New Delhi, India – October 10, 2025 – Indian travelers are at the vanguard of a global shift towards artificial intelligence in trip planning, with a staggering 86% expressing confidence in using AI tools to craft their upcoming adventures. This finding, revealed in Skyscanner’s comprehensive “Travel Trends 2026 Report,” positions India as the leading nation in AI adoption for travel, marking 2026 as “the year travel gets more personal.” The report, presented by Neel Ghose, Skyscanner’s expert on travel trends and destinations, forecasts a future where journeys are deeply intertwined with individual identities, passions, and a desire for authentic experiences.
India’s Digital-First Travel Revolution
The report underscores that Indian travelers are not merely researching destinations or comparing prices with AI; they are increasingly leveraging these sophisticated tools for inspiration. This digital-first approach is transforming how trips are conceived and booked. Globally, AI usage in travel planning has seen a significant uptick, with projections indicating continued growth. While AI offers benefits like time savings, personalized recommendations, and enhanced decision-making confidence for travelers worldwide, concerns regarding accuracy and information overload persist. Nevertheless, the trend is clear: AI is rapidly becoming an indispensable assistant in the modern traveler’s toolkit.
The Rise of Personal and Passion-Driven Travel
Beyond the technological leap, the essence of travel in 2026 is set to become profoundly personal. The report highlights a significant movement away from traditional sightseeing towards experiences that resonate with individual interests and values. “This is not just about where people are travelling but why they are travelling,” stated Ghose. “Travellers are bringing their full personalities into their journeys, seeking authentic experiences that reflect their identities.” This sentiment is reflected in the increasing willingness of Indian travelers to explore destinations that offer deeper cultural connections and local flavor.
Key trends shaping this evolution include:
* “Altitude Shift” (Mountain Escapes): A remarkable 92% of Indian travelers are considering or planning mountain getaways, seeking serenity and natural beauty.
* “Shelf Discovery” (Culinary Exploration): Travelers are venturing beyond fine dining, with over 75% frequently visiting local supermarkets abroad to discover authentic, everyday food experiences.
* “Book-Bound Getaways” (Literary Inspiration): A substantial 84% of Indian travelers would consider planning a trip inspired by literature, signaling a growing cultural curiosity.
* “Catching Flights & Feelings” (Meeting New People): A growing openness to connecting with others on the road is evident, with 44% of travelers more willing to meet new people and 26% feeling more liberated to be themselves while traveling.
* “Destination Check-In” (Accommodation as the Star): The choice of accommodation has become a primary driver for destination selection, with 82% of Indian travelers admitting to choosing a place to stay before deciding where to go.
* “Family Miles” (Multi-Generational Travel): Family bonds are taking center stage, with significant numbers embarking on trips with parents and across three generations.
* “Glowmads” (Beauty & Wellness): Travel plans are increasingly incorporating beauty and wellness rituals, with 45% of Indian travelers seeking beauty treatments abroad.
Increased Travel Intent and Evolving Spending Habits
Data suggests a robust outlook for travel in 2026, with three in five Indian travelers planning to journey more than in previous years. This heightened intent is backed by a willingness to allocate higher budgets for flights and accommodations, indicating a shift towards valuing experiences over mere cost savings. India is transitioning from a price-conscious to a value-conscious market, prioritizing enriching journeys without compromising on smart spending. Globally, similar trends of increased demand and spending are observed, with travelers looking to make room for richer, more rewarding experiences.
Trending Destinations Reflecting New Passions
The report also identifies trending and best-value destinations for 2026. Notably, lesser-known gems are gaining traction, driven by a desire for authentic experiences and cultural immersion. Jorhat in Assam, India, has seen an impressive 493% surge in searches, followed by Jaffna in Sri Lanka with a 325% increase. These locations, rich in heritage and local flavor, exemplify the trend towards exploring unique, offbeat locales. Best-value destinations include Tirupati, Langkawi, and Berlin, offering travelers smart ways to enjoy their trips.
The Skyscanner Travel Trends 2026 report, informed by extensive data and consumer insights, paints a picture of a dynamic travel landscape where personalization, technology, and authentic experiences are paramount. As travelers increasingly seek to explore and enjoy journeys that reflect their true selves, 2026 is poised to be a landmark year for deeply meaningful travel.
