[un]packed

Travel is evolving. At Fred. Holidays, we've spent that past year analysing what matters most to travellers - and the answer is clear: experiences that go deeper, journeys that feel effortless, and adventures that inspire. This publication brings together the insights shaping holidays in 2026, from extended stays that allow time to truly connect with a destination, to expeditions that explore warmer and uncover remote wonders.

At a Glance

These are the travel trends that shaped our year - and the people who shaped them. From slow mornings by the water to multi-stop adventures built for curiosity, this is how the world travelled, experienced, and connected in 2025.

Which journey feels like yours?

Trend: JOY OF THE JOURNEY

THE WORLD CONNECTED - EFFORTLESSLY.

Perfect for: The Relaxed Roamer

Prefers smooth, scenic travel over airports
Likes luggage that rolls, not rushes
Enjoys cafe-culture breaks, not deadline dashes
Wants sustainable travel without the admin

Trend: CRUISE & STAY LONGER

MORE TIME, MORE DEPTH, MORE TO UNCOVER.

Perfect for: The Depth-Seeker

Wants to go beyond guidebooks
Enjoys time to wander, taste, and talk
Loves discovering the "real" version of a place
Values journeys that unfold slowly

Trend: DISCOVER MORE IN A SINGLE TRIP

BUILD YOUR OWN STORY - ONCE STOP AT A TIME.

Perfect for: The Curious Cartographer

Likes to design their own route & rhythm
Enjoys choice, flexibility, and freedom
Keeps a camera close and a plan loose
Travels not just to see, but to shape

Trend: WAKE UP IN A NEW DESTINATION

FOR JOURNEYS SHAPED BY SHORELINES, RIVERS, AND WATER-LED WANDERING.

Perfect for: The Slow-See-Everything Explorer

Loves waking up somewhere new each day
Seeks connection through culture, not crowds
Values scenery, space, calm, and comfort
Travels through the world - not around it

Trend: EXPEDITIONS TO WARMER WATERS

ADVENTURE WITH WARMTH, WILDLIFE, AND WONDER.

Perfect for: The Slow-See-Everything Explorer

Seeks nature, sea life, and sun-lit horizons
Loves wild moments, bright mornings
Follows warmth like a compass
Chooses journeys that give stories to tell