BLK, a dating and social app for the Black community, has released its Summer Travel Report, revealing that rest, romance and solo travel are shaping summer trips for 2026.
Based on a survey of 1,000 users, the report found that travelers are embracing independence, prioritizing relaxation and remaining open to making new connections while traveling. Following are more highlights from the study.
Solo Travel
Solo travel is leading the way for Black travelers, with 36% of respondents planning to take a trip alone. Traveling with friends followed at 21%, while 20% plan to travel with a partner and 19% with family.
“Solo travel is a bold statement of freedom for our community,” said Amber Cooper, head of brand for BLK. “Black travelers are claiming space to reconnect with themselves, and staying open to who they might meet along the way.”
Summer Romance
Seventy-eight percent of Black American travelers say they are open to a hookup or casual romance while traveling. Of those, 43% say it’s part of the fun of travel, while another 35% indicate they’re open if the connection is right. Only about one in seven respondents say they are not interested at all.
This openness to romance extends beyond the trip. Eighty percent of respondents would consider a long-distance relationship with someone they meet while traveling, and 71% say travel makes them more open to meeting someone new than they are at home.
“There’s something about leaving home that opens people up,” said Cooper. “Our community travels ready for connection, whether that’s a spontaneous fling, a summer romance or something that outlasts the flight home. And our travelers aren’t afraid of a little distance to keep a good thing going.”
Rest Takes Priority
Relaxation is Black travelers’ top motivation this summer, cited by 55% of respondents. Seeking new experiences came in second at 14%, followed by visiting friends and family at 13%. Another 6% are planning a romantic getaway, while 5% want to explore a new city and 4% are traveling to attend events or festivals.
Travelers are also favoring shorter, closer adventures. Weekend getaways are the most popular, with 31% of travelers planning one. Road trips follow at 15%, ahead of international trips at 14%, solo trips at 11% and “baecations” at 10%.
Where They’re Going
Among domestic destinations, Las Vegas topped the list, followed by Miami; New York City; Chicago; Atlanta; New Orleans; Orlando, Florida; Houston; Los Angeles; Puerto Rico; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Internationally, Jamaica took first place, followed by Nigeria, the Bahamas, Paris, Mexico, Toronto, Aruba, the Dominican Republic and Italy.
Barriers to Travel
Cost remains the biggest obstacle to travel, with 37% citing affordability as their primary barrier. Seventeen percent say that not having someone to travel with is their biggest hurdle. Meanwhile, 28% say nothing is preventing them from traveling this summer.
