• Over-55s lead 2026 travel surge splashing cash on passion-led trips and ‘spending kids’ inheritance’.
• Over-55s plan to take the most holidays, with many choosing to spend money on shared family experiences over leaving more as inheritance.
• 70% of people plan holidays around personal interests and passions, with trips based around history and food the most popular.
• Travel spend is set to increase as nearly one in five set aside larger budgets for 2026, presenting a significant opportunity for the travel sector.

A national survey, commissioned by Immediate and conducted by YouGov, reveals 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 survey 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.

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

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