Outbound travel from the US to long-haul destinations is set to soar in 2926.
US travellers made 29.1 million international trips
Between January and May 2026, US travellers made 29.1 million international trips, with long-haul destinations recording the fastest growth, reflecting the ongoing diversification of destination preferences. This was a 23% increase compared with the same period in 2019.
More demand to emerging and long-haul destinations
The data was analysed as part of the Market Intelligence Series produced by WTE Miami, which examined international departure figures to identify changes in travel demand and destination choices among Americans. The analysis published by TravelDailyNews found that growth was particularly strong in Asia, Africa, Central and South America, and the Pacific region. Travel to these areas increased by 37.2% overall, outpacing the general growth recorded in the US outbound tourism market. The data indicates that American travellers are directing a greater share of international demand towards emerging and long-haul destinations.
Diversification of outbound travel patterns
North America continued to account for almost half of all international travel undertaken by US residents during the period under review. However, established travel markets are facing increased competition, as travellers are spreading their trips across a wider range of destinations. The findings point to a broader diversification of outbound travel patterns from the United States, rather than growth concentrated solely in established destinations.
