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May 6 (Reuters) - Hotel operator Marriott International MAR.O raised its room revenue growth forecast for 2026 on Wednesday, betting that strong travel demand in the U.S. would drive bookings for its properties.

After a challenging year in which inflation and growth worries pinched customer budgets, U.S. travel is regaining momentum, a shift echoed in airlines' latest results.

Travel spending in March grew at its strongest pace in the past 12 months, according to the U.S. Travel Association.

The Bethesda, Maryland-based company expects 2026 revenue per available room (revPAR) — a key lodging metric that tracks average daily rate and occupancy — to grow between 2% and 3%, compared with its prior forecast of a 1.5% to 2.5% increase. Its shares rose 1.3% in premarket trading.

RevPAR in its U.S. and Canada luxury properties increased 6.8% for the first quarter, as economically resilient affluent travelers continued to spend on luxury stays.

U.S. hotels are optimistic about international tourism, expecting an influx of visitors ahead of the FIFA World Cup, set to take place in June and July this year.

Last week, Hilton also reported growth in room revenue and occupancy for its luxury as well as budget and middle-market hotels.