Let the Biggest Travel Trends of 2018 Inspire Your 2019 Vacations

Where do you go for travel ideas? According to Pinterest, twice as many travelers come to Pinterest for travel ideas over traditional online travel agency sites. The inspiration platform pulled the fastest-growing searches from 2018 to help give us all plenty of ideas for where to go in the new year.

Hot springs are hot (up +32%) but we knew that already (our July 2018 cover story featured Utah’s hot springs route). But Utah isn’t the only hotbed for natural springs in the West. Check out our hot springs guide to discover some of the most soothing spots to soak, both in a resort and out in the wilderness.

Small town travel is booming in searches, growing 276% in the last year. Why are travelers looking to escape to smaller locales as alternatives to big cities? For their beautiful views, their unique accommodations, and a low-key approach to a vacation. Need inspiration?  Don’t miss these dream towns and the best outdoorsy towns in the West.

Seeking out abandoned castles is another big search trend, growing 142%. The West has castles of its own, too—don’t miss Bishop’s Castle (pictured above), handbuilt by one man in Colorado.

Skip the tour van and try bus travel (up 32%) or even bike tours (up 64%) on your next trip, whether you’re exploring wine country or a new city.

A minimalist approach to waste isn’t just for holiday gift wrapping. Zero-waste travel is up 74% for a reason—the best travel is sustainable, whether it’s in strategic packing or finding sustainable hotels and eateries on your next trip.

We love Hawaii, but there’s something magical about finding lesser-traveled islands. Fewer crowds, a more local experience—it’s no wonder that less-traveled island searches are up 179%. Need an off-the-beaten-path island to visit? Try heading Vancouver Island or San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest.

Add extra oomph to a surprise birthday party or bachelorette weekend by also giving it a surprise destination, a trend that’s up 192%. Everyone will enjoy ending up at this up-and-coming city in Mexico or these wellness destinations.