Indian travellers remain among the world’s most enthusiastic holidaymakers this summer, outpacing the global average in vacation planning
Indian travellers remain among the world’s most enthusiastic holidaymakers this year, with 87 pc planning a summer vacation, significantly above the global average of 74 pc, while rising travel costs, geopolitical uncertainty, climate concerns and digital trends are increasingly influencing how people plan and experience travel, according to the Allianz Partners Travel Index 2026.
In a press statement, Allianz Partners says that India recorded the highest domestic travel intent among all surveyed markets, with 60 pc of travellers planning holidays within the country, compared to a global average of 42 pc. The findings indicate that amid rising travel costs and economic uncertainty, Indian consumers are increasingly opting for destinations closer to home and seeking value-for-money travel experiences, while continuing to prioritise annual holidays as an important part of wellbeing and leisure.
The report says that despite strong travel intent, Indian travellers are becoming more cautious about spending, with 76 pc cutting back on non-essential expenses to afford holidays, 72 pc reducing vacation plans due to higher costs, 82 pc worried about rising travel prices and 72 pc concerned about their personal financial situation when planning trips.
It adds that travel insurance adoption is gaining momentum in India, with 85 pc of travellers likely to purchase travel insurance for their summer holidays. Among insured travellers, 89 pc cite peace of mind and security as key reasons for buying insurance, while an equal proportion value medical assistance and repatriation support. Furthermore, 65 pc expect access to 24/7 customer support and emergency assistance through mobile applications, highlighting growing demand for digitally enabled protection services.
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According to the report, Indian travellers are increasingly favouring experience-led holidays, with 75 pc planning to attend concerts, festivals or performing arts events during vacations, 71 pc interested in sporting events, 73 pc planning trips around ticketed experiences, 74 pc intending to pursue sports or hobbies, 73 pc considering wellness retreats and spa vacations and 74 pc expressing interest in cruises, expeditions or riverboat-style travel. The findings indicate a shift away from traditional sightseeing towards activity-rich and experiential travel.
The statement says that Indian travellers are also among the most digitally engaged globally, with 82 pc already using or planning to use Artificial Intelligence tools for travel planning. At the same time, 78 pc feel vulnerable to cyber risks while travelling and 84 pc consider environmental risks and extreme weather conditions when choosing destinations, reflecting growing awareness around technology, safety and climate-related challenges.
The report notes that geopolitical uncertainty and safety concerns are increasingly shaping travel decisions. According to the findings, 83 pc say stricter border controls and geopolitical developments influence destination choices, 85 pc are concerned about global geopolitical issues, 83 pc worry about personal safety and security while travelling, 80 pc are concerned about delays and cancellations, 78 pc worry about health issues, 79 pc are concerned about public health risks, 75 pc fear lost or delayed luggage and 74 pc worry about losing travel documents.
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Charu Kaushal
The statement adds that flexible work arrangements continue to reshape travel patterns, with 73 pc of Indian travellers planning to extend trips to combine work and leisure, 77 pc intending to work remotely away from home for a few weeks and 70 pc considering longer-term remote working or digital nomad lifestyles, highlighting the growing overlap between work, leisure and travel.
“Indian travellers continue to demonstrate strong confidence and enthusiasm for travel. What is evolving, however, is how consumers are planning and prioritising their vacations. Today’s travellers are more value-conscious, digitally enabled and experience-driven. They are seeking meaningful travel experiences while also paying closer attention to safety, flexibility, climate risks and financial preparedness. The findings also highlight the growing importance of domestic travel and the increasing role of technology, including AI, in shaping travel planning and decision-making. At the same time, the data reinforces that travellers increasingly view protection and preparedness as an essential part of the overall travel experience,” says Charu Kaushal, Managing Director, Allianz Partners India.
Parikshit Kohli
“Indian travellers today are more informed, digitally connected and aware on managing travel related uncertainties. While the appetite to travel remains strong, we are seeing consumers put more emphasis on preparedness, flexibility and protection when planning their journeys. Travel insurance is increasingly viewed not just as a financial safety net, but an essential enabler of stress-free travel. Today’s travellers expect comprehensive and seamless protection across their travel experience, from medical emergencies and trip disruptions to real-time assistance and digital support services,” says Parikshit Kohli, Sales Director, Travel, Allianz Partners India.