UK youth, student and educational travel businesses are more confident than they were in the spring, although they still expect international visitor volumes in 2026 to fall short of last year, according to the latest BETA Business Barometer.
On average, members forecast that international youth travel to the UK in 2026 will reach 92% of 2025 volumes, up from the 84% forecast in April. This is an expectation for the year, rather than a count of visitors already recorded.
Business confidence has improved across all three periods measured by the survey. Members scored their confidence at 5.6 out of 10 for the next three months, 6.2 for the next 12 months and 6.8 for the next 24 months. All three scores are higher than in the previous survey, although they remain below the levels recorded at this time last year.
For the next few months, no change is the most common expectation for both customer numbers and turnover. Slightly more members expect a decline than an increase, and respondents still expect performance to be below what is normal for this time of year.
The geopolitical situation remains the barrier to profitable growth most often described as a major concern. Members also cited visa and border entry procedures, consumer confidence and staff costs. The Middle East is the source market causing the greatest concern, with increased caution around travel and higher air fares among the effects reported by businesses.
Emma English, Executive Director of BETA, said:
“The improvement since April is encouraging, but the average forecast still points to a year below 2025 levels. Many businesses are managing uncertain demand while dealing with rising costs and barriers to travel.
“We are also mindful of recent events in the English language teaching sector. Our thoughts are with the students, staff and partners affected. It is vital that the UK remains accessible and competitive for young people who want to study and travel here, and for the businesses that welcome them.”
The BETA Business Barometer tracks performance, expectations and confidence across the UK youth, student and educational travel sector.
The latest survey drew responses from more than half of eligible BETA members and was independently analysed by David Edwards, founder of Scattered Clouds and former Head of Research at VisitBritain.
BETA members can access the full BBB report via the Member Resource Centre. Non-members interested in joining can contact info@betauk.com.
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Author: Helen Leigh
