Airbnb : 2026 summer travel trends revealed

Published: 2026-05-08 09:07:21 ET ABNB

Published on 05/08/2026 at 09:07 am EDT

This summer's travel is shaped by three things: playcations, nostalgia, and the allure of what's close to home. We've seen a notable increase in domestic travel this summer in the US-travelers are exploring nearby destinations to enjoy their favorite active hobbies, while hidden gems are offering budget-savvy explorers experiences at a fraction of the cost.1 Globally, Gen Z is reimagining the iconic destinations of 2016 through a fresh lens, and gearing up to experience the FIFA World Cup 2026TM fever.

Action-packed adult "playcations" are defining summer travel in the US, with travelers seeking out nearby destinations to partake in their favorite activities. Listings near golf courses, lakefronts, and surf spots have seen some of the highest booking growth, reflecting a growing desire to center travel around play and adventure.2 This summer, surfers, golfers, sailors and boaters are putting these domestic adventure destinations on the map:3

Travelers are looking for short-haul escapes, with a third of people choosing to stay closer to home.4 Airbnb offers access to affordable retreats across the US in hidden gem destinations that deliver similar character, natural beauty, and experiences as popular summer spots. It's an option travelers are open to-86 percent of travelers, and 94 percent of Gen Z travelers-say they're interested in rural getaways, according to a recent Focaldata survey.5 From the rocky shores of Maine to the mountain passes of New Mexico, there are under-the-radar towns where the average nightly rates are under $250:6

The destinations that defined Millennial travel in 20167 are making a powerful Gen Z comeback-but this time, they're being rediscovered through a whole new lens. Fueled by a wave of nostalgia travel, Gen Z travelers aren't just returning to Millennial classics, but uncovering lesser-known pockets within them this summer. From Thailand, to Spain, these trending destinations are seeing an over 20 percent growth by Gen Z travelers and are inspiring a new generation of travel:8

With just over a month to go until the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off across North America, the tournament is set to be the biggest event ever on Airbnb with millions of fans preparing for the trip of a lifetime. For fans looking to experience the FIFA World Cup 2026 through a local lens without breaking the bank, 75 percent of available stays cost under $5009 a night and many experiences run less than $100 per person. To help travelers kick-start their plans, we're highlighting available stays in some of the most affordable host city neighborhoods, as well as wallet-friendly, unique foodie experiences to add to their itineraries:

Disclaimer

Airbnb Inc. published this content on May 08, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on May 08, 2026 at 13:06 UTC.