Long-haul travellers exercise caution in 2026 as safety shapes Europe demand

Global long-haul travel intentions are softening in 2026, as financial pressures and limited vacation time push travellers toward domestic and short-haul trips. The European Travel Commission (ETC) and Eurail’s Long-Haul Travel Barometer 1/2026 highlights shifting preferences among travellers from Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Japan, South Korea, and the US.

Across these markets, 59% of respondents plan a long-haul trip in 2026, down 5% from last year. Interest in Europe remains solid at 42%, though slightly lower than 2025, with demand led by China (59%) and Brazil (54%). Australia has seen the steepest decline, reflecting a move toward nearby Asian destinations, while Japan (20%) and the US (34%) show greater caution when it comes to long-haul trips to Europe.

Cost and time remain major barriers, particularly for younger travellers and those in South Korea and Japan. Safety is emerging as a key factor in destination choice. “Safety has become the leading criterion when selecting a European destination, cited by 51% of respondents… Europe ranks highest globally across all safety dimensions,” the report notes.

Travel behaviour is evolving: partial package trips and slow travel are gaining popularity, while shopping interest falls. Leisure remains the main motivation for travel to Europe (75%), though business travel is rising (+3%), especially from Australia and South Korea. Wellness tourism, led by Chinese travellers, is also growing.

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