As we head into 2026, Canadian travellers are looking for trips that are more meaningful, more flexible, and more aligned with their values. New technologies, evolving travel behaviours, and global events are shaping how—and why—we explore the world.
Whether you’re a seasoned snowbird, an adventure seeker, or planning your next family getaway, understanding these emerging trends can help you travel smarter and stay protected along the way. Here are the top five travel trends that will shape the year ahead.
1. Sustainable Travel Becomes a Priority
Sustainable and responsible travel is no longer a niche preference. In 2026, travellers are intentionally choosing destinations and experiences that reduce environmental impact and benefit local communities. From carbon-neutral excursions to eco-certified accommodations, sustainability is influencing nearly every travel decision.
Before booking, review the activities included in your itinerary—especially those involving wildlife, outdoor adventure, or remote-region travel—to ensure your Emergency Medical Insurance provides the right coverage.
Destinations ideas for 2026
- Costa Rica for rainforest conservation tours and eco-lodges
- New Zealand for low-impact outdoor adventure
- Iceland for geothermal-powered cities and nature protection initiatives
- Haida Gwaii, Canada for Indigenous-led tourism and cultural learning
2. Flexible Travel and Long-Stay Trips Continue to Grow
Remote work and hybrid work have made travel more fluid than ever. In 2026, “flexible travel” is expanding, with many Canadians choosing longer stays abroad while balancing work, study, or lifestyle changes. Countries like Portugal, Spain, and Japan are broadening long-stay or digital nomad visa options, making it easier to spend several weeks—or even months—exploring a new culture.
If you’re planning a longer trip, make sure your insurance covers the full duration of your stay. Multi Trip Annual coverage can help ensure you’re protected, even with multiple trips throughout the year.
Destinations ideas for 2026
- Lisbon, Portugal, a top choice for digital nomads
- Madeira, Portugal, for slow island living and remote-worker communities
- Chiang Mai, Thailand, known for affordability and long-stay comfort
3. Experiential and Immersive Travel Takes Centre Stage
Travellers are increasingly prioritizing deeper, memorable experiences over traditional sightseeing. When planning immersive trips, look closely at how your itinerary blends cultural, outdoor, and hands-on experiences.
Guided workshops, multi-day treks, or rural excursions are increasingly popular, often booked through platforms like Airbnb Experiences, which offer locally guided activities that are easy to tailor to your interests. When planning, review what’s included and ensure your travel insurance aligns with the type of experiences you’ll be participating in.
If you’re an adrenaline seeking type when travelling, consider TuGo’s Sports and Activities Coverage add-on for extra peace of mind.
Destinations ideas for 2026
- Japan for culinary workshops, tea ceremonies, and cultural immersion
- Peru for multi-day trekking, weaving workshops, and rural homestays
- Tuscany, Italy for farm-to-table tours and cooking experiences
- Kenya for community-led wildlife conservation programs
4. Wellness Travel Expands Beyond the Spa
In 2026, wellness travel continues to evolve, focusing on both physical and mental wellbeing. More Canadians are booking trips designed around recovery, self-care, or personal growth. While spa retreats and hot springs remain popular, travellers are also embracing meditation retreats, sleep-recovery programs, cycling camps, and outdoor fitness escapes.
Destinations ideas for 2026
- Sedona, Arizona for energy retreats and nature-based healing
- Bali, Indonesia for yoga, meditation, and wellness resorts
- Banff, Canada for hot springs, spas, and mountain escapes
- Swiss Alps for luxury spa stays and high-altitude wellness programs
5. Major Events and Cultural Celebrations Drive Travel Demand
In 2026, the Milano-Cortina Winter Olympics, take place across northern Italy, and many Canadians are showing strong interest in attending the Games—not only to support Team Canada but also to enjoy the blend of alpine landscapes, cultural heritage, and world-class sporting events.
The excitement doesn’t stop there. The FIFA World Cup across North America is another major draw in 2026, along global festivals and cultural celebrations that continue to influence travel plans worldwide. With high demand during major events, early planning is essential to coordinating transportation, accommodations, and event tickets.
Destinations ideas for 2026
- Milan, Italy the central hub of Olympic events and cultural excitement
- Vancouver, Canada a host city for 2026 FIFA World Cup matches with coastal adventure appeal
- Mexico City, Mexico a FIFA World Cup destination with rich history, cuisine, and vibrant nightlife
- Tokyo, Japan renowned for seasonal festivals, cultural celebrations, and year-round event tourism
As travel evolves, Canadians are embracing experiences that are more sustainable, more meaningful, and more aligned with personal values and lifestyle. Whether you’re planning a long-stay adventure, attending a global sporting event like the Milano-Cortina Olympics, or booking a wellness getaway, you can explore the world confidently and enjoy everything 2026 has in store.
Safe travels in 2026,
Marie
