People want to expand their horizons with trips to further flung and less familiar destinations in 2025, says ABTA's new Travel Trends report – most likely with their 'bae'
ABTA's latest travel forecast reveals a significant shift towards far-flung destinations, with more than a third of holidaymakers planning ventures beyond Europe and North America in 2025.
The Travel Trends 2025 report highlights a marked increase in Asian travel, as 11% of travellers set their sights on destinations such as Japan, Thailand, India and China.
Africa and Oceania are also gaining popularity, with projected visitor increases to 7% and 6% respectively.
'Baecations' – holidays taken solely with romantic partners – are trending upward, with 44% of travellers choosing couple-only trips, up from 40% last year. This trend extends to parents, with 29% taking child-free getaways, an 8% increase from the previous year.
Generation Z is driving a surge in luxury travel, with 22% planning to upgrade their accommodation in 2025. Nearly half of Gen Z travellers opted for five-star stays abroad this year, significantly above the overall average of 35%.
Graeme Buck, Director of Communications at ABTA – The Travel Association, says: “More people are looking to travel abroad in 2025, and our report shows that many are looking for new experiences.
“Our advice for anyone thinking of going away is to speak to an ABTA travel agent or tour operator. They are experts at turning people’s plans into their ideal break and can offer any support or guidance needed along the way.”
ABTA's top five travel trends for 2025:
- Loving long-haul – Expanding horizons to far-flung, less familiar destinations
- Five-star fans – Rising preference for luxury accommodation
- Baecations are back – Growing popularity of couples-only holidays
- Experiencing winter – Increased focus on unique seasonal activities
- Inspiration polarisation – Blend of traditional and tech-driven holiday plannin
by Olivia Palamountain | GLOBETRENDER