UK travellers in 2026 are more curious, cautious, and value‑driven than ever. Rising costs, global uncertainty, and a growing appetite for meaningful experiences have shaped the questions people are asking before they book. Here are the most common travel questions UK travellers want answered this year and what they reveal about how we’re travelling.

Where can I travel that still feels affordable in 2026?

With the cost‑of‑living crisis still influencing decisions, affordability is the number‑one concern.

Travellers want to know:

"Which destinations offer the best value for money?"

In 2026, UK travellers are prioritising destinations where their money stretches further without compromising on experience. The best value destinations tend to offer:

• Lower daily costs for food, transport and activities
• Affordable accommodation, especially outside peak season
• Competitive flight prices from major UK airports
• Strong exchange rates against the pound

Great‑value regions for 2026 include parts of Eastern Europe, North Africa, and lesser‑known Mediterranean islands. Travellers are also choosing off‑season travel to traditionally expensive destinations to secure better deals.

"Are all‑inclusive holidays cheaper overall?"

For many travellers, the answer is yes... but with conditions.

All‑inclusive holidays can be cheaper when:

• Travelling as a family or group
• Visiting destinations where food and drink are typically expensive
• Travelling during school holidays, when package deals can beat DIY prices
• You want cost certainty with no surprises

However, DIY trips can still be cheaper in destinations with low local prices or when travelling off‑peak. The key is comparing the total cost, not just the headline price.

"How can I save on luggage, transfers, and peak‑season surcharges?"

With airlines and hotels adding more fees than ever, travellers are actively looking for ways to reduce extras. The most effective savings include:

Luggage

• Travel with hand luggage only where possible
• Share checked bags on group trips
• Weigh bags at home to avoid airport charges

Transfers

• Use public transport or pre‑booked shuttles instead of taxis
• Choose accommodation close to transport hubs
• Book group transfers to split the cost

Peak‑season surcharges

• Travel during shoulder seasons (May–June, September–October)
• Fly mid‑week instead of weekends
• Book early for school‑holiday dates, when prices rise fastest

These small adjustments can save travellers hundreds of pounds over the course of a trip.

"Is value‑led travel dominating every age group?"

From students to retirees, UK travellers are united by one priority: making their money go further. Rising living costs mean people want:

• Transparent pricing
• No hidden fees
• Trips that feel worth the investment
• Experiences that offer connection, culture and convenience

This shift is driving the popularity of group trips, curated travel clubs and all‑inclusive packages — all of which offer clarity, community and strong value.

What destinations are trending for 2026?

UK travellers want to know what’s new, exciting, and worth the hype.

The most common questions include:

“What are the top trending destinations this year?”

The biggest travel trends for 2026 fall into three categories: great value, new experiences, and wellness‑focused escapes. UK travellers are gravitating toward destinations that offer:

• Lower daily costs
• Beautiful natural landscapes
• A sense of discovery
• Good flight connections from the UK

Trending regions include:

• Albania – still one of Europe’s best value coastal destinations
• Montenegro – dramatic scenery, boutique hotels, and quieter beaches
• Japan – huge demand thanks to culture, food, and improved flight routes
• Vietnam – excellent value long‑haul with stunning landscapes
• Madeira & the Azores – nature‑first islands perfect for wellness travel

Travellers want places that feel exciting but still accessible.

“Where are people going instead of the usual hotspots?”

With traditional favourites like Spain, Italy and Greece becoming more expensive in peak season, travellers are looking for alternatives that offer the same sunshine without the price tag.

Popular swaps include:

• Instead of the Algarve → Albania
• Instead of the Greek Islands → Croatia’s lesser‑known islands
• Instead of Italy → Malta
• Instead of Barcelona → Porto
• Instead of the Canaries → Cape Verde

These destinations offer similar weather and scenery, but with fewer crowds and better value.

“What’s the next big European city break?”

City breaks are booming again, and travellers want somewhere that feels new!

The next big European city break contenders for 2026 include:

• Valencia, Spain – culture, beaches, food, and better value than Barcelona
• Ljubljana, Slovenia – eco‑friendly, charming, and perfect for a 2–3 day escape
• Kraków, Poland – still one of Europe’s most affordable cultural cities
• Porto, Portugal – wine, river views, and a relaxed vibe
• Tallinn, Estonia – medieval old town meets modern tech city
• Tirana, Albania – colourful, quirky, and rapidly rising in popularity

Travellers want city breaks that feel authentic, walkable, and good value and these cities deliver.

Conclusion

If you’re feeling inspired to explore somewhere new this year, RTC England is here to make travel feel a little easier. We share upcoming group trips, helpful insights and great‑value options so you can choose the experiences that suit you best.

No pressure, just a community of people who enjoy discovering new places together. If you’d like to stay in the loop, you’re always welcome to join us.