Global data from the Unpack ’26 travel trends report shows travellers are embracing farm stays and slow travel experiences. 

Oct. 16, 2025, AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – As travellers increasingly seek peace, simplicity, and connection to nature, Bookabach is seeing a significant rise in demand for “Farm Charm” — a growing trend in holiday rentals that offer rural experiences. According to the Unpack ’26 travel trends report, mentions of farm-related experiences in Bookabach guest reviews have skyrocketed by 300% year-over-year, with 90% of Kiwi travellers expressing interest in staying on or near a farm in 2026.* 

“One guest review pointed out collecting eggs is a great way to teach city kids where breakfast comes from, and another guest said their Bookabach was like living in a nature documentary,” said Haley Purdon, Director at Expedia Group. “The “Farm Charm’ trend reflects travellers’ desire for what they can’t get elsewhere, whether it’s picking their own apples or eating dinner in a candlelit garden.”  

Farm Charm holiday rentals invite travellers to disconnect and immerse themselves in rural life. From sunrise hikes to hands-on gardening, these stays offer a refreshing alternative to fast-paced itineraries. Top activities among travellers include: 

• Hiking trails (74%) 

• Animal interactions such as collecting eggs, feeding animals, or birdwatching (63%) 

• Gardening or harvesting produce (43%) 

Top Farm Charm Finds on Bookabach:  

• Kanuka Terrace — Canterbury, South Island, New Zealand 

• Romney Lane Homestead — Wanawatu, North Island, New Zealand  

• Magical Vineyard Cottage — Blenheim, South Island, New Zealand  

• Arrow Wood — Otago, South Island, New Zealand  

• Barnstyle Eco Lodge — Raglan, North Island, New Zealand 

From the rolling hills of England to the greenery of California, these holiday homes offer immersive farm experiences that combine rustic charm with modern comfort.  

Explore more rental properties with Farm Charm here. 

Expert Travel Tip: Use Bookabach’s filters to zero in on properties that match exact requirements and find discounted holiday rentals using the “early booking” or “last-minute booking” filters.  

*Bookabach — Farm Charm 

 Bookabach guest review increase based on global data from May 2023 to April 2024 vs. May 2024 to April 2025. 
Top Farm Charm finds on Bookabach based on global guest reviews with farm-related terms such as “farm” or “homestead.” 

*Third-Party Methodology  
Third-party research was conducted by market research partner OnePoll in accordance with the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. The Study was conducted online among 24,000 adult respondents across 18 countries, who are planning domestic or international travel in the next three years. Gen Z respondents are defined as those aged 18 to 24, while the combined Gen Z and Millennial group includes all respondents aged 18 to 44. 

About Unpack ’26 

Q: What is Unpack ’26? 
A: Unpack ’26 is the annual global travel insights report from Expedia Group, building on years of trend forecasting and traveller behavior analysis. It draws on first-party data from Expedia and Bookabach, along with insights from 24,000 travellers across 18 countries, making it one of the most comprehensive travel trend reports in the industry. 

Q: What makes Unpack ’26 a credible source for travel trends? 
A: The report combines real-time platform data from millions of users with third-party research conducted by OnePoll, following the Market Research Society’s Code of Conduct. Its findings are backed by behavioral insights, booking patterns, and cultural signals, making it a trusted resource for media, industry leaders, and travellers alike. 

Q: Where can I access the full Unpack ’26 report and assets? 
A: Visit www.expedia.co.nz/newsroom for the full Unpack ’26 report, downloadable assets, and brand-specific insights from Expedia and Bookabach.