Travel trends in 2020 - and how we think about them

What travel trends will we see in 2020? Booking.com has taken a peek into the crystal ball (or well, asked thousands of people) and come up with eight trends they can sense in travel next year. Here are the trends, and our thoughts on them.

Survey on travel trends in 2020

Booking.com conducted a survey of 22,000 adults who have travelled in the last 12 months or plan to travel in the next 12 months. A total of 500 respondents were from Sweden and the rest were from other parts of Europe, Asia, Oceania and South and North America.

8 Travel trends 2020

Based on the survey responses, Booking.com has compiled eight travel trends for 2020. Here are the 8 travel trends - and our thoughts on them.

Travel trend 1: New cities

Over-tourism is a growing problem, and cities like Venice and Barcelona are negatively affected by the large influx of tourists. Many travellers want to help reduce over-tourism and improve the environment. As a result, tourists are looking for new cities to visit and 60% say they would be interested in a service that recommends destinations where tourism can have a positive impact on the local community.

• That's how we think: It's really time for this! There are so many great places - we don't all have to be crowded in the same places. These are the places we are always looking for!
• Our proposal: Visit beautiful Tartu in Estonia

Travel trend 2: New technology services

New technology services will increasingly guide our travelling, according to the 2020 Travel Trends survey. Many people say they are open to receiving tips from technology services, which entice them to do something completely new on holiday. Many also want to be able to plan their holiday activities with the help of a handy app.

• That's how we think: New technology services and apps will certainly increase. Then it's a matter of finding your favourites, which you can actually use.
• Our proposal: Try some new travel apps

Travel trend 3: Travel slowly

According to the survey, many people want to travel more slowly in 2020, partly for environmental reasons and partly to experience more of the journey itself. Many are also interested in travelling in alternative ways, perhaps by bike, tram, sleigh, boat, on foot or on a classic train such as the Orient Express.

• That's how we think: The trend towards hiking, exploring nature and travelling by train is clear. Camping can also be a slow and more environmentally friendly way of travelling.
• Our proposal: Take a fascinating train journey in Europe

Travel trend 4: Many experiences

In 2020, travellers don't want a single theme for their trip, but instead want to pack their trip with lots of different experiences. This is why destinations that offer a wide variety of sights and activities are becoming popular.

• That's how we think: It's interesting that we want to travel slowly while experiencing as much as possible in one go. But maybe it can be combined - or are they different types of travellers?
• Our proposal: Discover animals, nature, culture and beaches in Sri Lanka.

Travel trend 5: Bring your pet

Among pet owners, 42% say they choose destinations based on where they can take their four-legged friend. One can therefore expect a greater focus on pet-friendly destinations and accommodation.

• That's how we think: It seems that more and more hotels (and restaurants!) want to be pet-friendly. Plus, it's perfect to bring pets in a motorhome!
• Our proposal: Travelling with a dog or cat - what are the rules?

Travel trend 6: Travelling with grandchildren

Three out of four grandparents say that spending time with their grandchildren makes them feel younger and that parents may need some time for themselves. As older people are also keen to stay healthy and active, many trips with grandchildren can be expected.

• That's how we think: We occasionally see couples in motorhomes with their grandchildren (although not very often).
• Our proposal: Holidaying with grandchildren in Germany

Travel trend 7: Focus on food

Seven out of ten say they want to try local food on holiday. Many have a strong focus on food experiences, checking social media for tips on good restaurants.

• That's how we think: We think food is a big part of the travelling experience. When travelling, we always look for local food experiences - whether it's fine dining or street food.
• Our proposal: Try really good restaurants in Riga

Travel trend 8: Long journeys after retirement

Many people plan to retire early, but it's not to settle down, but rather to live out their adventurous side. Almost half plan to be more adventurous when choosing their post-retirement travel.

• That's how we think: We meet lots of lively and adventurous pensioners who are travelling, so this is certainly true. Especially since many of them are travelling by motorhome!
• Our proposal: Motorhome holidays in southern Europe

What are your thoughts on travel trends in 2020?

What are your thoughts on these 2020 travel trends? Do you think they are accurate? Do you see any other trends that were missed here? Do you feel "trendy" yourself...?