Short Getaways Surge: Long Weekends Become Prime Travel Time in 2026

More travelers are using long weekends for short, meaningful trips, with a 34% global increase in bookings for vacations of four days or less, especially among working adults aged 25 to 49, according to recent data from Trip.com Group.

Rising Popularity of Short Trips

Recent data from Trip.com Group indicates a significant shift in travel behavior, with long weekends increasingly being used for short vacations rather than rest at home. Globally, bookings for trips lasting four days or less have increased by 34% year on year. This trend is particularly strong in Europe, but is also evident in Asia and other regions.

The primary demographic driving this change is working adults aged 25 to 49, who account for more than half of all short trip bookings. These travelers are seeking to make the most of their public holidays by planning quick getaways, often using just one or two days of annual leave to extend their time off.

Popular Destinations for Short Escapes

During long weekends, travelers are choosing both domestic and international destinations for their short breaks. In Asia, cities such as Bangkok, Hong Kong, Seoul, and Taipei are among the top choices for quick trips. In Europe, Barcelona, Lisbon, London, and Paris are popular destinations for those seeking a brief escape.

Domestic travel remains a strong preference in certain countries. For example, travelers from China, Thailand, and the Philippines often choose cities like Chengdu, Bangkok, and Caticlan for short vacations.

Entertainment Tourism on the Rise

Entertainment tourism is also contributing to the increase in short trips. Many travelers are booking flights specifically to attend concerts and live events. Notable examples include K-pop concerts such as the Blackpink World Tour in Hong Kong and the SEVENTEEN World Tour in Singapore, which have attracted travelers from China and the Philippines. The Mayday #5525 Live Tour in Kuala Lumpur is another top attraction, particularly among Singaporean travelers.

Itinerary Ideas

Trip.com Group has highlighted three sample itineraries for different types of travelers:

– Fun-Loving Groups: A three-day trip to Bangkok, focusing on nightlife, local cuisine, and group activities.

– Family-Friendly: A four-day trip to Chengdu, China, featuring visits to see pandas and family-oriented attractions.

– Solo and Quiet: A three-day solo trip to Nice, France, designed for relaxation and nature experiences.

Maximizing Public Holidays

Long weekends tied to public holidays such as Good Friday or Hari Raya are particularly popular for short trips. Travelers can often take advantage of these periods by using a small amount of annual leave, making it easier to fit travel into busy work schedules.

The trend is expected to continue as more people seek to balance work and leisure, using available time off to explore new destinations or attend special events.

Data and Methodology

The findings are based on Trip.com Group’s booking data from January 1 to March 31, 2026. The data reflect a global perspective, with notable increases in both international and domestic short-trip bookings.

Conclusion

The way people use their time off is changing, with long weekends increasingly seen as opportunities for travel rather than rest. The growth in short-trip bookings, especially among working adults, suggests that demand for flexible, efficient travel experiences will remain strong in the coming years. Entertainment events and easy-to-use planning tools are further supporting this shift, making it easier for travelers to organize meaningful getaways with limited time.