With remote and hybrid work models solidifying their place in the corporate world, incentive trips have evolved from a luxury to a necessity for keeping teams inspired and connected. In 2025, we saw companies step up their investment in these experiences, with spending soaring by 54% and businesses investing an average of $4,900 per person to celebrate top talent.

As we look ahead to 2026, the question becomes: what's next? Last year, BizBash teamed up with our Senior Director of Operations for Meetings & Incentives, Ashley Case, to explore the trends shaping incentive travel. The core takeaway remains true: today's incentive trips must be thoughtfully designed to go beyond simple recognition, leaving employees wowed, energized, and motivated for the long haul. Building on that foundation, let's dive into the six key trends shaping the future of incentive travel in 2026.

1. THE RISE OF EXCLUSIVE TRAVEL

Exclusivity is the new standard. Companies are refining qualification criteria, creating smaller groups and ultra-luxury experiences that feel carefully curated just for each attendee. This shift is not about giving out another award; it is about delivering moments that are truly unforgettable. Smaller groups make it possible to add personal touches and provide access that feels out of reach on a typical vacation. When people feel like they are part of something rare and special, the sense of reward and recognition hits harder and stays with them longer.
When team members are already checking off bucket-list destinations on their own, incentive trips need to go the extra mile. The programs that stand out create moments with a once-in-a-lifetime allure that attendees could not replicate on their own.
**Pro Tip:** *Consider adding one unexpected experience or local insider moment that attendees could not easily book themselves to make the trip truly unforgettable.*

2. PERsonalization AS the standard

The future of experiences is all about personalization, and we're seeing a growing trend toward deconstructed options—customization is king! Even meals are shifting to "build your own" formats, giving everyone the freedom to tailor their experience. Also gone are the days of one-size-fits-all itineraries. Today's attendees crave choice, and personalized options are now trending. Whether it's adrenaline-packed hang gliding or calming sound therapy, offering a "choose-your-own-adventure" style of rewards empowers attendees to create experiences that truly matter to them.
These special moments aren't just about having fun—they're about making sure everyone feels seen and appreciated. Smaller, more personal group activities help create deeper connections and spark meaningful conversations, giving everyone stories and memories to share back with the bigger group.
**Pro Tip:** Consider offering "Pen-Pal" experiences where attendees connect with local guides for intimate activities like cooking traditional dishes or creating art. These highly personal experiences leave a lasting impression—attendees make a friend in the destination and can take home a meaningful memento.

3. A BALANCE OF leisure & networking

Have you ever been on a business trip where every single minute is planned out? Exhausting, right? Now imagine an incentive trip that feels the same—doesn't sound much like a reward, does it? Incentive trips should be about unwinding and making real connections. These days, attendees are craving something better: more flexibility, more time to recharge, and way fewer back-to-back events.
The key is balancing company networking with personal downtime. Why? Because people value the freedom to relax and choose how to spend their time. The best incentive trips combine group activities, small gatherings, and plenty of free time. For example, a perfectly balanced day might feature small group adventures from morning to mid-afternoon, followed by free time in the late afternoon, and a large group gathering in the evening where the day’s events serve as natural conversation starters. It's all about creating fun, effortless moments that encourage engagement and connection!
**PRO TIP:** *Let attendees customize their schedules. Offer optional activities and free time blocks so everyone can tailor their experience to suit their needs. A little freedom goes a long way!*

4. embracING local culture

Resorts are great, but the real magic of an incentive trip lies in the destination. Today's travelers want to explore the area and connect with its culture. They prioritize authentic, eco-conscious experiences that make a positive impact on the local community.
We recently helped turn an ordinary welcome reception in Hawaii into something truly special—a lively market featuring local artists and farmers! Guests got to "shop" for amazing locally crafted goods like honey, hot sauces, chocolate, coffee, kukui leis, kapa fabric and skincare crafted from local ingredients. We collaborated with the chef at the resort to showcase local farmers' produce, as well as products from local distillers and brewers. Each had a presence at the "farmer’s market-style" food stations, where they engaged with guests, talked about their product, businesses and island life. It left everyone feeling connected to the destination and made a positive impact on the community along the way. Companies are embracing this trend by working with local DMCs (Destination Management Companies) to plan activations that respect the environment while helping support the community.
**PRO TIP:** Pre-trip webinars are becoming increasingly popular, educating attendees on everything from local etiquette to traditional customs. It could be as simple as understanding how to greet someone properly or knowing what to pack for activities that involve religious or cultural traditions.

