Expedia Group recently unveiled the “Unpack” report, which reveals the top travel trends for 2025. Based on data from platforms such as Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo, and a global survey of 25,000 travelers, the report highlights significant changes in the tourist behavior, focusing on new preferences, emerging destinations and the impact of social networks on travel choices.
Detour Destinations: Exploring the Unexplored
One of the strongest trends for 2025 is so-called diversion destinations. These are alternative, less touristy destinations that travelers are including in their plans, often in combination with more popular destinations. According to the Expedia report, 63% of travelers indicate they are likely to visit a detour destination on their next trip, looking for less crowded locations and more authentic experiences.
Goods Getaways: Travel in Search of Unique Products
Another growing trend, mainly influenced by TikTok, are Goods Getaways, or trips motivated by the purchase of specific products. Travelers are creating entire itineraries around products they want to buy, like viral chocolates from Dubai or beauty products from Korea.
The report shows that 39% of tourists visit local grocery stores on the go, and 44% look for local products as souvenirs. This trend reflects the growing interest in authentic experiences, where car rental in less touristy destinations can be an advantage, allowing greater flexibility to explore local shops and markets.
Era All Inclusive: Generation Z’s New Favorite
All-inclusive hotels are increasingly attracting Generation Z, who value peaceful and economical stays. A third of this generation’s travelers said their perception of all-inclusive hotels has improved, and 42% consider these properties to be their favorite accommodation choice.
The convenience and simplicity of booking (39%) and the luxury offered by these hotels (38%) are the main reasons that attract travelers. For the rent-a-car sector, this trend can be taken advantage of by offering packages that combine car rentals with stays at all-inclusive resorts, ensuring that travelers can explore their surroundings with comfort and flexibility.
Gastronomic Experiences: A Decisive Factor in Choosing a Hotel
Gastronomy is increasingly a decisive factor when choosing accommodation. According to the Expedia report, positive reviews for restaurants, chefs and bars increased 40% year-over-year on Hotels.com.
For almost a third of travelers, good room service is a strong reason to choose a particular hotel, and 31% say that restaurant tables reserved exclusively for guests would be their main reason for returning.
JOMO: Reconnection and Relaxation Travel
The concept of JOMO (“Joy of Missing Out”) is gaining popularity among travelers seeking relaxing getaways and reconnecting with nature or themselves. Around 62% of tourists say that this type of travel reduces stress and anxiety, while almost half indicate that it provides more quality time with friends and family.
Top amenities sought after by JOMO travelers include pools, gardens, hot tubs, and porches with tranquil views. Renting a car to explore rural and isolated locations can be a perfect solution for those looking for this type of reconnection experience, offering mobility and access to more remote destinations.
Phenomena List: Searching for Natural Wonders
Natural phenomena such as eclipses and northern lights continue to attract travelers who are willing to travel long distances to experience these events. The Expedia study revealed that 61% of tourists want to see the Northern Lights, and 30% are interested in geological phenomena such as volcanoes and hot springs.
Private holiday homes, located in remote areas, are the ideal choice for tourists who want to enjoy these events with a privileged view.
Set-Jetting: The Influence of Cinema on Destination Choices
The trend of set-jetting, where travelers choose their destinations based on popular series and films, is growing. Two-thirds of tourists said they researched or booked trips inspired by films or series they watched, representing a 16% increase from the previous year.
Expedia’s report for 2025 highlights the need to adapt to new trends, offering travelers more flexibility, personalization and access to unique experiences.