India’s Post-Pandemic Travel Trends: Insights from ACKO and YouGov

Team L&M

After slow years, the travel industry in India is bouncing back. According to recent research by ACKO, India’s tech-first insurance company, in partnership with YouGov, 31% of Indians plan to take international trips in 2023. The report surveyed 1,000 respondents aged 24–45 across seven major Indian cities, revealing key travel trends and post-pandemic behavior.

Rising Travel Budgets and Extended Trips

The study shows a surge in travel demand, with 48% of Indians planning to allocate more budget for trips and 37% intending to extend trip durations. International travelers are willing to spend Rs 1–6 lakh, while domestic travelers prefer up to Rs 1 lakh.

Cleanliness, flexibility, and convenience have emerged as top priorities for travelers. Avoiding crowded places and maintaining comfort throughout the journey are critical considerations when planning trips.

Travel Insurance Awareness on the Rise

The report highlights growing awareness about travel insurance. About 67% of respondents consider travel insurance mandatory, with 62% understanding it covers medical emergencies and accidents. Nearly half prefer comprehensive policies, while 39% favor customizable options. Most travelers research policies online (45%) or consult travel agents (43%).

Popular Destinations and Travel Preferences

For international trips, Dubai leads as the most preferred destination, followed by the Maldives, Singapore, Switzerland, and Bali. Domestically, Goa tops the list, with Himachal Pradesh, Kerala, Uttarakhand, and Rajasthan following. Adventure travel appeals to one-third of respondents, while scenic views, shopping, local cuisine, and theme parks remain strong motivators.

Travel companions vary, with 36% preferring friends, 35% spouses or partners, 14% solo trips, and 4% traveling with pets.

Key Travel Considerations

• Transportation: 50% value convenience the most, followed by ticket prices, flexible booking, and cleanliness.
• Accommodation: Cleanliness and accessibility rank highest, followed by safety and convenience.
• Local Activities: Convenience tops the list, closely followed by cleanliness and overall experience.

Conclusion

India’s travelers are evolving post-pandemic, prioritizing comfort, hygiene, and well-being. With higher budgets, longer trips, and increased awareness about travel insurance, the Indian travel landscape is set for an exciting revival.