Summary of this article
Gen Z plans more trips with tighter budgets
Booking stress rises amid rising costs and choices
Experiences and sustainability shape travel decisions
India's Gen Z is ready to travel more in 2026, but financial caution and planning-induced stress are shaping the way they book their trips. While a majority intend to increase international travel, most are not planning on increasing their budgets proportionately. At the same time, booking anxiety, cost pressures, and decision overload are slowing down confirmations, even as experiences and sustainability are still at the centre of their travel choices.
According to Skyscanner research, titled Gen Z Travel Statistics and Trends, 87 per cent of Gen Z travelers in India find booking trips overwhelming, compared to 52 per cent of travellers globally across all age groups. The results present a generation that is excited about travel but wary of spending and often under stress while planning travel.
More Trips, Tighter Budgets
Nearly 59 per cent of Indian Gen Z say that they plan on travelling abroad more in 2026. However, only 44 per cent expect to spend more on accommodation. The difference shows an effort to increase frequency without a proportionate increase in expenses.
Across the world, 52 per cent of Gen Z travellers make at least three leisure trips a year. To control costs, 62 per cent use apps and digital platforms to get better deals. In India, 56 per cent made financial sacrifices for their last holiday. About 48 per cent cut back on new clothes purchases, and 31 per cent reduced cab usage to save for travelling.
Compromises continue during trips. Around 37 per cent are willing to choose budget stays over something more comfortable, and 36 per cent would take a shorter trip if it meant stretching their holiday budget further.
Nearly 48 per cent say they would travel with a family member if it made the trip more affordable. Globally, 21 per cent use credit card rewards, while 46 per cent have financial support from their parents to help them pay for their travels.
Decision Overload And Planning Pressures
Cost is also the number one stress factor for 49 per cent of young Indian travellers. Deciding where to go is also a challenge for 43 per cent. Visa requirements introduce another level of complexity, with 57 per cent of Gen Z globally describing them as stressful.
Booking delays are common. Around 64 per cent of young Indian travellers heading into 2026 had not booked their travel as they were still deciding on dates. While 13 per cent were waiting for last-minute deals, 18 per cent said they were feeling overwhelmed by the number of available options.
Workplace factors also impact travel plans. About 67 per cent of Gen Z in India have a hard time availing their annual leave, which is considerably higher than the global average of 39 per cent across all age groups. The combination of limited time, fluctuating prices, and multiple choices plays a role in hesitation, despite strong travel intent.
Culture, Cuisine, And Connection
Even in the face of financial and planning pressures, experiences are the primary driver. Globally, 65 per cent of Gen Z claim that seeing the world is the best way to spend their money.
Food is also a decisive factor while choosing a destination. Around 61 per cent of Gen Z said that food was the most important factor when they chose a holiday destination. Weather as a decisive factor stood at 57 per cent, and shopping at 39 per cent.
Among young Indians, 45 per cent visited local supermarkets to find out the products that are unavailable at home, and 54 per cent stated that food helps them to understand the local culture.
Cultural and social experiences are also top priorities this year. Around 27 per cent are planning on attending concerts or gigs while travelling, and 24 per cent plan on visiting libraries or bookshops. More than 52 per cent travelled overseas specifically to meet new people. Additionally, 41 per cent have bought local beauty products in foreign countries that are not available in their home market.
Greener Goals, Grounded Getaways
Environmental considerations are becoming a greater factor in finalising destinations. Globally, 56 per cent of Gen Z would rather support environmentally responsible companies, even if it costs them more. The same percentage actively seek eco-friendly accommodation.
Outdoor travel features strongly in their plans. Compared to older age-groups, Gen Z is more likely to plan activities such as hiking, wildlife spotting, and water sports. Among the Indian respondents, 92 per cent are either planning or would consider booking a summer/autumn mountain trip in 2026.
Spending decisions indicate climate awareness. Around 23 per cent of Indian Gen Z say they would pay more to fly on a lower carbon emission route, while 19 per cent would consider carbon offsetting. Visiting gardens is also popular, with 86 per cent saying they like or love to include gardens in their itineraries.
