From networkism to cinematic travel: 5 intriguing trends to inspire your 2024

‘Tis the season to be planning an escape somewhere bold and new – the question is, where? Thanks to a little insider wizardry from our team of travel experts, we’ve identified some emerging trends to help flavor your choice. These are the new themes and talking points that are doing the rounds right now, ahead of a New Year packed to the rafters with adventure inspo. Dive in and prepare to be uplifted – the world is waiting for you…

1 - All hail Nordemania

Like a favorite child, sunshine destinations get all the attention – but true adventurists know to head up north. The likes of Finland and Iceland are the talk of travel circles right now, offering boundless scope for escapism come (mild) summers or Arctic snow. These are the places to be if you want off-radar thrills, from woodland glamping and midnight sunshine to off-road jeep expeditions and hanging out with a husky dog or three.

“Little surprise that Finland and Iceland are two of our top-selling escapes for winter 2023; both countries offer unparalleled scope for adventure,” says Flash Pack co-founder Lee Thompson. “Think Northern Lights, snowmobile safaris, glacial hikes and hot spring bathing – the list goes on. For solo travelers, it’s like entering another world brimming with unique, quite daring experiences. Short flight times and easy connections from the rest of Europe make these far-north destinations even more attractive for a long weekend like no other, and we’re anticipating a continued surge in demand for 2024.” 

Be inspired by Finland and Iceland

2 - The destination switch-up

At a time where mainstream travel destinations are evermore crowded and difficult to navigate, savvy travelers are becoming seasoned in switching things up. What does look like, adventure-wise? Swapping a popular, well-known country for something a little more off-radar – with greater scope to explore.

Montenegro, for example, is more remote than its much-loved Balkans neighbour, Croatia; yet studded with similar architectural, foodie and beach-bound treasures. Meanwhile, South Korea offers a slightly cheaper, less traveled alternative to Japan; with a cherry season of its own, plus ancient temples, uber-modern cities and subtropical islands. And Laos promises to take you even further into the jungle interiors of Southeast Asia than the highlands of North Vietnam.

Stay tuned for Flash Pack’s new adventure to Montenegro and Albania, or find out more about South Korea and Laos

3 - Networkism: it's a thing

Solo travel isn’t just about the adventure itself. It’s also about meeting new people and making midlife friends. The average Brit has lost over four friends since the start of the pandemic – but group adventures are a potent way to reverse the trend.

There’s something about exploring somewhere completely new, with unique experiences and a fresh set of people, that means the stage is set for lasting connections. Flash Pack data shows that four out of five Flashpackers keep in touch with fellow solo travelers after a trip, making it a great way to expand social networks near and far. These community ties are also helped by local events such as The House Party series, held in cities worldwide.

4 - The rise of cinematic adventure

By which we mean landscapes so epic and sweeping, they could easily rival any big-screen blockbuster. Argentina’s 18,000-year-old Perito Moreno Glacier, for example, or the maple foliage around Japan’s Hozugawa River in autumn season. A chance to see reef sharks and sea lions in the Itabaca Channel of the Galápagos, fringed by red mangrove forests and cliff banks formed from ancient lava flows. Unsurprisingly, this theme coincidences with an increased interest in bucket-list travel, too.

“Now that the world of travel is fully opened up again, many solo travelers are pooling their annual leave for once-in-a-lifetime trips abroad,” says Flash Pack co-founder Lee. “Pretty much the antithesis of two weeks on a beach, this trend points to an appetite for supersized adventures packed with local, unique experiences and spectacular scenery.”

Explore Argentina, Japan, Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands

5 - Slow travel has arrived

Burnout is soaring, our diaries are crammed and, for many of us, life feels more hectic than ever. All the more reason to down tools and find time for reflection with the art of slow travel. This is all about getting back to nature and finding headspace in destinations where the everyday rhythm is a little slower and more relaxed. Places like Bali, with its jungle retreats and traffic-free Gili islands, or Costa Rica, home to dazzling wildlife and the “pura vida” lifestyle. Iconic train journeys tick the slow travel box, too.

“Nothing beats the romance of a slow train trip somewhere extraordinary – it’s a great way of slowing down and savoring the moment within a hyper-busy age,” says Lee. “After a tumultuous few years, Sri Lanka has made a big comeback; and its iconic upcountry train routes are a major part of its appeal. 2024 will also be a breakthrough year for travel to Bali, the Island of the Gods, with a chance to unwind via volcano trekking, meditation and private island boating.”

Immerse yourself in Bali, Sri Lanka and Costa Rica

Flash Pack is a group travel company that specializes in small group adventures for solo travelers in their 30s and 40s. Find out more about how we work, and our mission to build a global community of friendships.

Images: Flash Pack, Unsplash