Are you on trend?

What’s big in the world of adventure this year – and tips on how to snag the adventure of a lifetime

Booking big

The guiding principle of the GOAT is that, if there was ever a time to plan the trip of a lifetime, it’s when we are aware of just how short life is. Big-ticket destinations – Australia, Japan, the Inca Trail – will be more popular than ever in 2022.

Travelling long

When we do finally get away we’ll want to stay away as long as possible. So if there is still testing faff to be endured, we are going to make it worthwhile. Greater concern for our environmental impact is also feeding the idea of travelling less but staying longer, thus reducing the number of flights taken and encouraging a deeper immersion in a destination.

Getting active

The greatest, most memorable trips are often those with a sense of challenge, so a quest for this type of fulfilment, added to the lockdown boom in walking and cycling, will see an increase in demand for trips with a physical aspect. Explore has seen a surge in the popularity of walking trips. “In the past three months, 31 per cent of all bookings have been walking holidays compared with less than 20 per cent in 2019.”

Booking soon

Many people are ravenous for travel. “Our booking data is showing that 40 per cent of British travellers have booked to travel before the end of April, showing the desire to get back on the road and adventure as soon as possible,” says Brian Young of G Adventures.

Book with an expert

In a world where rules can change by the hour, placing your precious holiday plans in secure, knowledgeable hands has never been more important. According to the latest AITO Travel Intentions study, 61 per cent of those keen to travel would organise their next trip with a travel company.