Flexible planning, offbeat destinations, and strong demand trends signal resilience in travel sector

Indian travellers are demonstrating strong confidence heading into the summer season, with 77% expressing readiness to travel despite global geopolitical and economic uncertainties, according to a recent report by Skyscanner.

The survey, conducted among 2,000 respondents, highlights a robust travel outlook, with nearly 90% of Indians either planning or having already booked their summer 2026 holidays. The findings point to sustained demand and evolving consumer behaviour in the travel ecosystem.

 Strong Demand Reflects Consumer Confidence

The report underscores that travel remains a priority spending category for Indian consumers:

• High intent to travel despite global volatility
• Early bookings indicating planning confidence
• Continued growth across both leisure and business travel

Domestic corporate travel is also emerging as a key growth segment, supported by economic expansion and increasing multi-city business operations.

 Flexibility Drives Modern Travel Behaviour

A major shift observed is the growing emphasis on flexibility and value-conscious decision-making:

• Around 30% of travellers are willing to switch destinations instead of cancelling plans
• Increased sensitivity to airfare changes and travel costs
• Preference for adaptable itineraries

According to Neel Ghose, travellers are becoming more strategic—balancing cost, convenience, and experience rather than abandoning travel altogether.

 Shift Towards Offbeat and Affordable Destinations

Indian travellers are increasingly moving away from overcrowded hotspots:

• 81% show interest in lesser-known destinations
• 60% prefer quieter, less crowded locations

 Popular International Destinations:

• Bangkok
• Phuket
• Denpasar

🇮🇳 Emerging Domestic Hotspots:

• Kozhikode
• Diu
• Puducherry
• Jammu

These destinations appeal to travellers seeking cost-effective, unique, and less crowded experiences.

 Corporate Travel Remains a Key Growth Driver

Business travel continues to gain traction, driven by:

• Expanding corporate activity
• Increased inter-city collaboration
• Hybrid work models requiring travel flexibility

This segment is expected to contribute significantly to overall travel demand in FY27.

 Rise of Conscious and Experience-Led Travel

Indian travellers are increasingly prioritising meaningful and responsible travel experiences:

• 9 in 10 travellers prefer spending that supports local economies
• Growing interest in community-based tourism
• Preference for authentic, culturally immersive experiences