2026 travel and dining trend predictions point to nature escapes, earlier dinners and more
Consumers can check out early insights for what travel and dining trends may have true staying power in 2026, with everything from the hottest time to score a restaurant reservation to destination-motivated vacations timed to global sporting events.
Chase Travel released its new trends report for the year ahead this week, shaped by consumers, booking data and insights from the in-house analysts and experts.
From cultural tentpole events like the Milan Winter Olympic Games to highly-anticipated hospitality openings, the report explores destinations that are set to define 2026.
Top 2026 Travel & Dining Trends
Hillary Reinsberg, head of travel and lifestyle content for Chase, told ABC News that people will be in search of more rugged, natural landscapes next year.
"In our hyper-connected world, we are seeing travelers drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations that let them experience unspoiled nature," Reinsberg said. "Hotel and tourism development in places like Chile’s Atacama desert, the Canadian Arctic, the Caribbean island of Dominica, and Sri Lanka demonstrate a growing interest in overseas national parks and exploring unique corners of the planet."
Hotels are the new landmarks
More than half of respondents booked trips around visiting a specific luxury hotel or resort and 39% of people said they have a new interest in visiting a destination with a new hotel opening, the report found.
"As seen on screen" influence
The rise of pop culture-related dining was a breakout, with 71% of respondents opting to eat at places featured either in a TV show or that were visited by a celebrity or influencer.
Similarly, 33% said that seeing a destination featured in a movie or show has prompted them to book a specific destination.
Wellness is the new luxury
Wellness or relaxation experiences such as spas, retreats and nature escapes continue to influence where consumers travel, with 78% of people opting into wellness and rejuvenation trips.
"We’re seeing a rise in reset trips -- earlier this year, travelers embraced ideas like sleep tourism and coolcations, and we expect those to evolve even further next year," Rena Shah, head of lodging and experiences for Chase Travel, told ABC News.
The rise of the fancy coffee run
Beverage first spots are overwhelmingly increasing in popularity, with people focused on putting a priority on drinks at coffee or tea shops, and 71% particularly looking for fashionable lattes that have been launched by streetwear and lifestyle brands.
The $8 pizza slice era
The trend of laid-back fine dining is in full swing as an increasing number of chefs from high-end restaurants have opened more casual eateries, and consumers are looking to spend more on a high-quality gourmet pizza with premium ingredients vs. a no-frills dollar slice.
5:30 p.m. is the new 8 p.m.
More than half of consumers would prefer to book an early reservation and head home to unwind rather than make a later reservation. The data from Chase showed 46% of people with a preference to eat earlier than usual this upcoming winter.
"More people are back in the office and likely heading straight to dinner after work. It’s also easier to get a table earlier in the evening, you can save with happy hour menus," Arden Shore, editor in chief of Infatuation, told ABC News. "Restaurants are adapting, with many of our Best New Restaurants Of 2025 now opening for dinner as early as 4 p.m. and expanding their happy hour offerings."
Top 26 Trips to Take in 2026
Europe’s newest beach hotspot, the Albanian Riviera, was atop the list of destinations for its affordable escapes, lively towns and easy access along a stunning coastline.
With more airline routes than ever and multiple new resort openings, the Bahamas slotted into the number three spot. The Basque Country in Spain and its robust food scene, followed by Botswana with new lodges and more flight connections for safari-motivated travelers, rounded out the top 5.
Domestic destinations highlighted in this year's list include Park City, Utah, with its expanded ski terrain, new hotels and airport upgrades have driven a surge for mountain-loving travelers. Route 66 made the list for Americans who want to celebrate the U.S. centennial with a road trip. Portland, Oregon, offers a blend of nature and culture with a vibrant art scene, acclaimed restaurants, a new WNBA team and a revamped airport.
