The inaugural “Travel Happiness Index”, based on a survey of over 10,000 travellers across 10 Asia-Pacific markets, found that travel continues to be a major source of happiness and wellbeing for Indians.
“As many as 96% say they would rather adapt their travel plans than cancel when disruptions occur,” reads the report.
“Among those adapting their plans, 28 per cent would opt for an alternative destination, 19% would postpone their trip, and another 19% would change the timing or duration,” reads the report.
Similarly, as per the report, an overwhelming 99% of Indian travellers associate travel with positive emotions, while 90% say having a trip to look forward to lifts their mood.
About 82% consider travel essential to their overall happiness and wellbeing, while happiness (55%), relaxation (46%) and excitement (43%) were the top emotions associated with travel.
The study also found that Indian travellers are increasingly prioritising meaningful experiences over packed itineraries.
Around 78% prefer local food and meaningful experiences, while 68% said family trips are the most enjoyable.
Despite concerns over extreme weather and health and hygiene risks (33% each), crime (29%), inflation (28%) and political instability (24%), travel remains a priority.
Around 70% state they feel more confident about their ability to afford travel than before.
“Travel is increasingly becoming more than just a break from routine, it is an investment in wellbeing, relationships and personal enrichment.
“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,” Santosh Kumar, regional head, South Asia at Booking.com, said in a statement.
The research was commissioned by Booking.com and independently conducted among 10,136 respondents aged 21 years and above across 10 Asia-Pacific countries.
The online survey was conducted in May 2026, with 1,015 respondents from India.
