The evolving landscape of travel is rarely static. Each year brings new influences and new ways of experiencing the world. The trends predicted for 2025 offer a clear illustration of these ongoing changes, providing insight into the evolving motivations and preferences of the modern traveller. Here are seven trends that are expected to dominate the travel world this year.
1. Noctourism: An Exploration of the Night
A new term has emerged: “noctourism.” This refers to travel experiences that occur after dark. These include late-night visits to museums, explorations of bioluminescent environments, and the pursuit of the aurora borealis. The latter is expected to be particularly popular in 2025 due to increased solar activity predicted for the year.
Destinations such as Finnish Lapland, the Lofoten Islands in Norway, and even more northerly locales like Svalbard and Iceland are being recommended for this purpose. It appears some travelers find more appeal in the celestial displays of the night sky than in the familiar light of day.
2. Calmcations: The Search for Silence
The desire for tranquility during travel persists. “Calmcations,” focused on achieving a sense of calm and escape from the pressures of contemporary life, are expected to remain in demand. This is perhaps understandable, given the escalating levels of noise in urban environments, a concern addressed even by the World Health Organization. Some travel providers are now promoting “quiet escapes,” even incorporating noise monitoring into their offerings.
Also Read: 7 Practical Ways To Save Money While Travelling
3. AI: The Perfect Travel Companion
Technology continues to exert its influence on travel. Generative AI is being employed to create personalized itineraries, streamline logistics and baggage handling in airports. This may prove useful for those who find the planning process burdensome. AI is also finding its way into other aspects of the travel experience, such as hotel bedding designed to monitor sleep patterns.
While technology is clearly shaping the future of travel, there is evidence suggesting that some travelers still value more traditional forms of inspiration, such as physical brochures. A comforting thought for those of us who appreciate the tactile.
4. Romance and Travel: A Potential Confluence
The possibility of romantic encounters during travel has been highlighted as a potential trend. This is attributed, in part, to a reported decline in satisfaction with online dating. Whether this translates into a significant shift in travel behavior remains to be seen.
5. Off the Beaten Path: A Recurring Theme
The search for less-crowded destinations remains a consistent element in travel trends. The concept of “destination dupes”—alternative locations offering similar experiences to popular but overcrowded destinations—is being promoted. Less-visited areas, such as Uzbekistan and certain islands in East Africa, are being suggested as alternatives.
Also Read: Seven Must-Have Gadgets For Smoother Journeys
6. Climate Change: An Unavoidable Consideration
Climate Change Impacts Travel Itineraries: Rising temperatures in southern Europe are affecting travel patterns. “Coolcations” (trips to cooler regions), in northern European countries like Finland and Norway are becoming more common.
Scott Dunn reported a 26% increase in bookings to these regions in 2024 and anticipates further growth. The impact of climate change extends to wildlife tourism, with safari seasons adjusting to changing weather patterns.
7. Nostalgia Travel: A Look Backwards
Finally, there is the phenomenon of nostalgia travel. This involves revisiting places and experiences from the past, often from childhood. This may include returning to former holiday destinations or participating in experiences reminiscent of earlier times. It’s a curious human tendency, this desire to recapture what has been.
