Over-55s lead 2026 travel surge, data finds

‘Spending kids’ inheritance’ and 'splashing the cash'

A national survey has revealed UK holidaymakers are set to boost travel spending in 2026, with half of over 55s opting to spend money on experiences over saving cash to leave as inheritance.

The research, commissioned by Immediate, publisher of brands such as Radio Times, Good Food and HistoryExtra, was conducted by YouGov. 

It asked more than 2,000 respondents about their travel plans and preferences for 2026, including their spending habits, the types of experiences they prefer, and whether their interests inform their holiday planning. 

The survey found that more than half of respondents (55%) would rather spend money on shared family experiences than leave a larger inheritance. 

This attitude is particularly pronounced among parents with older or independent children, with 68% saying they now feel more comfortable prioritising spending on themselves.

Sending a positive signal to travel providers, despite the tough economic climate, holiday spending appears to be ring-fenced when it comes to financial planning. 

26% of British holidaymakers will spend more on longer trips and 18% will spend more on shorter trips in 2026, while the majority will keep budgets the same as in 2025, despite the high cost of living. 

The poll also revealed that 70% of people plan holidays based around their personal interests and passions, with history and food the most popular sources of inspiration. 

43% choose holiday destinations that align with their interests from the moment they start planning. Among those interested in passion-led holidays for 2026, the most popular are:

• History and heritage trips, with 54% planning this type of trip 
• Food and drink experiences, with 31% planning this type of trip
• Gardening or nature-focused trips, with 27% planning this type of trip

Ed Grenby, Radio Times travel editor, said: “The survey findings clearly show that holidays and passion-led pursuits are non-negotiables for the majority of people. What we see across all age groups is that an appreciation of the here and now, and an unashamed enjoyment of life, is something we all have in common.”

From a range of options, respondents’ top three most appealing travel experiences were City breaks (57%), Beach holidays (42%) and All-inclusive holidays (37%)

“Cities are like living museums, so it’s no surprise that city breaks are the most appealing category, and that history and heritage comes out as the most popular source of inspiration for passion-led trips,” he added. 

“With so many city destinations and European hubs of gastronomy and culture just an hour or two away, we really are spoilt for choice. 

"As people seek sunnier climates in the darker months and maximise relaxation time over meticulous itineraries, the popularity of beach holidays and all-inclusive experiences also endures.”

In a further boom for the travel industry, 48% of over-55 respondents said they feel guilt-free when treating themselves to luxury holidays and experiences over spending time with their family, with 13% saying they feel guilty, presenting a clear opportunity for luxury travel providers to target this audience. 

The findings on budgeting and the focus on experiences across generations suggests that holidays will remain a top priority for people in 2026, providing the travel sector with the confidence to connect with an engaged market.