7 Travel Trends to Watch in 2018: Digital Detoxes, Drones, Dating Destinations, and Beyond
2017 captivated us with goat yoga, celebrity-packed airline safety videos, and the cozy Scandi trend of hygge. What innovative travel fads and ideas will define 2018?
Drawing from industry insights, we've outlined seven predictions poised to make headlines. From plausible shifts to imaginative possibilities, these trends highlight evolving traveler preferences.
Digital Detox 2.0
The wellness boom—yoga retreats, turmeric lattes, and coconut oil remedies—escalates in 2018, offering sanctuaries from 24/7 news cycles and urban hustle. Guided forest bathing emerges as the premier weekend escape, silent spas provide tranquility for stressed city dwellers, and historic pilgrimages surge as travelers seek spiritual renewal. Expect zero device distractions in these serene havens.
Reality check: Health trends promoting balance are invaluable, though nature walks don't require premium guides. With hectic lives, screen-free time amid greenery will rise—designer gear optional.
Second Cities Take Center Stage
Travel transcends social media flexing, yet unique snapshots spark envy. Beyond Paris, New York, and London, lesser-known cities and regions draw savvy explorers seeking fresh, photogenic perspectives in 2018.
Reality check: As 'overtourism' strains icons like Venice, redirecting to secondary spots eases pressure while offering authentic, less-crowded adventures—a sustainable win for travelers and destinations.
Extreme Staycations
Affordable, advanced VR transforms homebodies into virtual explorers. Don VR headsets for immersive day trips or weekends in exotic locales, enhanced by smart-home climate control, scented diffusers, and destination-matched meals.
Reality check: VR previews destinations but fuels real travel. Brands like Marriott and Thomas Cook already leverage it, with 360° streaming enabling shared digital journeys.
Travel Flings Turn Serious
Tinder's role as a local guide expands, but resorts, hotels, and islands launch romance-focused escapes inspired by Love Island and The Bachelor, prioritizing soulmate connections.
Reality check: Apps aid dating, yet serendipity shines on the road—from beaches to museums. Stay open-eyed; phones distract from chance encounters.
Drones Everywhere
Ditching selfie sticks, compact drones proliferate as must-have gadgets, capturing epic aerial shots but risking site disruptions in 2018.
Reality check: Bans at landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Stonehenge signal rising restrictions for safety and security. Until simpler tech arrives, adoption tempers.
Mystery Trips Intensify
2017's surprise getaways evolve: unknown dates, companions, even 'kidnap' simulations for ultimate unpredictability and hassle-free thrills.
Reality check: Novelty endures, but extremes fade. Planning's anticipation enhances joy, whether solo or agent-assisted.
Convenient Carry-On Meals
With budget long-haul flights ditching free meals, apps like Uber Eats offer gate-pickup, fly-safe options; some airlines add self-service galleys.
Reality check: Crew logistics limit feasibility; cold preps or picnics remain practical for savvy flyers.
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