Package holidays are making a comeback: security and savings for 2026!

Package holidays are making a comeback: security and savings for 2026!

In 2026, the trends in the travel industry will become clear and Germans will increasingly return to package holidays. Previously referred to as “neckers”, these package holidaymakers have experienced a renaissance in recent years, characterized by an increasing desire for security and predictability in their holiday plans. Loud Picture Industry representatives report that almost half of all holidaymakers now prefer package holidays. This is also reflected in the sales forecasts, which indicate travel spending sales of around 86 billion euros in Germany for 2023, which corresponds to an increase of three percent compared to the previous year.

A particularly notable trend is the very strained early bird business for the 2026 summer season, as many package holidays are already fully booked. This means that popular travel destinations such as Turkey, Egypt, Italy, Spain and Tunisia will be in focus again in 2026. An increase in sales of around three percent to around 58 billion euros is forecast for this summer, while the number of travelers is estimated at 93 million.

Attractive offers and protection through package holidays

The reasons for the growing popularity of package holidays are complex. The chairwoman of the Association of Independent Tourism Professionals (VUSR), Marija Linnhoff, explains that package tours not only offer good value for money, but also impress with protection, security certificates and crisis management. Many travelers prefer to obtain clarifying information and individual advice from a travel agency rather than laboriously wading through online platforms themselves. It should be noted that package tours are not necessarily more expensive than individual bookings, but the knowledge of travel agencies can make a significant difference in price.

However, individual travel providers, including bus and train travel, may experience a slight decline as many younger travelers seek personal advice and explanations about the benefits of certain package deals. This underlines the trend towards greater security and predictability when planning vacations.

Positive outlook for the travel industry

Another aspect that strengthens trust in the travel industry is the general willingness of Germans to travel in 2026. The German Travel Association (DRV) expects a positive forecast for the travel industry, and there is talk of stable growth in sales volume in the holiday and leisure travel market of three percent compared to the previous year. This includes package and modular trips as well as individually tailored vacation trips. The number of travelers is expected to be around 138 million, which remains slightly below the previous year's level.

Despite geopolitical uncertainties and economic challenges, demand remains strong, particularly for air travel to eastern medium-haul destinations and long-distance travel. Cruises are proving to be a particularly popular segment, with a forecast increase in sales of six percent. The total number of travelers for winter 2025/26 is estimated to be over 44 million, a slight decrease of two percent.

The travel industry is therefore optimistic about the future. For more information and details about current trends in the travel industry, visit the website travel association be visited. The movement towards package holidays is picking up again, and many holidaymakers seem to be ready to choose this safe and transparent route into the distance.