Expedia Group, in collaboration with PredictHQ, has unveiled new data highlighting a substantial rise in travel demand from the UK to North America ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The data, released just a month before the tournament, indicates a total traveller spend of over $8.1 billion across host cities from June to August 2026, marking a $750 million increase compared to the previous year.

The findings reveal a sharp increase in travel intent from the UK to three host cities: Boston, Monterrey, and Kansas City, with year-on-year growth rates of 530%, 445%, and 390% respectively. Kansas City and Monterrey are leading with significant increases in both travel and lodging intent, suggesting a strong interest from international fans.

Spillover markets are experiencing even greater surges than the host cities. For instance, San Francisco's surrounding areas, such as Contra Costa County and Oakland, have seen travel intent rise by 670% and 110% respectively. Similarly, Houston's nearby Montgomery County has climbed by 540%.

Brandon Ehrhardt, VP of Marketing for Travel Partners and Advertisers at Expedia Group, commented, “This tournament is creating opportunities far beyond the host cities, with interest rising from both international and domestic travellers. For nearby and spillover markets, that creates a chance to position early, reach high-value travellers with the right offers and packages, and turn event momentum into longer stays, higher-value bookings, and stronger traveller relationships.”

The data underscores the potential for destinations, hotels, and travel brands to capitalise on this burgeoning demand, particularly from international fans who are proving to be high-value travellers

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