From “coolcations” to “gig tripping” to “JOMO travel,” the number of travel trends is seemingly endless these days.
Amid the upsetting news headlines and general stress of 2025, one approach to travel feels particularly appealing: townsizing.
But what exactly is townsizing, and how does it work? Below, experts break down the benefits and downsides of this approach to travel.
What is townsizing?
“Townsizing is a travel trend in which people are opting to visit smaller towns, often lesser-known destinations, instead of major cities or historically popular, touristy destinations,” said Laura Lindsay, a global travel trends expert at Skyscanner. “Townsizing is all about discovering charming small towns over a bustling city.”
Although the concept is hardly new, the term townsizing originated in Priceline’s “Where To Next?” 2025 travel trends report, released in October.
“Our research shows that 67% of young travelers see vacation as a chance to live out their small-town dreams ― and townsizing makes that happen,” Priceline’s consumer travel trends expert Christina Bennett told HuffPost. “It offers a unique opportunity to still explore, while also unplugging and soaking in a cozy, authentic vibe that only a townsizing destination can offer.”
This kind of travel is all about going at a leisurely pace, living like locals and savoring simple pleasures like scenic strolls or diner meals.
“It’s not about the many things to check off but about slowing down and enjoying the everyday life moments from being in this place,” said travel blogger Isabel Leong. “It’s choosing to visit smaller towns that are off the usual tourist radar. As life gets more hectic and the demands increase, many are choosing to vacation to relax, not to plan a big trip involving extensive research. There’s no better way than to go to one place and have no set agenda.”
She pointed to smaller destinations she’s enjoyed in the past, including Bansko, Bulgaria, and Fox Glacier, New Zealand. As for domestic travel, tourists interested in townsizing might consider places like Crested Butte, Colorado; East Aurora, New York; Hill City, South Dakota; Carmel-by-the-Sea, California; Black Mountain, North Carolina and Cape May, New Jersey.
Bruno Baggetta, the director of Market New Haven, touted the merits of walkable streets, local shops, small museums and family-owned restaurants.
“Travelers tired of the constant movement and stimulation of a big city…
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