60 per cent Indians prefer domestic holidays this summer
Travel demand remains high despite rising cost concerns
Safety, experiences and AI shape travel planning choices
60 per cent Indians prefer domestic holidays this summer
Travel demand remains high despite rising cost concerns
Safety, experiences and AI shape travel planning choices
A majority of Indian travellers are planning to holiday within the country this summer, making India the market with the strongest preference for domestic travel among the countries covered, stated the Allianz Partners Global Travel Confidence Index 2026. The report has revealed that 60 per cent of Indian respondents intend to travel within the country, compared with the global average of 42 per cent.
Travel demand also remains high. According to the report, 87 per cent of Indians plan to take a holiday this summer, significantly higher than the global average of 74 per cent.
Although travel continues to be a priority, many travellers are adjusting their spending plans.
The report has found that 82 per cent expect travel costs to rise, while 72 per cent said higher expenses have already led them to reduce or modify their vacation plans. A similar share said concerns about their personal finances influence their holiday decisions.
To make their tips possible, 76 per cent of respondents said they are cutting back on non-essential spending. The findings have revealed that while individuals are very keen to travel this summer, affordability is one of the key motivating factors while planning trips.
The survey showed a growing focus on travel protection. About 85 per cent of Indian travellers said they are likely to buy travel insurance for their summer holidays.
Among those considering travel insurance, 89 per cent said peace of mind and a sense of security were major reasons for purchasing a policy. The same proportion highlighted medical assistance and repatriation support as important benefits.
Demand for digital support services is also increasing. Nearly two-thirds, or 65 per cent, said they expect access to round-the-clock customer support and emergency assistance through mobile applications.
Many travellers are planning holidays around activities and events rather than destinations alone.
According to the report, 75 per cent are likely to attend concerts, festivals or performing arts events during their trips. Around 73 per cent are planning travel centred on specific events or experiences, while 71 per cent expect to attend sporting events while away.
Interest in leisure-focused travel remains strong. About 74 per cent said that they intend to pursue sports or hobbies during holidays, 73 per cent are considering wellness retreats or spa breaks, and 74 per cent expressed interest in cruises, expedition travel or riverboat holidays.
Travellers are paying close attention to risks that could affect their journeys.
About 85 per cent have mentioned that they are concerned about geopolitical developments, while 83 per cent stated that factors such as geopolitical uncertainty and stricter border rules highly influence their choice of destination. Another 84 per cent said environmental risks and extreme weather conditions play a role in travel planning.
Technology is also becoming more important in holiday planning. Around 82 per cent of respondents said they have used or plan to use artificial intelligence tools to help organise their trips.
Flexible travel arrangements continue to gain traction as well. The survey found that 77 per cent plan to work remotely away from home for a period of time, while 73 per cent expect to combine work and leisure during their travels.