STR Data Lab™ by AirDNA The 2026 Travel Outlook: AI, Affordability & What Today’s Traveler Really Wants
Travelers say they’re worried about the economy — but they’re still packing their bags. In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA Chief Economist Jamie Lane sits down with Seth Borko, Head of Research at Skift, to unpack the 2026 travel outlook and what it really means for short-term rental hosts and property managers.
The headline? Travel remains the world’s top discretionary spending priority — even in an uncertain economy. While consumers are price-conscious and navigating a “K-shaped” recovery, they’re not cutting trips. Instead, they’re choosing cheaper flights, exploring more affordable destinations, and prioritizing accommodations and experiences over everything else. For STR operators, that’s a powerful signal: the right property in the right market, positioned around the right experience, is still incredibly compelling.
The conversation also dives into the rapid rise of AI in trip planning. Nearly half of U.S. travelers are already using AI tools for discovery and inspiration. While booking behavior hasn’t fully shifted (yet), personalization is accelerating — and that could reshape loyalty, distribution, and direct booking strategies in the years ahead.
You don’t want to miss this episode.
Practical Takeaways for STR Hosts & Managers
Travel is still the #1 discretionary spend. Even in uncertain times, consumers want to travel — they’re just adjusting how they do it.
Guests are saving on flights — not stays. Survey data shows travelers are cutting airfare costs first while prioritizing accommodations and experiences. Your property still matters.
Experiences drive the trip. Today’s traveler starts with “What do I want to experience?” and back-solves into destination and accommodation. Design and market your STR as part of that experience — not just a place to sleep.
Affordable destinations have momentum. With travelers choosing less expensive markets, regional and domestic STR markets may benefit from trade-down behavior.
AI is reshaping discovery. Travelers are increasingly using AI tools to compare destinations, activities, and accommodations. Properties with clear positioning, strong differentiation, and well-structured listing content will win in AI-powered search.
Loyalty may be redefined. As personalization improves, guests may be more willing to switch brands or platforms if the offer is better. Value, flexibility, and frictionless booking will matter more than ever.
Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇
—————
Connect with Jamie on social media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane
—————
Connect with Scott on social media
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sagescott
—————
Connect with AirDNA on social media:
Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co
—————
Episode 171