Travel is ‘a non-negotiable’ despite economic uncertainty, says PoB Hotels

PoB Hotels has described travel as “a non-negotiable investment in wellbeing and relationships” in its new 2026 travel trends report.

The group of luxury British hotels surveyed 1,646 affluent and high-net-worth individuals across the UK and found that 42% intend to spend more on domestic breaks next year, with only 5% planning on cutting back.

The report also found that UK breaks are the most stable category when it comes to spending, as they are “far less vulnerable” than long-haul holidays.

Many travellers are also taking more spontaneous trips, with 27% of those surveyed booking stays less than four weeks in advance and almost half (47%) making bookings one to three months ahead of time.

Only 5% of respondents said they book more than six months in advance.

The report also claims that many properties see reservations occur at short notice, “often within days or even hours of arrival”.

The reasons consumers are travelling are also evolving. Heritage is now the most powerful driver of luxury breaks, as 75% of affluent individuals prioritise historic and cultural experiences when booking.

It’s ranked higher than food (66%), wellness (56%) and nature (56%).

The opportunity to spend time with family is also a key factor influencing travel decisions, with the report showing a 7% increase in multi-generational bookings when compared with the previous year.

In the document, PoB Hotels’ chief executive Kalindi Juneja said: “Affluent travellers are telling us, with striking clarity, that true luxury is not about what can be displayed, but about how deeply an experience makes them feel.”

The report was produced in partnership with market research company Altiant and respondants had a median Investible Asset level of £133,000.