The Top Travel Trends for 2025
As we look to 2025, the landscape of travel continues to evolve, with shifting preferences driven by a desire for new experiences and more authentic, personalized adventures. As highlighted in the latest Unpack '25 report by Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo, travelers—especially Gen Z—are reshaping the way we explore.
From detour destinations to one-click trips, here's a glimpse into eight trends that are bound to define the way we vacation in the year ahead.
1.Detour Destinations
Travelers are increasingly turning to lesser-known destinations as a reaction to overtourism. Instead of following the crowd to major tourist hotspots, people are seeking quieter, more authentic locations that offer the same charm but without the overwhelming crowds.
With Barcelona struggling under the weight of overtourism, Girona offers a more relaxed and authentic alternative. Wander through the city’s medieval streets, take in the historic walls, and enjoy local Catalan cuisine without the tourist crowds. Other similar destinations include opting for Brescia over Milan or Reims instead of Paris.
2.Goods Getaways
In 2025, a growing trend is "goods getaways," where the focus shifts from sightseeing to collecting unique, locally made products. Whether it's rare spices, handmade goods, or luxury items, these trips combine the thrill of exploration with shopping for exclusive finds.
Known as the birthplace of matcha, Uji provides a deeper dive into traditional tea culture. Tour lush plantations, enjoy ceremonial-grade matcha, and take part in tea-picking experiences—perfect for both cultural immersion and bringing home exclusive tea products. Popular goods getaways also include shopping in Marrakech markets or picking up organic coffee from Costa Rica.
3.The All-Inclusive Era
All-inclusive resorts are shedding their outdated, budget-focused reputation, as Gen Z looks for luxe, all-inclusive vacations that offer both relaxation and curated experiences. These resorts are becoming synonymous with high-end experiences, combining spa treatments, activities, and gourmet dining into one seamless package.
This oceanfront luxury resort in Cancun is redefining all-inclusive offerings, with private plunge pools, gourmet dining, and wellness programs that make it a sophisticated escape. Other top-tier examples include Alpinresort ValSaa in Austria and Royalton CHIC in Antigua.
4.The Hotel Restaurant Renaissance
For 2025, hotels are not just places to stay—they are becoming destinations in their own right for food lovers. High-profile chefs are partnering with hotels to create world-class dining experiences that attract travelers for the food alone.
This new Las Vegas Strip hotel boasts over 30 restaurants, offering exclusive menus from renowned chefs. For an intimate experience, guests can dine at a sushi restaurant with a 12-seat counter, adding a layer of exclusivity to the culinary offerings. Other exceptional dining destinations include ROMEO Napoli in Italy and Susana Balbo Winemaker’s House in Argentina.
5.JOMO Travel (Joy of Missing Out)
In contrast to FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), JOMO (Joy of Missing Out) embraces the idea of unplugging and seeking peace and solitude. Travelers are opting for private vacation rentals that allow them to disconnect and recharge, away from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
This historic estate near Edinburgh offers seclusion, tranquility, and a perfect setting for those seeking a digital detox. With cozy interiors and sprawling grounds, it's the ideal escape for those craving privacy. Other JOMO escapes include waterfront homes in Bend, Oregon, and luxury domes in Kennebunkport, Maine.
6.The Phenomena-List
Bucket-list experiences are taking on a new twist with the rise of phenomenon-based travel. From natural light shows to rare wildlife migrations, 2025 is expected to be the year of unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime experiences tied to natural phenomena.
In the Great Smoky Mountains, the annual phenomenon of synchronous fireflies creates a mesmerizing natural light show, attracting nature lovers and photographers alike. Other must-see natural phenomena include bioluminescent plankton in Vero Beach, Florida, and the "Black Sun" starling murmurations in Denmark.
7.Set-Jetting
Fans of popular shows and movies are taking the concept of set-jetting to new heights, traveling to locations made famous by their favorite TV series or films. This trend sees travelers choosing destinations featured in media to step into their favorite on-screen worlds.
The release of 'The Real Housewives of Dubai' saw a 30% increase in searches for Dubai, while destinations like Montana and Wyoming continue to attract fans of ‘Yellowstone,’ and South Africa is drawing fans of ‘One Piece.’
8.One-Click Trips
Social media is increasingly shaping travel decisions, with influencers and content creators curating entire travel experiences that can be booked with a simple swipe. These one-click trips streamline the planning process, making it easier for spontaneous travelers to embark on adventures.
Example: Creator-Curated Getaways
Whether it's a boutique hotel in Tulum or an adventure-filled trip to Iceland, travelers can now book curated travel experiences directly through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This trend makes booking travel faster, more accessible, and tailored to individual preferences.