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Albin Loidl – Image Credit ITB Berlin
Germans spent a record 88 billion euros on travel bookings last year, with early bookings and demand for package holidays and cruises contributing to industry growth, according to statements by German Travel Association (DRV) President Albin Loidl at ITB Berlin 2026.
At the opening of ITB Berlin 2026, Albin Loidl, President of the German Travel Association (DRV), reported that Germans spent 88 billion euros on travel bookings last year, a five percent increase over the previous year and 20 billion euros more than before the pandemic. Holidaymakers are booking earlier and placing greater emphasis on safety and quality.
The travel industry is closely monitoring developments in Iran, with the safety of travelers and employees as a top priority for tour operators. Loidl expressed hope for de-escalation and a diplomatic solution.
The eastern Mediterranean and Spain remain the main summer travel destinations. The package holiday market grew by over nine percent, reaching 43.4 billion euros, with nearly half of all travel spending going to tour operators. Loidl attributed this growth to increased demand for security, transparent costs, protection against financial losses, and professional support during crises.
Despite higher travel spending, Loidl noted a more cautious approach to spending at destinations, with spending on restaurants and excursions declining. All-inclusive packages are on the rise, with travelers saving money at their destinations.
The early booking trend observed in 2025 is continuing in 2026, with summer sales already seven percent higher than last year and traveler numbers up by four percent. Cruises and package flights are expected to be the mainstay of summer travel, supported by transparent pricing and all-inclusive packages. Air travel sales increased by 14 percent and air passenger numbers by 12 percent.
Loidl emphasized the interdependence of the travel industry and air transport and called for attractive and affordable domestic flights to maintain Germany’s competitiveness in the tourism sector.
