Travel Interest Rises in Eastern Europe and New Zealand for 2026, According to KAYAK Data

KAYAK’s 2026 Travel Trends Forecast indicates increased travel interest and decreased airfares, with Eastern Europe and New Zealand emerging as key destinations.

KAYAK has published its 2026 Travel Trends Forecast, revealing notable shifts in travel interest and airfare pricing. The analysis, based on millions of searches, shows a 9% increase in travel interest alongside a 3% decrease in domestic airfares and a 10% decrease in international airfares. This trend suggests a busy year for travel, with more affordable options available to consumers.

Eastern Europe has emerged as a significant area of interest, with seven of the top ten trending destinations located there. Prague, Czech Republic, leads with a 180% increase in interest, followed by Sofia, Bulgaria (136%), Krakow, Poland (106%), Budapest, Hungary (86%), Tirana, Albania (66%), and Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (62%).

Christchurch, New Zealand, is the fastest-growing destination for American travelers, with a 194% increase in flight interest. This surge is attributed to new nonstop services that enhance accessibility to the South Island.

The report also highlights the influence of pop culture, sports, and global events on travel patterns. Kansas City, with a 14% rise in interest, is among the top 50 trending destinations for Americans, driven by its sports teams and upcoming World Cup soccer tournament. Milan has seen a 15% increase in flight searches due to the anticipation of the 2026 Winter Games. Las Vegas has experienced an 18% rebound in flight interest, supported by new entertainment offerings and competitive fares.

KAYAK’s analysis identifies several destinations where airfare has significantly decreased, making them attractive options for travelers. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, has seen a 36% drop in airfare, while Split, Croatia, has experienced a 33% decrease. Naples and Florence in Italy have both seen a 26% reduction, and Shannon, Ireland, has seen a 25% decrease.

For domestic travelers seeking low-cost options, Punta Gorda, Florida, New York, New York, and Raleigh, North Carolina, offer the lowest average airfares for 2026.

Early searches for summer 2026 indicate strong international interest, with a 9% increase in summer searches compared to the previous year. International airfare is down 12%, making long-haul trips more accessible. Asia and Europe are emerging as top value picks, with airfare down 16% and 14%, respectively. The Middle East has experienced a 35% increase in summer search interest, driven by expanded flight connectivity, while the Caribbean has seen a 15% rise, supported by demand for warm-weather destinations.

The data for the 2026 Travel Trends Forecast is based on KAYAK flight, hotel, and rental car searches from April 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025, for travel between January 1, 2026, and December 31, 2026. Summer 2026 insights are based on flight searches from June 1, 2025, to November 15, 2025, for departures between May 21, 2026, and September 9, 2026, from U.S. airports.