Escalating airfares, hotel rates, and currency fluctuations are reshaping outbound travel behaviour, with Indian travellers prioritising smarter planning over cutting back on international holidays. According to the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India (OTOAI), demand remains resilient as travellers increasingly book well in advance and explore value-driven travel periods. Himanshu Patil, President, OTOAI and Director, Kesari Tours, said, “Travellers are planning smarter rather than travelling less. They are booking much earlier, opting for shoulder-season departures, and choosing destinations that offer better value without compromising the overall holiday experience. Rather than cancelling trips, they are adapting their travel plans to maximise value amid rising costs.”
Janice Alyosius is a travel and MICE journalist focusing on business travel, destination marketing, aviation and industry policy. She leads editorial content at MICEtalk and also writes for TravTalk, covering global trends, trade developments and key industry conversations. With regular reporting from tourism forums, conventions and on-ground industry events, her work blends news-led analysis with strong industry voices, offering clear context and relevance for travel trade professionals and decision-makers.