There’s a new travel trend taking off in 2026 – and it’s all about embracing the inner child. According to Bókun, a Tripadvisor company, nostalgia-driven travel is set to boom in 2026. Coined “Kidcations”, these experiences tap into the idea of rediscovering childhood joy, innocence and adventure.
*All details correct at time of publish (21 January 2026)
With Google searches for “nostalgic travel” at an all-time high, driven by the growing interest in experiences like camping, roller-skating, painting and treehouse stays, it’s clear travellers are seeking experiences that lean into the wider trend of purpose-led travel.
In light of this, Bókun shares insights into the rise of nostalgia-driven travel, the experiences set to shape travel demand and how the growing interest in healing experiences is influencing travel choices.
Demand for nostalgic travel hits all-time high, surging by 3174% in the past year
(data correct as of 3/1/26)
Google search data reveals worldwide Searches for “nostalgic travel” are at an all-time high and only projected to soar, increasing by a staggering 3174% in the past year.
But what is nostalgic travel and what experiences are driving demand?
Nostalgic travel is a growing trend, seeing people embrace in nostalgic activities that evoke feelings of adventure and innocence, driven by a desire for reconnection, simplicity and that foster an escape from the stresses of adult life.
In the past year, Google searches for “campfire experiences” increased by 1100%, while demand for “roller-skating classes” surged by 239% and searches for “arcade experiences” increased by 111%. This reflects a growing demand for experiences rooted in nostalgia.
But what has provoked this interest?
Nostalgic travel fueled by the demand for healing experiences, as searches increase by 201% YoY
(data correct as of 12/1/26)
Google searches for “Healing experiences” worldwide increased by 201% in the past year, showcasing a rise in demand for experiences that support emotional well-being and create a lasting impact.
“Kidcations” taps into this trend, with travellers participating in activities, tours and experiences that embrace their inner child, offering reconnection and healing, combined fun and adventure.
How the rise of “Disney adults” are leading the shift towards nostalgia-driven travel
In recent years, the term “Disney adult” has surged, particularly on TikTok, with Google searches reaching a five-year high. In the past month alone, there were 251,000 searches — up 53% compared to last year.
Online, Videos of “disney adults” sharing the joy of “embracing their inner child” gain thousands of views online, while Google searches for “theme park experiences” are at all-time high, increasing by 87% in the past year.
Samuel Jefferies, Senior Growth Marketing Manager at Bókun, comments:
“The rise of “Disney adults” reflects the wider trend of travellers prioritising purpose over place when it comes to travel choices.
“From camping experiences, to painting classes and tree-house stays, it’s no surprise these experiences – rooted in nostalgia – are seeing a surge in demand. With a clear shift towards experience-led travel, this is an exciting time for the travel industry to tap into the growing demand for experiences that evoke emotion, connection and adventure.
“We predict “kidcations” are set to surge in popularity over the next year, as nostalgia-driven experiences continue to play an increasingly powerful role in shaping travel itineraries.”
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