Expedia Group has released its Unpack ’25 report, highlighting the hottest travel trends for 2025. Based on proprietary insights from 25,000 travelers across its platforms — Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo — the report identifies eight key trends that will shape next year’s travel experiences.
From Detour Destinations to the All-Inclusive Era, here is a breakdown of the travel trends expected to be huge in 2025.
1. Detour Destinations
Tourist favorites like Rome, London and New York will still draw visitors from all over the world, but in 2025, travellers will also be eager to explore Detour Destinations. A significant 63 percent of vacationers are expected to incorporate a Detour into their plans, such as a trip to Canmore while in Calgary, a visit to Reims during a stay in Paris, or an excursion to Fukuoka while in Tokyo.
If your travels take you to Florence, Italy, consider a Detour to the Chianti region, home to some of the world’s best wine and food. Make sure to stop by Castello di Verrazzano to sample their wines and balsamic vinegar, a gourmet lunch at Passo Dopo Passo Osteria in Riserva di Fizzano, and a visit to the Rocca delle Macie winery to visit their vineyards and indulge in a wine tasting paired with local specialties.
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2. Goods Getaways
Souvenir magnets and keychains aren’t going anywhere, but specialty goods and experiences are on the rise. Interestingly, 44 percent of travelers mentioned that they enjoy shopping for local products that aren’t available back home. Whether you bring home a bag of beans from a coffee tour in Costa Rica or learn how to make the perfect cup of matcha in Japan, each destination has unique offerings to explore.
If you’re planning a trip to Florence, Italy, and want to bring home a unique souvenir steeped in history, make sure to stop by Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. This renowned perfumery began as an apothecary in 1221 and truly flourished during the Renaissance, especially with the creation of their oldest fragrance, Acqua della Regina, which was famously gifted by Catherine de Medici to her husband, Henry II of Valois. Explore their expanding range of scents with the help of their knowledgeable concierges, and consider taking home a bottle of perfume, along with lovely decor items like candles or beauty products such as soaps and lotions.
3. Hotel Restaurant Renaissance
Hotel restaurants are no longer just a convenience or a last resort; they’re actually factoring into people’s decisions on where to stay while travelling. Hotels.com reports that positive hotel restaurant, chef and bar reviews have increased by 40 percent in 2024 compared to last year. With features like locally-inspired seasonal menus, Michelin-starred chefs and breathtaking views, the Hotel Restaurant Renaissance is a welcome trend for 2025. Experience the rebirth in Toronto at the Westin Harbour Castle’s Don Alfonso 1890, recipient of a coveted Michelin star in 2023. Or, if you’re in Florence, Italy, La Buona Novella at Grand Hotel Minerva is a three-time winner of the prestigious Cappello dell’Espresso Award.
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4. JOMO Travel
Move over, FOMO … it’s all about JOMO in 2025! JOMO is the “joy of missing out,” and JOMO Travel means doing less on vacation to escape the fast pace of everyday life by escaping to a quaint cabin or tranquil beach house to relax, reconnect and recharge. 62 percent of travellers stated that they seek JOMO travel to help reduce stress and anxiety. Whether you select a secluded lakeside lodge in the Canadian wilderness or a country estate in the Tuscan countryside, JOMO trips are all about picturesque gardens, sprawling porches for reading and afternoon naps, and quality time unwinding in a private pool or hot tub.
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5. The Phenomena-List
The April 2024 solar eclipse had travellers booking private vacation homes along the path of totality, and getaways centered on naturally-occurring phenomena will continue in 2025. 80 percent of travellers want to stay in a place that offers “prime viewing for these natural wonders,” making vacation homes in rural or secluded locales the perfect option. The Northern Lights tops the list of phenomena that people will travel to see, whether venturing to Yellowknife here in Canada or Reykjavik, Iceland. What’s on the Phenomena-List for 2025? Among the top destinations are the Bay of Fundy for the highest tides in the world, Phillip Island near Melbourne, Australia for the penguin parade, Hokkaido, Japan for the ballet of Japanese cranes, and Arches National Park in Utah for stargazing at the International Dark Sky Park.
See also: The Best Places and Times of Year to See the Northern Lights
6. 2025 Set-Jetting Forecast
Travellers are increasingly seeking vacation ideas from both movies and television shows, a phenomenon referred to as Set-Jetting. This travel trend was first recognized by Expedia Group in 2022 and has been on the rise ever since. Currently, two-thirds of travelers report that films, streaming platforms, and TV series have played a role in their choice of destinations, marking a 16 percent increase since 2023. According to the 2025 Set-Jetting Forecast, popular destinations influenced by entertainment include the Highlands of Scotland (thanks to The Traitors), rugged Montana and Wyoming (courtesy of Yellowstone), and alluring Dubai (inspired by The Real Housewives of Dubai).
Related: The Most Popular Cottage Destinations Across Canada
7. One-Click Trips
Influencers we trust have made a significant mark on our fashion and beauty choices, and now they’re stepping into the world of travel shopping. According to the report, 50 percent of consumers expressed a desire to book trips they discovered on social media, but many felt hindered by time limitations and the complexities involved. To address this, Expedia is introducing innovative “shoppable storefronts” in the travel industry, curated by social media creators, trendsetters, and brands. This One-Click Trips trend makes it easier for travelers to plan their dream vacations inspired by their favorite influencers.
8. All-Inclusive Era
Gen Z has entered its All-Inclusive Era, fueled by a desire for hassle-free accommodations and a good deal. The perception of all-inclusive hotels has changed for the better among a third of Gen Z travellers, and nearly half prefer an all-inclusive resort over an a la carte property. What has led to this surge in popularity among young jetsetters? 41 percent of Gen Z cites minimal stress, 39 percent likes the ease of booking and 38 percent think all-inclusive properties feel luxurious.
To learn more about these 2025 travel trends, download the full Expedia Group Unpack ’25 report here.
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