New insights from “Unpack ’26: The Trends in Travel” report reveal Gen Z and Millennials are driving the rise of multi-stay travel experiences.
New Hotels.com data from the annual Unpack ’26 trends report reveals that more than half of travelers globally (54%) are embracing the “Hotel Hop” trend — booking multiple hotels within a single destination to maximize their travel experience.*
“Hotels.com saw the data that people planning trips are booking a hotel in the app, then adding another hotel to the same trip,” says Melanie Fish, VP of Communications at Expedia Group. “Third-party research showed why they’re doing it, and apparently unpacking and repacking is worth it for the change of scenery, change in neighborhoods, and change in value.”
This emerging trend is fueled by a desire to explore different neighborhoods (50%) and unlock better deals (35%). City breaks, island escapes, and event-driven travel — including concerts and festivals — are key motivators. “Bleisure” travel is also a major driver, with one in four Gen Z and Millennial travelers using business trips as a springboard for multi-stay leisure experiences.
Hot Cities for Hotel Hoppers*
- Tokyo, Japan: Hop from Cyashitsu Ryokan Asakusa, a luxe ryokan, to modern casual at Hotel Indigo Tokyo Shibuya.
- London, U.K.: Hop from Broadwick Soho in the bustling center of downtown to a quiet stay at The Petersham on the outskirts.
- Los Angeles, U.S.: Hop from The Hollywood Roosevelt in the heart of Hollywood to a charming beach stay at The Georgian Hotel.
- Paris, France: Hop from classic Paris views at the Hotel Regina Louvre to boutique charm at La Planque Hôtel.
- Las Vegas, U.S.: Hop from business at the Wynn to unwinding off-strip at The Resort at Summerlin
Hot Islands for Hotel Hoppers*
- Mallorca, Spain: Hop from centrally located Concepció by Nobis to the island’s outskirts at Finca Sestelrica.
- Honolulu, U.S.: Hop from oceanfront elegance at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina to a budget-friendly boutique stay at Wayfinder Waikiki.
- Phuket, Thailand: Hop from Four Points by Sheraton Phuket Patong Beach Resort, an all-inclusive in the entertainment center, to a quieter stay at Metadee Concept Hotel.
- Bali, Indonesia: Hop from luxury wellness at GDAS Bali Health and Wellness Resort – Adults Only to an unplugged respite at Junjungan Ubud Hotel & Spa.
- San Juan, Puerto Rico: Hop from resort style Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve to residential Don Rafa Boutique Hotel & Residences.
Expert Travel Tip: Hotel Hop like a pro by setting up Hotel Price Alerts on Hotels.com to never miss a great deal on your next stay.
Notes to Editors
*Third-Party Methodology
Third-party research was conducted by market research partner OnePoll in accordance with the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. The Study was conducted online among 24,000 adult respondents across 18 countries, who are planning domestic or international travel in the next three years. Gen Z respondents are defined as those aged 18 to 24, while the combined Gen Z and Millennial group includes all respondents aged 18 to 44.
*Hotels.com — Hotel Hop
Hotel Hop data supported by increase in attach (hotel + hotel) demand on Hotels.com globally from January 2024 to December 2024.
About Unpack ’26
Q: What is Unpack ’26?
A: Unpack ’26 is the annual global travel insights report from Expedia Group, building on years of trend forecasting and traveler behavior analysis. It draws on first-party data from Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo, along with insights from 24,000 travelers across 18 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive travel trend reports in the industry.
Q: What makes Unpack ’26 a credible source for travel trends?
A: The report combines real-time platform data from millions of users with third-party research conducted by OnePoll, following the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. Its findings are backed by behavioral insights, booking patterns, and cultural signals, making it a trusted resource for media, industry leaders, and travelers alike.
Q: Where can I access the full Unpack ’26 report and assets?
A: Visit www.expedia.com/newsroom for the full Unpack ’26 report, downloadable assets, and brand-specific insights from Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo.