Executive Summary

How can you best attract the luxury traveler in 2026?

Think of them as the protagonist of their own vacation story. Craft experiences in accommodations and excursions that leave travelers feeling these things were built specifically with them in mind, with “attention to every detail, from custom decor to curated local experiences,” as one traveler put it.

It was the clear theme from 500+ U.S. luxury travelers asked about their priorities and preferences as part of the annual Luxury Travel survey independently commissioned by Flywire.

It’s a little world of your own, where every detail is tailored to make you feel special, like you’ve stepped into your own personal paradise.

Travelers signaled they are ready to spend more and take at least three luxury vacations in 2026. What do you need to know to earn their business?

Appeal to their desire to de-stress Travelers are overwhelmingly seeking inner peace and wellness on their trips. 97% said they are very likely to take a trip in 2026 to reduce stress, reduce anxiety or fully unplug. 44% are interested in taking vacations in nature, with a high desire to deepen their self-discovery.

Accommodate pre-payment preferences Luxury travelers surveyed showed a strong preference for paying for their hotel or lodging ahead of their trip. When offered a discount, they are more likely to pre-pay – even if the charge is non-refundable. For a 10% discount, 28% say they would very likely choose a non-refundable payment option. With a 20% discount, that likelihood increases to 60%.

Tap into their sense of spontaneity With the majority taking three trips a year, it is little surprise that three in five luxury travelers surveyed book just months ahead of their vacations. Only 11% need six months or more to book.

Take away their payment pain 71% of the travelers surveyed said they are concerned about the security of their payments, and more than ⅓ said it is the biggest painpoint they experience in booking trips. They want a wide range of options when it comes to paying for their trips – including being able to use their card of choice (70% prefer to pay by credit card) and digital wallets (27% want to pay this way).

Payment ease drives loyalty. Across all age groups, 91% say they are more loyal to brands where they know they’ll get an easy payment experience.

Luxury travelers factor payment experience in picking travel agents, providers and accommodations, and a high percentage are concerned about security and hidden fees. Brands that simplify and secure the entire payment process will be the ones that inspire long-term loyalty.

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How Flywire solves payment challenges for luxury travel businesses

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