The results are in – in depth data analysis highlights key travel trends in March 2026. Using data from our analytics partner, Travelogix, our membership consortia, Advantage Travel Management has uncovered what’s truly shaping travel today – moving beyond headlines to reveal the patterns driving real decisions.
Drawing on an extensive dataset of over 1.59 million bookings made across members of the Advantage Travel Partnership, of which MIDAS Travel is a key member, this insight spans both leisure and business travel. The result is a comprehensive view of how, where, and why people are travelling right now.
Covering bookings made between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2025, the data provides a powerful benchmark for organisations looking to refine their travel programmes, optimise spend, and plan more effectively for the future.
According to the data, what are the key travel trends right now?
Spending more, travelling smarter
One of the most striking trends is the shift toward efficiency. Average trip costs have increased by 4.8% year-on-year, while trip duration has fallen by 4.9%. This points to a more focused approach – shorter trips with clearer objectives, where value is measured by outcomes rather than time away.
Long-haul travel drives investment
Long-haul destinations continue to account for the highest travel costs, with South Africa, Japan, and the United States leading the way. These journeys tend to be fewer in number but greater in strategic importance, often tied to high-value business opportunities or critical engagements.
A clear divide in cabin choices
Short-haul European travel remains firmly economy-led, with up to 95% of bookings in economy class across key markets. For these shorter journeys, organisations are maintaining a disciplined approach to cost.
However, the picture shifts significantly on long-haul routes. Here, premium and business class usage is notably higher, reflecting a more considered investment in traveller wellbeing and productivity – particularly when journeys are longer and more demanding.
Expertise still matters
Despite the continued growth of digital booking tools, more complex and longer trips are still predominantly managed offline. This underlines the enduring value of expert support when navigating multi-layered itineraries, higher costs, and increased risk.
Complexity brings flexibility challenges
Long-haul travel also sees higher rates of changes and refunds. With longer booking windows, more variables, and greater exposure to disruption, these trips require a more flexible and responsive approach to planning and management.
Travel trends conclusion: A more intentional era of travel
Taken together, these trends reveal a clear shift in mindset. Travel is becoming more deliberate, more strategic, and more closely aligned to outcomes.
Organisations are not necessarily travelling less – but they are travelling differently. Every journey is being scrutinised for its value, with greater emphasis on purpose, efficiency, and return on investment.
At the same time, the data highlights the continued importance of expertise, flexibility, and informed decision-making – particularly as trips become more complex and expectations continue to rise.
In an evolving landscape, those who harness these insights effectively won’t just adapt to change – they’ll be best positioned to lead it.
Working with our partners and suppliers, MIDAS Travel has access to a far reaching data set. As a client of ours, we can provide you with insights into how your travel programmes fits in with the wider trends and behaviours. Speak to our team to find out more.
USEFUL LINKS
- Why travel managers need to be booking ground transportation – MIDAS Travel Blog
- What we do – MIDAS Travel Website
- Global Business Travel Review – Advantage Travel Partnership
