If your 2026 bucket list involves crossing a finish line rather than just lounging by a pool, you are not alone. Tripadvisor's Tripadvisor Trendcast 2026, released today, has officially declared this the year of 'Sweat Jetting'—a surging travel phenomenon centered around physical fitness and personal bests. The comprehensive report also highlights a staggering 260% year-over-year increase in pet-friendly travel 2026 bookings, signaling that our four-legged companions are no longer just tagging along; they are driving the itinerary. As travelers increasingly seek meaningful travel experiences over passive sightseeing, the global tourism landscape is undergoing its most active transformation yet.
'Sweat Jetting': The Breakout Star of 2026 Travel Trends
Gone are the days when a vacation meant a complete break from physical exertion. According to the new data, Sweat Jetting travel is the defining movement of the year. This trend sees travelers planning entire trips around marathons, triathlons, and grueling physical challenges in far-flung destinations. Tripadvisor’s data reveals that active travel has shifted from a casual hobby to a core identity for millions.
The numbers supporting these fitness tourism trends are nothing short of explosive. The report notes that major international marathons are now tourism magnets that rival traditional festivals. Visitor numbers during the Chicago Marathon have spiked by 300% compared to typical weekends, with the Boston Marathon driving a 228% increase and Berlin seeing a 222% surge. Travelers are not just running; they are engaging in "race-cations"—combining the adrenaline of competition with the exploration of a new city.
"Travelers are prioritizing experiences that create local connection and offer physical challenge," says the report, citing examples like cycling adventures in Marrakech and Olympic-style workouts in Athens. Whether it's heli-hiking or racing through mountain paths, the goal is to sweat as much as it is to see.
VIP (Very Important Pet) Tourism Takes Over
If you thought bringing Fido along was a niche market, think again. One of the most shocking statistics from the Tripadvisor Trendcast 2026 is the massive 260% jump in pet-friendly experience bookings. This goes far beyond finding a hotel that allows dogs; it represents the rise of "VIP Tourism" where the pet's enjoyment is central to the trip planning.
Travelers are actively seeking out pet-friendly travel 2026 activities that allow for bonding. We aren't just talking about walks in the park. The trend points to a demand for specialized experiences, such as dog-friendly electric bike tours and dedicated animal amenities. The report suggests that the days of leaving pets in kennels are ending, as families view their pets as essential members of the travel squad who deserve their own adventures.
Extreme Adventure and Meaningful Connections
Beyond fitness and fur babies, the underlying theme of the 2026 forecast is a shift toward deep, meaningful travel experiences. Tourists are trading surface-level observation for high-impact participation. The report highlights a significant rise in "extreme" bookings, with lava field excursions up 79% and glacier tours climbing 29%. This appetite for the extreme suggests that travelers are looking to test their limits and feel a visceral connection to the earth.
The Rise of 'Soft Clubbing'
Interestingly, while daytime activities are getting more intense, nightlife is becoming more restorative. The trend of "Soft Clubbing" is gaining traction, with travelers seeking communal but low-stress environments. Bookings for listening bars—intimate venues focused on high-fidelity audio and vinyl—have surged by 64%. This reflects a desire for connection without the chaos of traditional nightclubs, aligning with the broader wellness focus of 2026.
Family Travel Gets a 'Kid-Led' Makeover
Another fascinating insight from the report is the democratization of family travel planning. We are seeing a revolution in "child-led" itineraries, where the youngest family members have a say in the destination and activities. Data shows a 19% increase in experience bookings that include children, with specific spikes in educational and interactive categories: heritage tours are up 40%, and cooking classes have risen by 47%.
This shift ensures that 2026 bucket list destinations like Bali, London, and Madeira aren't just checked off a list, but are experienced through the fresh, inquisitive eyes of children, creating deeper family bonds and more memorable vacations.
Where Will You Go in 2026?
As we move further into 2026, it is clear that the passive vacation is taking a backseat. Whether you are lacing up your running shoes for a marathon in Tokyo, booking a sidecar tour for your dog in Monterey, or seeking out a quiet listening bar in Mexico City, the trends point to one thing: intentionality. The Tripadvisor Trendcast 2026 proves that we are no longer just visiting the world; we are actively participating in it.
