Paysafe Research: Experience-Led Spending Reshapes Summer Travel in 2026

Nearly half of travellers (45%) abandon purchases due to payment issues as 50% prioritise experiences over shopping

New research from Paysafe (NYSE:PSFE) reveals that the 2026 summer travel season is being defined by strong demand and a decisive shift toward experience-led spending, with payments playing an increasingly central role in shaping how consumers plan, book, and spend while travelling.

The Experience Economy Report 2026 – Summer Travel surveyed 4,500 consumers across the US, UK, Canada, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and Spain who are planning leisure travel this summer, uncovering how travel behaviours and payment preferences are evolving in an experience-focused economy.

Experience-led travel dominates spending priorities