5. wellness AS a must-have

Wellness isn't just a bonus anymore, it's becoming an essential part of modern travel programs. From early morning yoga sessions and walking groups to immersive experiences like sound baths or wellness lounges, attendees now seek options that cater to the mind, body, and soul.
Programs are increasingly looking at wellness from diverse angles, offering unique touches like redlight and compression therapy, wrist stickers and supplements that feed individual needs (energy, focus, relaxation), meditation spaces, and activities, and vibration therapy. Arrival experiences, such as welcome lounges featuring relaxing touches like hand and foot massagers, eye masks and mini facials set a calming tone after long journeys. Designing events around wellness ensures attendees feel cared for, creating a memorable experience of relaxation and positivity.
**PRO TIP:** Provide options tailored to individual needs. Include wellness activities such as yoga, sound baths, or a dedicated "wellness lounge." A customized itinerary lets guests recharge or engage on their own terms.

6. plan for trending destinations

No incentive trip is complete without experiences that wow your team and deliver unforgettable, share-worthy moments. For 2026, the buzz is all about spectacular destinations and exclusive experiences. Here's your guide to the top trends and must-visit spots:
• **Multi-Hotel Compounds:** Ideal for tiered incentive programs, multi-hotel compounds offer the perfect blend of group connectivity and VIP-level luxury. These properties accommodate shared events and activities while pampering top performers with exceptional exclusivity. Mayakoba and the newly launched Kanai stand out with their ultra-luxury communities. *(Property picks: Etéreo, Auberge Collection, alongside St. Regis, Mandarin Oriental, and Edition)*
• **Domestic Ranches & Mountain Escapes:** For a rustic yet refined vibe, consider destinations that offer wide-open landscapes paired with elevated accommodations. These settings deliver a sense of escape and exclusivity while still providing polished service—perfect for groups looking to disconnect, recharge, and reconnect in a naturally stunning environment. (Property picks: The Resort at Paws Up, Montage Big Sky, Beaver Creek, or Four Seasons Jackson Hole)

Los Cabos: Los Cabos continues to introduce new luxury resorts that deliver high-touch service alongside warm ocean breezes—perfect for energizing attendees. With easy, short flights from the U.S. and undeniable appeal (who doesn’t love a world-class margarita?), it’s an easy win. (Property picks: Four Seasons Los Cabos, Montage Los Cabos)
Lisbon, Portugal: Lisbon blends timeless charm with vibrant modern energy, creating a city that feels alive with possibility. Cobblestone streets, sun-soaked plazas, and standout Portuguese cuisine make it an inspiring destination that naturally brings people together.
Costa Rica: From lush rainforests to postcard-worthy beaches, Costa Rica is a playground for teams craving both adventure and downtime. With endless ways to explore or unwind, it’s a destination that leaves groups genuinely recharged and amazed. (Property pick: The Ritz-Carlton Reserve Nekajui, Costa Rica)
The Dominican Republic: The Dominican Republic keeps appearing on our sourcing list, and for good reason. With stunning beaches, upscale resorts, and growing meeting infrastructure, it’s a rising favorite for events that are both easy to plan and attend. (Property pick: Four Seasons Resort & Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia, set to open early 2026)

PRO TIP: For companies with diverse teams across the U.S., alternating between East Coast and West Coast-friendly locations makes travel more manageable (and keeps everyone happy).

The evolution of incentive trips opens up exciting opportunities for planners to think outside the box and design experiences that truly resonate. By prioritizing personalization, cultural immersion, wellness, and a thoughtful blend of leisure and connection, these trips are no longer just rewards. They're becoming memorable moments that inspire, unite, and spark stories worth sharing for years to come!