2025 Travel Trends: IMG’s Annual Survey Reveals Where the World is Heading

The world of travel is constantly evolving, shaped by cultural shifts, economic changes, and the unrelenting human desire to explore. As we step into 2025, the latest IMG Travel Trends Survey offers a fascinating glimpse into the destinations, trends, and concerns shaping travelers’ plans this year. Conducted by International Medical Group (IMG), a leader in global insurance and assistance services, the survey polled over 1,500 travelers to uncover what’s hot—and what’s not—in the world of travel.

Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a bleisure traveler blending work and play, or a family planning a multigenerational getaway, this deep dive into the data will help you navigate the year ahead with confidence. Let’s unpack the key findings, emerging trends, and expert insights to inspire your 2025 journeys.


The IMG Travel Outlook Survey: A Snapshot

For over a decade, IMG’s annual survey has served as a trusted resource for travelers and industry professionals alike. By analyzing responses from its global customer base, IMG identifies patterns that reflect broader societal shifts. This year’s results highlight a post-pandemic world embracing travel with renewed vigor:

  • 96% of respondents plan to travel internationally in 2025.
  • 51% will take 3+ international trips, while 85% have domestic U.S. travel plans.
  • Spending is up: 29% intend to allocate more money to travel than in 2024.

“Travel isn’t just rebounding—it’s reimagining itself,” says Steve Paraboschi, IMG’s President and CEO. “From solo explorers to families spanning three generations, people are prioritizing experiences that connect them to culture, adventure, and loved ones.”


The Top Travel Trends of 2025

1. Urban Tourism and Family Visits Dominate

Cities and family reunions are the twin pillars of 2025 travel. Over half of respondents (53%) plan urban getaways to iconic destinations like Tokyo, Paris, or New York, while 51% will journey abroad to visit family.

Why it’s trending: Urban centers offer a mix of convenience (think direct flights and robust transit) and cultural immersion. Meanwhile, as global diaspora communities grow, family visits bridge distances and preserve traditions.

Pro tip: Pair city stays with day trips to nearby rural areas for a balanced itinerary.

2. Solo Travel: Empowerment on the Rise

Nearly half of travelers (48%) will embark on solo trips this year. Motivations vary: 57% are visiting family abroad, while 54% seek urban adventures. Solo travel is particularly popular among millennials and Gen Z, who value flexibility and self-discovery.

Why it’s trending: Social media inspiration, safer travel infrastructure, and a cultural shift toward independence are driving the trend. Destinations like Japan and Canada—praised for safety and hospitality—top solo travelers’ lists.

Pro tip: Opt for group tours or co-living spaces to balance solitude with social opportunities.

3. Bleisure Travel: Work Hard, Explore Harder

Business travel is booming, with 57% of respondents planning work-related trips—a 7% increase from 2024. Of these, 59% will tack on leisure days, blending conferences with cultural excursions.

Why it’s trending: Remote work flexibility allows professionals to extend trips without sacrificing productivity. Cities like Mexico City and Barcelona, which combine business hubs with vibrant arts scenes, are ideal for bleisure.

Pro tip: Use travel insurance with business coverage to protect laptops and other work essentials.

4. Multigenerational Trips: Making Memories Together

Families are going big in 2025, with 34% planning trips that include grandparents, parents, and kids. Popular choices include cruises (for ease) and national park lodges (for nature bonding).

Why it’s trending: Families prioritize shared experiences post-pandemic, while grandparents increasingly foot the bill as “memory-making” investments.

Pro tip: Rent a villa or book adjoining rooms for privacy and togetherness.

5. Concert Tourism: The Beat Goes On

Following 2024’s Taylor Swift frenzy, event-based travel remains strong. With stars like Beyoncé and BTS announcing 2025 tours, fans are globetrotting for front-row seats.

Why it’s trending: Live events drive tourism economies, with cities offering ticket/hotel bundles. Tokyo’s Olympic Stadium and London’s Wembley Arena are hotspots.

Pro tip: Book refundable tickets and insurance in case schedules change.


Travel Spending: Where the Money Flows

Despite economic uncertainties, travelers are loosening purse strings. 29% plan to outspend 2024, prioritizing:

  • Unique accommodations (e.g., eco-lodges, heritage homes).
  • Premium experiences (e.g., private guides, culinary tours).
  • Longer trips (10+ days).

“Travelers aren’t just buying trips—they’re investing in stories to tell,” notes Justin Poehler, IMG’s Chief Commercial Officer.


Top Concerns: Health, Cancellations, and Chaos

While wanderlust is strong, anxieties linger. Travelers ranked their top worries as:

  1. Getting sick or injured abroad (62%).
  2. Trip cancellations (58%).
  3. Transportation disruptions (49%).

“A comprehensive travel insurance plan isn’t optional—it’s essential,” emphasizes Paraboschi. IMG reports a 20% uptick in policies covering adventure sports and pre-existing conditions.


2025’s Hottest Destinations

After a three-year hiatus, classic favorites reclaim the spotlight:

  1. Canada: With its 2025 Winter Festival in Quebec and pristine national parks, Canada appeals to adventurers and urbanites alike.
  2. Italy: From Sicily’s “White Lotus” effect to Rome’s Jubilee Year, Italy leans into cultural tourism.
  3. Mexico: Affordable luxury in Tulum and Oaxaca’s culinary renaissance draw foodies and sun-seekers.
  4. Japan: The Osaka World Expo and cherry blossom tours fuel demand.
  5. France: Paris’s Olympics and sustainable wine tours in Bordeaux cater to sport and luxury markets.

How to Travel Smarter in 2025

  1. Insure early: Cover cancellations, health emergencies, and gear.
  2. Book flexibly: Use refundable fares and avoid peak seasons.
  3. Embrace slow travel: Spend more time in fewer places.
  4. Stay informed: Monitor weather and political alerts.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 travel landscape is one of bold exploration and mindful preparation. Whether you’re chasing northern lights in Canada, mastering pasta-making in Tuscany, or reuniting with family across continents, let IMG’s insights guide your journey. As Poehler reminds us, “The world is yours to discover—just don’t forget to protect it.”

Ready to plan your 2025 adventure? Explore IMG’s travel insurance plans at www.img.com and wander wisely.


About IMG
International Medical Group® (IMG®) is a worldwide leader in global travel insurance, offering tailored plans for travelers, missionaries, and businesses since 1990. Learn more at www.img.com.