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Families ditch screens as unplugged holidays become the new travel norm

From nature retreats to print books, travelers are trading screens for serenity. The urge to disconnect is reshaping vacations—and even hotels are adapting.

The image shows a poster with text and a logo that reads "Over 15 million households enrolled to...
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Families ditch screens as unplugged holidays become the new travel norm

More families are choosing to unplug during holidays, with over half now setting no-screen-time rules on trips. This shift reflects a broader trend as travellers increasingly seek rest and time away from digital distractions. Even those who don’t usually focus on wellness are joining in, showing the growing appeal of analog experiences. The move toward screen-free travel has gained momentum in recent years. A 2025 report from the Global Wellness Summit highlighted analog wellness as one of the top 10 travel trends. Properties are responding by offering more low-stimulation environments, analog activities, and programming designed to reduce digital dependence.

Research shows that 58% of families now enforce no-screen periods while on vacation, regardless of whether they identify as wellness travellers. For many, the urge to check phones fades by the second day of a screen-free break. Meanwhile, 84% of families plan to prioritise device-free playtime together this year. The trend extends beyond family trips. A total of 76% of global travellers are considering nature or mountain escapes in 2025, with 56% citing rest and recharge as their main reason for travel. Even print book sales have climbed for two straight years, staying above pre-pandemic levels—a sign that people are embracing offline activities more widely.

Digital detox travel is no longer a niche interest but a mainstream preference. Hotels and resorts are adapting by providing more analog amenities to meet demand. With families and solo travellers alike seeking breaks from screens, the shift toward unplugged holidays looks set to continue.

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