Long weekend drives higher consumer spend on short getaways, say experts

The Republic Day long weekend, falling from January 23–26, is emerging as a key driver of discretionary spending among Indian consumers, with short getaways, curated experiences, and flexible bookings reflecting evolving financial behaviour.

Industry experts report strong demand and higher spending patterns as travellers leverage the extended break for short, high-value leisure trips.

Vaibhav Gupta, General Manager at The Astor Goa, said, “The first long weekend of the year positioned Goa as one of India’s strongest travel rebound markets, with domestic searches for January 23–26 up nearly 30% and hotels operating at 75–85% occupancy.”

Richa Adhia, Managing Director at Eight Continents Hotels & Resorts, added that “destinations that offer a balance of accessibility, experiences, and relaxation are witnessing the highest traction,” indicating that consumers are prioritising value-led getaways over longer, traditional vacations.

Similarly, Somesh Agarwal, Managing Director & Chairman at Radisson Blu Palace Resort & Spa, Udaipur, noted that travellers are opting for longer, experience-led stays, reflecting a shift from price-focused to experience-driven spending.

Luxury properties are seeing a willingness among guests to pay more for personalised experiences and curated offerings.

The Leela Palace New Delhi highlighted Republic Day–specific experiences, including ceremonial observances and signature dining, targeting premium spenders.

Athiva Hotels & Resorts’ Rachit Gupta said, “The long-weekend effect is clearly playing out, with a noticeable rise in short, high-value getaways. Booking windows have shortened, with most reservations coming within 7–10 days, and travellers actively seeking tailored experiences.”

Online travel platforms show parallel trends.

Rajnish Kumar, Group Co-CEO of ixigo, reported flight searches up 30% YoY, with growing interest in heritage, leisure, and spiritual destinations.

Manjari Singal, Chief Growth and Business Officer at Cleartrip, noted that Gen Z is fuelling this surge, with international bookings growing 73% YoY and domestic travel up over 20%. Short-haul bus bookings on popular metro routes also rose 1.5 times YoY, highlighting the growing spending and planning for nearby escapes.

Rahool Macarius, Market Managing Director at Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, emphasised the financial impact of heightened demand.

“Average Daily Rates have risen by approximately 40% compared to standard weekends,” showing that premium pricing aligns with willingness to spend for convenience and curated experiences," he said.

KB Kachru, President of the Hotel Association of India, added that travellers are choosing wellness-led, immersive stays, reflecting a shift in discretionary allocation towards mental and experiential value.

Cox & Kings has recorded nearly a 20% increase in bookings for the long weekend versus a regular January weekend. Director Karan Agarwal observed, “Travellers are planning smarter, choosing destinations that allow them to truly switch off, and valuing curated experiences that remove the stress from short holidays.” The company also reported a 15–18% rise in average spend per booking, as travellers invest in better accommodations, guided tours, and structured itineraries.

Data from MakeMyTrip shows the Monday holiday has acted as a strong catalyst for travel, compared to last year when Republic Day fell on a Sunday. Rajesh Magow, Co-founder & Group CEO of MakeMyTrip, said,

“The appetite for weekend travel remains strong, with the extended Republic Day weekend presenting an opportunity for travel. There is a preference for nearby destinations, with Goa remaining the favourite leisure spot domestically, while Thailand and Vietnam continue to lead international demand.”

Arjun Baljee, Founder of ICONIQA and President of Royal Orchid Hotels, noted a shorter booking cycle, with most reservations made within 7–10 days of travel, reinforcing the trend of spontaneous yet high-value spending.

The data stresses a broader shift: long weekends like Republic Day are no longer just leisure breaks—they are occasions for households to allocate discretionary income towards premium experiences, both domestic and international.