Indian travellers continue to view travel as a source of happiness, wellbeing, and connection despite financial and global uncertainties, according to Booking.com’s inaugural Travel Happiness Index. The research finds that travellers are adapting plans rather than cancelling, while prioritising meaningful experiences, value, flexibility, and confidence when planning trips.
The research, based on 1,015 Indian respondents aged 21 and above as part of a wider survey of 10,136 travellers across 10 Asia Pacific markets, was conducted online in May 2026.
According to the index, 99% of Indian travellers associate travel with positive emotions, while 90% say having a trip to look forward to lifts their mood. Meanwhile, 82% view travel as essential to their overall happiness and personal wellbeing, and 77% say anticipation of a trip helps them cope with daily demands.
Travel primarily evokes feelings of happiness for 55% of respondents, followed by relaxation at 46% and excitement at 43%. The planning stage also contributes to this sense of control, with 82% saying planning makes them feel more in control of their journey, while 80% prefer to organise itineraries in advance.
The main motivations for travel include spending quality time with family and loved ones at 41%, escaping daily routines to reset at 37%, and seeking food and dining experiences at 32%.
Meaningful experiences drive satisfaction
Indian travellers are increasingly placing value on simple and meaningful moments. Spending quality time with travel companions contributes to satisfaction for 28%, while appreciating natural scenery accounts for 26%, and enjoying good food or drinks for 16%.
Family remains particularly important, with 68% saying family trips are the most enjoyable.
The research also finds that 78% prioritise trying local food and incorporating meaningful experiences. Meanwhile, 69% choose travel dates or destinations based on deals, while 71% extend trips to allow more time to rest, recharge, and enjoy their destination.
Value is also influencing accommodation choices. Some 41% choose vacation homes, apartments, and unique stays for better value for money, while 34% say these options help them experience destinations in a more authentic, local way.
Travellers adapt amid uncertainty
Concerns around extreme weather and health and hygiene risks, both at 33%, are among the leading factors affecting travel decisions. Crime levels at 29%, inflation at 28%, and political instability at 24% also feature among travellers’ concerns.
However, these factors are not necessarily stopping travel. Some 70% of Indian respondents say they feel more confident in their ability to afford travel than before.
When disruptions occur, 96% say they would adapt their plans rather than cancel. Among them, 28% would opt for an alternative destination offering a similar experience, while 19% would postpone their trip, and another 19% would adjust the timing or duration of travel.
Technology supports travel planning
Digital tools are also playing a growing role, with 84% saying they make planning and booking easier. Search engines, booking platforms, and AI-powered tools help 77% find and compare options, while 75% say such tools inspire them to discover new destinations and experiences.
Trust remains important during booking, with 87% saying they feel more at ease when booking through a trusted platform.
Santosh Kumar, Regional Head, South Asia, Booking.com, said: “Travel is increasingly becoming more than just a break from routine, it is an investment in wellbeing, relationships, and personal enrichment. Our inaugural Travel Happiness Index shows that Indian travellers are planning their trips more thoughtfully, seeking authentic local experiences, and finding ways to make their trip feel more worthwhile. What’s particularly encouraging is their resilience, rather than putting their plans on hold during uncertainty, most are choosing to adapt and make the most of their trips. As part of our mission to make it easier for everyone to experience the world, we’re focused on helping travellers book and plan with confidence, so they can focus less on friction and more on the experiences that make travel truly worthwhile.”
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.