2026 is looking like an interesting year for travel. With uncertainty around the world and rising fuel costs, it’s hard to say exactly what will happen, but there are a few patterns that accommodation providers might want to keep an eye on. 

How Guest Behaviour Might Shift 

When travel gets a bit more expensive or unpredictable, guests often adjust their plans: 

• Staycations could be more popular. Some guests might choose to holiday closer to home as travel costs increase and some destinations become less attractive. 

• Shorter journeys. Breaks that don’t require long drives could be more appealing. 

• Activity-rich destinations. Places with plenty to do locally might be prioritised.  

• Midweek or off-peak stays. Price-conscious guests might look beyond weekends. Google says 76% of their travel users are date flexible.  

• Shorter, more frequent trips. Instead of one long holiday, some guests might take a few shorter breaks. These breaks are also likely to require a shorter journey. 

These aren’t guaranteed trends, but they’re worth thinking about based on what we’ve seen during other times of travel uncertainty. 

Practical Steps for You 

Even in uncertain times, there are ways to make your property appealing: 

1. Show Off Your Area 

• Highlight local attractions, walks, food spots, and hidden gems on social media or your website 

• Share experiences that don’t require a long travel 

• Help guests see your property as a great base for a memorable stay 

2. Make Getting There Easy 

• Mention public transport links, cycle routes, or walkable areas 

• Share tips to make travel simpler or more affordable 

3. Keep Things Flexible 

• Offer midweek deals or small discounts for longer stays 

• Review minimum stay rules; even small tweaks can help bookings 

• Make cancellation policies and booking options clear to reassure guests 

4. Stay in Touch with Past Guests 

• A friendly email or offer can remind them why they loved staying  

• Position your property as a familiar, trusted choice for their next trip, whether they’re local or coming from further afield  

Looking Ahead 

No one knows exactly how 2026 will play out, but a few things tend to hold true when travel feels uncertain: 

• Guests value flexibility 

• Some (more) bookings will be made at the last minute 

• People still want enjoyable, memorable stays 

The key is to stay adaptable and focus on what makes your property and area special.

Final Thought 

Uncertainty doesn’t mean fewer bookings; it just means travel plans might look a little different, i.e. shorter bookings made closer to arrival. 

By staying flexible, making things easy for guests, and highlighting the experiences you offer, you can navigate the year with confidence and maybe even find new opportunities along the way.