The New Era of Intentional Travel
The initial post-pandemic surge, often called 'revenge travel', was a frantic rush to make up for lost time. That impulsive wave has now settled into a more deliberate, sustained demand for international journeys. According to travel industry experts,
the chaos of revenge travel is over, replaced by a more intentional approach. Indian travellers are no longer just ticking boxes off a list of familiar destinations like Dubai or Bangkok. Instead, there's a growing curiosity for deeper, more culturally immersive experiences, with destinations like Japan, Kenya, and even less-travelled parts of Europe gaining significant interest. This shift suggests that for many, travel has transformed from a discretionary luxury into a non-negotiable part of a fulfilling life.
Experiences Over Everything
A fundamental change is underway in Indian consumer behaviour, particularly among younger generations like Gen Z. A recent report from CBRE highlights that by 2030, spending on experiences like travel, dining, and leisure is projected to grow faster than spending on physical goods. This shift was accelerated by the pandemic, which created a deep-seated desire to seize the moment and create lasting memories. For a growing segment of the population, the value of a unique travel experience now outweighs the cost of the ticket. This mindset is reflected in booking trends, which show a move towards longer, more luxurious holidays and a willingness to spend more for comfort and unique activities. The average budget for trips has increased, signalling that those who can afford to travel are prioritising quality and depth over just finding the cheapest deal.
The Two Sides of the Economic Coin
While it's true that airfares have climbed significantly, this is happening alongside a rise in disposable incomes for India's upper and middle classes. The Indian outbound tourism market is projected to be worth USD 23.4 billion in 2026 and is expected to grow at a remarkable 11.4% annually over the next decade. For this demographic, while the higher prices are noticeable, they haven't made international travel unaffordable. However, the story is different for budget-conscious travellers, who are feeling the pinch. The surge in costs is driven by multiple factors, including rising jet fuel prices due to geopolitical tensions, airspace restrictions that create longer routes, and limited airline capacity struggling to meet high demand. Airlines have been passing these costs to consumers through higher base fares and fuel surcharges, making budget international travel increasingly difficult.
Where Are Indians Headed?
The travel map for Indians is expanding. While short-haul destinations in Southeast Asia like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia remain popular due to their proximity and relative affordability, there's a clear trend towards more diverse locations. Visa-free access to countries like Sri Lanka, Mauritius, and the Seychelles also makes them attractive options. Simultaneously, there is record interest in African safaris in countries like Kenya and Tanzania, and cultural trips to Japan are being booked months in advance. Even Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan are emerging as popular, affordable destinations. This diversification shows that Indian travellers are becoming more adventurous, seeking unique stories and experiences beyond the conventional European and Southeast Asian circuits.
