ABTA Holiday Habits Report – 2025-26

Each year, ABTA produces its Holiday Habits report, looking at how the UK population has travelled over the last 12 months and what their holiday plans are for the year ahead. 

The 2025–26 report highlights a strong upturn in the UK’s outbound holiday market, with travel confidence and participation at their highest since before the pandemic. Despite ongoing economic pressures, travel remains a spending priority, underlining the sector’s resilience and importance to consumers.

With 87% of adults taking holidays and a growing appetite for experiential, adventure, and sustainable travel – especially among younger and solo travellers – Latin America is well placed to attract interest, and the report notes that the region accounts for around 6% of all UK outbound bookings this year. The continued dominance of package holidays and preference for trusted travel professionals suggest that clearly structured, protected itineraries will appeal to travellers seeking reassurance for longer trips. 

Long-haul resilience benefits Latin America
The report notes that long-haul travel demand remains stable, even amid global uncertainty. Travellers show high willingness to continue exploring distant destinations – nearly 95% said they are not put off travelling abroad despite geopolitical or environmental concerns. 

Growth in adventure and experience-led travel
Younger age groups (18–34) and solo travellers show strong interest in adventure, nature, and cultural exploration. Operators offering experiential, sustainable, and community-based travel in Latin America can tap into these evolving preferences.

Package holiday demand creates opportunities
With 54% of holidays booked as packages, travellers increasingly value reassurance, financial protection, and simplicity. Latin American destinations, often perceived as “complex” or “adventurous,” can attract more UK travellers by offering well-structured, ABTA-protected packages that simplify logistics.

Sustainability and ethical considerations are rising
The report highlights a growing concern for responsible travel and environmental impact, particularly among younger demographics. Tourism boards and tour operators can leverage this by promoting low-impact, sustainable experiences.

Flight connectivity and convenience remain a barrier
While interest in long-haul and experiential travel is growing, ease of access remains a major factor in destination choice. Travellers increasingly value confidence and simplicity when booking, preferring routes and arrangements that minimise complexity. Maintaining and expanding direct or well-connected flight options from the UK and Europe is key to growing tourism.

Opportunity in multi-destination and rail travel trends
With more travellers interested in rail and multi-stop experiences, operators can suggest “slow travel” or multi-country Latin America itineraries.

Positive medium-term outlook
With rising travel confidence and higher spending intentions projected for 2026, Latin America stands to benefit as travellers widen their horizons again after prioritising Europe post-pandemic. Travel intentions continue to rise: 3% more expect to take an overseas trip next year, and nearly half have already started booking their 2026 holidays, signalling a robust year ahead for the industry.

Read the full report here: Holiday Habits_2025_26_FINAL