caribbean cruise can still be exactly what you need.
It's about finding the right experience at a price that makes sense for you.
Thinking about traveling in 2027? Our travel advisors can help you explore destinations, compare vacation options, and put together a trip that fits your interests and budget.
