Travelers Increase AI Use and Plan Higher Spending for 2026 Trips

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Survey respondents indicate stronger intent for both domestic and international travel in 2026, with 34 percent planning to allocate more budget to trips than in the previous year. Over half anticipate taking at least one additional journey, driven by pent-up demand and improved economic confidence among participants.

Artificial intelligence tools have gained traction in the planning process. Respondents report using AI assistants for itinerary suggestions, cost comparisons, and personalized recommendations at higher rates than in prior surveys. The trend aligns with broader shifts toward technology-assisted decision-making in hospitality and transportation sectors.

Italy has emerged as the top international destination for U.S. travelers surveyed, marking the first time it holds the leading position. Canada ranks second, followed by Mexico, France, and Spain. These choices reflect sustained interest in cultural and leisure experiences across Europe and North America, alongside proximity-driven options for shorter escapes.

Cruise and multigenerational travel appear among preferred formats, with participants citing shared experiences and value perceptions as key drivers. Concerns persist around health risks and potential trip disruptions, influencing choices of insurance coverage and flexible booking policies. The survey, conducted by International Medical Group, polled more than 1,000 customers to gauge forward-looking behaviors.

This outlook contrasts with recent data showing moderated international arrivals to certain U.S. gateways in 2025, including a 3 percent drop in foreign visitors to New York City. Domestic demand has offset some declines, supporting overall visitation figures near 65 million for the city last year. Broader industry recalibration includes hotel operators redirecting focus toward high-growth markets such as India while expanding capacity in select European locations.

Geopolitical factors, including ongoing tensions in the Middle East, have prompted route adjustments by airlines and altered demand patterns for regional tourism. Fuel price volatility adds further pressure on long-haul operations, yet survey participants maintain optimism for increased activity levels ahead.

Travel advisors report similar patterns in booking inquiries for 2026, with established European hotspots remaining prominent alongside emerging or diversified offerings. Shorter hotel stays and last-minute reservations have risen globally, with searches for one-night accommodations up 9 percent in recent periods compared with earlier baselines.

Airports and carriers continue adapting to seasonal peaks amid separate operational challenges, including staffing constraints at security checkpoints. The combination of consumer intent data and supply-side developments suggests sustained momentum in leisure segments despite external variables.

Travelers preparing 2026 itineraries benefit from early engagement with AI platforms and review of destination-specific advisories. Industry stakeholders monitor spending projections and booking lead times to align inventory with evolving preferences. No immediate policy shifts affect entry requirements for the highlighted top destinations.

The survey underscores resilience in travel demand even as segments face differentiated pressures from fuel costs, geopolitical events, and recovery dynamics. Multigenerational groups and cruise enthusiasts contribute to diversified growth signals across the sector. Further quarterly updates will refine visibility into actual booking conversions and realized expenditures.