Ready to plan a trip with serious wow-factor?

Long haul travel is changing fast, and 2026 is bringing a fresh wave of trends that are already shaping the best places to visit next year. Whether you’re searching for cheap long haul flights, luxury holidays or a new long-haul destination for winter sun, there’s plenty to get excited about.

Here’s what’s big for UK travellers in 2026.

Work from anywhere? Still rising

Remote-working getaways are set to be one of the biggest long haul travel trends of 2026. UK travellers are choosing destinations like Bali, Costa Rica, Dubai, and Thailand, where digital nomad visas, long-stay packages and great Wi-Fi make everyday life feel like a holiday.

Imagine logging off, then heading straight to a local market, a rooftop bar or a sunset beach walk. It’s productivity with a view, and it’s becoming the new normal.

Cultural immersion? A top priority

Travellers are choosing authentic experiences over fast sightseeing. Cooking classes in Thailand, art districts in Singapore, temples in Kyoto, festivals in Jaipur and local craft markets in Oaxaca are now part of what people search for when looking at long haul holidays 2026.

If you’re after meaningful cultural travel, these destinations are some of the top searched places to visit in 2026 from the UK.

Sustainable escapes? Growing fast

Eco-conscious holidays are no longer niche. Travellers want long haul destinations that offer nature, sustainability and adventure without harming the planet.

Popular choices include:

• Borneo for rainforest adventures
• Patagonia for trekking
• Costa Rica for eco-retreats
• Mauritius for sustainable beach resorts
• Sri Lanka for wildlife and culture

More hotels are using renewable energy, cutting plastic and supporting local communities, making sustainable travel a major trend for 2026 holidays.

Bespoke luxury? Bigger than ever

Luxury holidays in 2026 are all about personalised experiences. Rather than standard all inclusive holidays, travellers want handpicked itineraries, private tours and exclusive stays.

Top trending luxury destinations from the UK include:

• Maldives – overwater villas and private islands
• Dubai – high-end city breaks and world-class resorts
• Mauritius – boutique beach escapes
• Australia – luxury wildlife and coastal retreats

If you’re searching for long haul luxury holidays, 2026 gives you endless room to tailor your experience.

Long-haul family travel? On the up

Families are returning to long haul destinations with better planning, better value and better child-friendly options.

Top trending long haul family holiday destinations for 2026:

• USA (Florida, New York, California)
• South Africa for safe safari lodges
• Thailand for family-friendly resorts
• Australia for wildlife and beaches
• Dubai for theme parks and all inclusive breaks

Resorts are offering activities for every generation, making it easier for families to travel together and still enjoy some independence.

Food experiences? Travellers want more

Culinary travel is booming. UK travellers are searching for holidays that mix adventure with great food.

Top foodie destinations for 2026 include:

• Vietnam – street food tours
• Argentina – wine tasting and steakhouses
• Japan – sushi, ramen and traditional markets
• Mexico – authentic tacos and mezcal tastings

These trips turn ordinary holidays into flavour-packed adventures.

Wellness holidays? A strong favourite

Wellness breaks are now among the top searches for long haul holidays from the UK. Travellers want escapes that genuinely help them reset.

Trending wellness destinations for 2026:

• Bali – yoga retreats and detox stays
• St Lucia – spa and wellness escapes
• Thailand – holistic wellness resorts
• Sri Lanka – Ayurveda and coastal relaxation

It’s the perfect excuse to unwind somewhere beautiful.

Tech-smart travel? Very 2026

More travellers are choosing destinations and hotels that use digital features like app-based room controls, mobile planning tools and seamless transport technology.

Destinations such as Singapore, Dubai, Japan, and South Korea are leading in tech-friendly travel, making them top picks for hassle-free trips.

Hidden adventures? Trending everywhere

More UK holidaymakers want adventure holidays that go beyond the obvious.

Top trending adventure destinations for 2026:

• South Africa – hot-air ballooning, safaris and scenic coastlines
• Ecuador – volcanic trekking
• Maldives – remote diving spots
• Vietnam – jungle adventures and coastal hikes
• New Zealand – outdoor thrills and road trips

These lesser-known long haul destinations offer exclusivity, nature and something a bit different from typical holiday hotspots.

Planning your 2026 holiday?

From sustainable travel and digital nomad escapes to luxury holidays, adventure breaks and cultural hotspots, 2026 is full of long haul destinations that UK travellers can’t wait to explore.

If you’re already dreaming about your next escape, our Travel Specialists can help you plan a long haul holiday that fits your style and taps into the biggest trends of 2026.

Wherever you’re heading next, we make it easy.