The Soaring Cost of a Getaway
Planning a holiday in 2026 feels more expensive, and it’s not just your imagination. Indian airlines, including major carriers like IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air, have recently increased fuel surcharges in response to rising Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF)
prices. This fuel accounts for a significant chunk of an airline's operating costs, sometimes up to 40%, and global price hikes are being passed on to passengers. For domestic travellers, these surcharges can add up to ₹1,200 to a ticket, while some long-haul international routes to North America have seen surcharges as high as $215 (around ₹18,000). These mandatory fees, combined with strong festive season demand and a weaker rupee, have led to a noticeable spike in the overall cost of travel, forcing many to take a harder look at their holiday budgets.
Shorter Trips, More Often
The direct consequence of these higher costs is a potential shift in vacation length. Instead of the traditional long annual holiday, a new trend is emerging: taking multiple, shorter breaks throughout the year. Data from travel companies shows that the average festive trip now lasts about two nights. Faced with a round-trip ticket to a domestic destination like Bagdogra now costing ₹22,000, up from ₹15,000 last year, some travellers are postponing or cancelling trips. Others are adapting. Experts predict that while the desire to travel remains strong, many will opt for shorter, more selective vacations to manage the financial strain. This has also led to a rise in spontaneous travel, with three in ten festive travellers booking on their day of check-in, making the most of last-minute opportunities for a quick getaway.
A Pivot to Domestic Delights and Closer Shores
As international fares climb, many Indian travellers are turning their attention inwards. There's a growing preference for exploring India's own diverse landscapes, from the mountains of Himachal to the beaches of Goa and the backwaters of Kerala. This pivot to domestic tourism is being driven by both cost and a renewed interest in local exploration. For those still keen on an international stamp in their passport, short-haul destinations are becoming increasingly popular. Countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Thailand, which are closer and often more budget-friendly, are emerging as attractive alternatives to pricier long-haul trips to Europe or the US. The rise of visa-free or easy visa access to several of these nations further boosts their appeal, allowing for more accessible and affordable foreign experiences.
Smart Strategies for the Savvy Traveller
Despite the rising costs, Indians are proving to be resilient and adaptable, finding new ways to satisfy their wanderlust. Rather than cancelling trips altogether, many are becoming smarter planners. Booking flights four to six weeks in advance can lead to significant savings, as prices tend to spike within the last week before departure. Travellers are also reshuffling their budgets, perhaps spending less on shopping or luxury hotels to afford the flight. Other popular strategies include travelling during the 'shoulder season'—the period just before or after the peak tourist season—to take advantage of lower fares and less crowded destinations. Flexibility is key; flying mid-week on a Tuesday or Wednesday can be 12-20% cheaper than on a weekend, and early morning departures often carry a substantial discount.
