Top Travel Trends 2026: How Filipinos Are Choosing to Travel This Year

March 25, 2026 | Philippines — Filipino travelers are redefining the way they explore the world this year. According to Klook Philippines’ Travel Pulse 2026, travel is becoming more intentional, experience-driven, and budget-conscious—without losing the joy of discovery.

The study surveyed over 11,000 travelers globally, including 500 Filipinos from Gen Z and Millennial groups, offering a closer look at what motivates Pinoys to travel in 2026.

“We look forward to these insights every year because they help us understand not just where Filipinos want to go, but why they travel,” shared Michelle Ho, General Manager of Klook Philippines. “This allows us to create experiences that truly match their needs.”

Filipinos Are Choosing Closer Destinations

While domestic travel surged in recent years, 2026 is seeing a shift toward short- to medium-haul international trips.

Top destinations include:

• Northeast Asia (67%) – Japan, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Taiwan
• Southeast Asia (30%) – Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia
• South Asia & Oceania (3%)

Vietnam and Taiwan, in particular, are gaining popularity, with Vietnam seeing a 193% growth and Taiwan up by 124% in 2025.

This trend shows that Filipinos are prioritizing accessible, nearby destinations that offer rich cultural experiences without requiring long-haul travel.

Budget Still Matters—But Experiences Come First

Filipinos continue to be practical when it comes to travel spending, with 42% prioritizing budget and affordability. However, there’s a noticeable shift in how they allocate their budget.

Instead of shopping, travelers are now spending more on:

• Food and dining experiences
• Local tours and cultural activities
• Shared experiences with family and friends

In fact, building memories with loved ones (34.2%) and seeking meaningful experiences (33.9%) rank just as high as budget considerations.

For many Filipinos, travel is no longer just about visiting places—it’s about creating lasting connections.

Food, Culture, and Shared Moments Take Center Stage

Food has become a major reason to travel. Many Filipino travelers are even willing to extend their trips just to explore local food spots.

Other top travel activities include:

• Cultural tours and city walks
• Festivals and local events
• Theme parks, cruises, and group activities
• Live shows and immersive attractions

There is also a growing interest in local markets and hidden gems (38.9%), surpassing traditional attractions like theme parks.

AI and Social Media Are Shaping Travel Decisions

Technology continues to play a major role in how Filipinos plan their trips.

Interestingly, Millennials are leading in AI usage, using it for:

• Researching destinations
• Finding deals and accommodations
• Planning itineraries

Meanwhile, Gen Z travelers use AI mainly for translation and trip planning.

Despite this, social media remains the most trusted source for travel inspiration and tips. Platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram are still the go-to for:

• Travel hacks
• Budget tips
• Honest reviews and recommendations

This combination of AI tools and real-life content helps travelers plan smarter and more confidently.

A More Meaningful Way to Travel

The Travel Pulse 2026 report highlights a clear shift: Filipinos are moving away from purely “trendy” travel and toward more meaningful, personalized experiences.

While destinations may remain familiar, the motivation behind travel has evolved. Filipinos now seek trips that are:

• More intentional
• More experience-focused
• More aligned with their interests and budget

“With these insights, we aim to create even better travel experiences for Filipino travelers,” Ho added.

Plan Your Next Trip

To stay updated on travel deals and inspiration, follow Klook Philippines on social media and download the Klook app via the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

To learn more, follow Klook on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok to stay updated. Download the Klook app through the Google Play Store or the Apple Store  for unforgettable travel experiences and book your next trip with Klook today.