A new report from the U.S. Travel Association, powered by analytics firm Tourism Economics, predicts that U.S. travel spending will hit a high of $1.37 trillion in 2026 and $1.42 trillion in 2027. The forecast, which adjusts for inflation, notes that while domestic travel accounts for 87% of U.S. travel spending, international inbound travel, which declined in 2025, is expected to grow in 2026, with visitor spending rising 1.6% to $178 billion. Business travel is expected to grow 0.8% in 2026, with the report citing many industries as prioritizing in-person meetings and events. The forecast adds that while U.S.-based events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup are expected to draw visitors, outbound travel still outpaces international visitation, with the report citing inflation and energy prices; geopolitical conflict; long visa wait times and global perceptions of the U.S. as well as softening consumer confidence contributing to the gap.
“Travel continues to be one of the most resilient and essential sectors of the U.S. economy,” said Joshua Friedlander, vice president of research at the U.S. Travel Association. “Even with inflation and broader economic pressures, Americans are continuing to invest in experiences, reunions and business connections that happen through travel.”
