Trend 1: Multigenerational Travel: Everyone’s Coming Along! 

Multigenerational travel continues to grow in popularity in 2026. According to Skyscanner's 2026 Travel Trends Report, based on a survey of 1,000 Swiss travelers, many families are planning multigenerational vacations that bring together grandparents, parents, and children.

The desire to spend quality time together is at the heart of this trend. Rather than trying to squeeze as many attractions as possible into a short trip, families are choosing to slow down, create lasting memories, and share meaningful experiences. Strengthening family relationships and sharing travel costs are also among the key reasons why multigenerational travel continues to grow in popularity.

The focus is no longer on luxury or packed itineraries, but on togetherness, meaningful conversations, and moments that bring generations closer together.

Trend 2: “Edu-Ventures”: Learning While Traveling

Creating memories and expanding your horizons at the same time: more and more families are trading lazy days by the pool for immersive learning experiences. In 2026, travel isn’t just about switching off. It’s about discovering new places and cultures, connecting with others, and growing together.

According to Road Scholar, “edu-ventures” are booming. One standout is so-called “roots travel,” where families visit places tied to their heritage or cultural identity. Others opt for immersive programs that go beyond sightseeing and dive deep into local traditions, cuisine, and history. 

This shift – from passive tourism to active cultural experiences – reflects a desire for authenticity and shared learning. Whether it’s cooking with local ingredients in Southeast Asia or exploring Indigenous traditions in Canada, edu-ventures offer unforgettable learning moments that go far beyond the classroom. 

Trend 3: Slow Travel & Nature Escapes: Less Is More

When traveling with children, less is often more. More and more families are choosing to slow down by avoiding packed itineraries in favor of longer stays in one place, more time in nature, and days without fixed plans. This growing trend is often referred to as JOMO – the Joy of Missing Out – embracing the idea of stepping away from the pressure to do more and instead enjoying the present moment.

Dr. Christa Relly, physician at the Travel Clinic UZH, also emphasizes that children especially benefit from a slower pace of travel. Rather than trying to squeeze as many sights as possible into a short trip, families are encouraged to take regular breaks and allow plenty of time for children to play, explore, and simply settle into their surroundings.

Even long-distance travel can embrace the principles of slow travel. A wonderful example comes from our colleague Barbara Bichsel. In her episode Wanderlust Chronicles, she shares the story of her family's journey through Namibia, where they booked only their first and last night's accommodation in advance. Everything else unfolded spontaneously along the way. With thoughtful preparation, the right equipment, and an open mindset, they were able to embrace the unexpected and rediscover the joy of spontaneity. No packed schedule, no overplanning. Just being present.

Read more about Barbara's journey through Namibia here.

Trend 4: Wellness-Focused Family Retreats: Screen-Free Holidays

In a hyper-connected world where everything is shared online, screen-free family retreats have become a much-needed breath of fresh air. 

In 2026, more families are choosing holidays that center on wellbeing, rest, and mindfulness. Picture yoga with a mountain view, forest bathing, nature-based play for kids, and shared meals without distractions. Parents can finally relax, children learn to be present, and everyone slows down together. 

The pandemic has changed our understanding of health, not just physically, but emotionally and mentally. Hotels and retreats are responding with offerings that appeal to all generations: family spa areas, guided mindfulness walks, tech-free zones, and calming activities that help everyone recharge. 

We’re learning to value what feels good over what just looks good on Instagram. That shift is changing how we travel as families in 2026. 

Trend 5: Off the Beaten Path: Fewer Crowds, More Discovery

In 2026, more families are choosing unusual, less touristy destinations - not in spite of their kids, but because of them. Families with school-aged children often need to travel during peak holiday seasons. That’s the perfect chance to get creative. 

Need an example? In one of our recent “Wanderlust Chronicles” episodes, our colleague Seraina Rüegger shared her family trip to Uzbekistan. With its stunning Silk Road architecture, warm hospitality, and rich history, it was a trip full of curiosity and discovery. 

Find out more about Seraina’s trip to Uzbekistan here. 

Choosing less crowded destinations often leads to deeper cultural encounters and more relaxed experiences. From the Baltics to the Balkans, from Georgia to Guatemala, the world is full of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered as a family. 

Trend 6: Entertainment Travel: When Pop Culture Inspires the Trip 

In 2026, “entertainment travel” is taking the spotlight. Families are planning their holidays around what they love, be it a concert, a theme park, a film location, or a sports event. It’s less about well-known destinations, and more about those that hold personal meaning. 

When people travel to the filming locations of their favorite shows or movies, it’s called “set-jetting.” Families are getting in on the trend, whether it’s the dreamy Sicilian hotel from The White Lotus, the Harry Potter Studios in London, or the cozy Hobbit huts in New Zealand. These are destinations worth crossing borders for. 

And it’s not just the kids who are excited. Parents are just as eager, whether they’re attending a concert with their teenagers or taking a family trip to the Stanley Cup Final.  What matters most is sharing the joy and the excitement together. 

Trend 7: Sustainable, Slow Travel: On the Road with Responsibility

Travel is a gift, and more and more families are recognizing that. 

Sustainability remains a key value in travel for 2026. For families, that means finding new, responsible ways to explore. From train rides and ferry crossings to staycations and eco-friendly accommodations, the focus is shifting from “as much as possible” to “as meaningful as possible”. 

And the best part? The kids are learning, too. It’s about showing them that adventure doesn’t have to cost the Earth (quite literally...) and teaching them early that their carbon footprint should ideally be as small as their shoe size. 

Many rail companies now offer family compartments, kid-friendly services, and discounts. Ferries often have play areas, cabins, and, with a bit of luck, dolphins visible from the deck. Slower travel creates more space to talk, play, learn, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. 

Whether near or far, planned or spontaneous: family travel in 2026 is as diverse as families themselves. 
What unites them is the desire for shared experiences and moments that bring them closer together. 

References

SRF – Reisetrends 2026: Wo und wie die Schweiz Ferien macht
Skyscanner – Reisetrends
Family Travel Association – Making the Most of the Multi-Generational Travel Trend
Road Scholar – 2025 vs. 2024 Travel Trends
Business Traveller – Travel Trends: Back to the Roots
My Journal Courier – No Wi-Fi, No Problem: Hike-In Lodges Give Digital Detox