Travellers are increasingly booking trips closer to departure in 2026.
Search data from Expedia Group shows a shift towards shorter booking windows with searches in the seven to 13 day booking window increasing 25 per cent year on year globally.
This increase was mirrored in the APAC region which also reported a 25 per cent rise in short-term searches.
VP of Expedia Travel Agent Affiliate Program (TAAP) and business development, Robin Lawther, said that the data presents a unique opportunity for travel advisors.
“Travel planning is becoming more flexible, with many clients waiting longer to book and responding more directly to events, pricing and changing circumstances,” he said.
“For travel agents, this creates a clear opportunity to add value in the moment, helping clients move quickly, navigate choice confidently and secure the right trip even on a shorter booking window.”
Events drive travel behaviour
Travel is also being shaped by global sporting events, with searches to the US and Canada rising by 10 per cent, and searches to Mexico increasing by 15 per cent, year on year ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Across the Asia Pacific, Japan, Korea and Australia stole the spotlight as the region’s most popular destinations.
Top searched destination by region for APAC travellers:
- Tokyo, Japan
- Sydney, Australia
- Seoul, South Korea
- Melbourne, Australia
- Osaka, Japan
- Fukuoka, Japan
- Singapore
- Incheon, South Korea
- Gold Coast, Australia
- Taipei, Taiwan
The data points to a less predictable booking environment in 2026 as travellers respond to events, regional disruptions and shifting confidence levels.
For advisors, it means capturing demand at shorter notice with competitive rates, broad supply and the ability to act quickly when clients are ready to book.
