National Shop For Travel Day

National Shop For Travel Day is observed on the second Tuesday of January. In 2026, it falls on January 13. This day serves as a strategic reminder to begin planning the year’s vacations and business trips as the winter holiday season concludes. It highlights the vast array of digital tools and platforms available to modern travelers, encouraging them to browse destinations, compare prices, and secure bookings. By focusing on the logistical side of tourism early in the year, the day helps individuals turn their travel goals into concrete itineraries.

History of National Shop For Travel Day

The Travel Technology Association established National Shop For Travel Day in 2018. The association, which represents online travel agencies, global distribution systems, and short-term rental platforms, created the day to celebrate the intersection of technology and tourism. They chose the second Tuesday of January because it aligns with a period when consumers are often back at work and looking forward to their next break. This timing also coincides with when many travel companies launch their first major promotional campaigns of the year.

Before the digital age, booking a trip required physically visiting a travel agent or making numerous phone calls to airlines and hotels. The creation of this holiday recognizes how much these processes have changed due to innovations like mobile apps, virtual tours, and real-time reviews. Since its inception, the day has grown into a significant event for the travel industry, with brands across the globe offering specific incentives and discounts to capture the attention of early-season planners.

Why is National Shop For Travel Day important?

Planning travel early in the year provides a significant psychological and financial advantage. Having a trip on the calendar gives individuals a tangible event to look forward to, which can improve morale during the colder winter months. From a practical standpoint, booking several months in advance often results in lower airfares and a wider selection of available accommodations. This day focuses on the value of being proactive rather than waiting for last-minute options that may be more expensive or less desirable.

The day also emphasizes the critical role of technology in modern exploration. Consumers now have the power to view 360-degree videos of hotel rooms and read thousands of peer reviews before spending any money. This transparency builds confidence and allows for a more personalized experience, whether someone is looking for a remote camping spot or a luxury urban hotel. National Shop For Travel Day celebrates this accessibility, making it easier for people to find trips that fit their specific budgets and interests.

• Early booking often leads to better seating and room availability.
• Planning a trip provides a mental boost and something to anticipate.
• Travel technology allows for easy price comparisons across multiple platforms.
• This day highlights seasonal deals offered by airlines and cruise lines.
• Browsing reviews helps travelers make informed decisions about their safety and comfort.

How to Celebrate National Shop For Travel Day

Observing this day starts with a simple list of desired destinations and a realistic budget. Many people spend their lunch breaks or evenings researching different regions, checking flight schedules, and reading up on local attractions. It is a great time to download new travel apps that track currency exchange rates or provide offline maps. Comparing various types of lodging, such as traditional hotels versus vacation rentals, can help a traveler determine which environment best suits their needs for an upcoming journey.

For those not ready to book immediately, the day is an opportunity to organize travel documents and gear. Checking passport expiration dates and ensuring suitcases are in good repair prevents stressful last-minute rushes later in the year. Many travelers use the day to sign up for airline loyalty programs or travel-specific newsletters to stay informed about future sales. Sharing travel dreams or past photos on social media using specific hashtags can also help spark inspiration and provide helpful tips for friends and family members.

• Create a “bucket list” of three places you want to visit this year.
• Check your passport and identification to ensure they are still valid.
• Download a new travel planning or language translation app.
• Research the best times of year to visit your top-choice destination.
• Compare prices for different dates to find the most cost-effective travel window.

National Shop For Travel Day Dates Table