Silver Spring, Md. – September 22, 2026 -- Travel booking platform Tripmasters has identified emerging patterns expected to shape independent travel in 2027, based on traveler search and booking data.

Travelers are shifting away from peak summer crowds

According to Skyscanner's Horizons research cited by Tripmasters, 34% of travelers plan to seek out quieter destinations in the coming year, while 31% intend to visit popular spots during shoulder seasons when crowds thin out. Another 26% say choosing less-touristy locations will help them save money.