The Future of Travel: How Asia’s Emerging Trends Will Shape Global Tourism by 2026

Published on November 26, 2025

As Asia continues to transform the tourism landscape, the latest findings from the Agoda 2026 Travel Outlook Report highlight significant shifts that will influence travel across the globe in 2026. From Takamatsu in Japan to Riau Province in Indonesia, smaller, secondary destinations are gaining popularity. More importantly, Asian travellers are prioritizing cost-efficiency and using innovative technologies to plan their journeys. As a result, travel trends from the region are shaping not just the future of Asian tourism, but global patterns as well.

Asia’s Value-Driven Travel Revolution: What’s Driving It?

A major takeaway from the report reveals that for 39% of Asian travellers, affordability tops the list of factors influencing their travel decisions. This priority on cost means that 73% of travellers seek accommodations priced under $100 per night, particularly in countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. In turn, this preference is fueling increased travel frequency rather than deterring it. In fact, the shift towards budget-friendly options has empowered 40% of Asian travellers to allocate 6-10% of their annual income toward travel. This allows them to explore more frequently and even consider new destinations they might have previously overlooked.

Domestic Travel: A New Era of Regional Exploration

As Asia adapts to evolving travel habits, a growing trend toward domestic tourism is emerging. The report highlights that 35% of travellers plan to focus on exploring their own countries in 2026, a significant increase from just 15% in the previous year. This surge in domestic interest is fostering the rise of secondary cities, such as Takamatsu and Matsuyama in Japan, as well as Riau province in Indonesia. These destinations are benefiting from government-backed initiatives and improved connectivity, which are making it easier to visit less-established regions.

As Asia’s domestic travel expands, so does the exploration of nearby locales. Countries are investing heavily in infrastructure to encourage regional tourism, making it more seamless for travellers to explore hidden gems within their own borders.

AI: The Future of Travel Planning in Asia

The integration of AI in travel planning is another key trend shaping the future. According to the report, nearly 63% of Asian travellers are expected to use AI for their next trip, while 44% already trust AI-generated information. AI’s role extends beyond booking flights and accommodations—it’s being harnessed to personalize experiences, recommend local attractions, and even adjust plans in real time. Whether it’s rescheduling activities due to unexpected weather or reworking itineraries after flight delays, AI is increasingly becoming a trusted tool for travellers.

Notably, Agoda predicts the rise of “Agentic AI” in the travel sector, where AI tools proactively adjust plans on behalf of the traveller, offering even more convenience and flexibility.

Exploring Local Cultures Through Food and Events

Experience-led travel is also on the rise, with a particular focus on food and cultural immersion. Culinary tourism, a growing segment, is being driven by the desire to discover new cuisines and regional specialties. Major events, such as Lady Gaga’s concert in Singapore and BLACKPINK’s performances in Bangkok, have shown that entertainment plays a significant role in influencing travel decisions. Cultural and spiritual events, including the Mahakumbh Mela in India and Holi festivals, are drawing more visitors seeking unique experiences.

These evolving preferences reflect an increasing desire to connect with local cultures in deeper, more meaningful ways, something that smaller destinations are capitalizing on by highlighting their own traditions and events.

Relaxed Visa Rules: Making Travel Easier Across Asia

Government policies across Asia are playing a crucial role in facilitating travel. Relaxed visa regulations, for example, have significantly impacted the movement of travellers in the region. The report points out that when countries like Malaysia and Thailand removed visa requirements for Indian citizens, there was an immediate surge in searches for travel to those destinations. Additionally, as airlines across the Asia-Pacific region expand their networks with new aircraft deliveries, more direct flight routes will open up, reducing travel barriers and making it easier for travellers to explore the region.

Moreover, the advent of digital wallets and QR code payments is reducing friction for travellers, allowing them to pay seamlessly across multiple countries in their home currency, further improving the travel experience.

The Rise of Shorter, More Frequent Getaways

The trend of shorter but more frequent trips is becoming the norm for many travellers across Asia. The ability to easily access secondary destinations within a region, combined with the convenience of cost-effective travel options, has encouraged many to take quick, frequent getaways instead of long vacations. This shift reflects broader global travel patterns, with travellers seeking more flexibility in how and when they travel.

Conclusion: Asia’s Influence on Global Travel Patterns in 2026

As Asia leads the way in transforming travel trends, the region is setting the stage for how global tourism will look in 2026. From the rise of AI-powered travel tools to a growing focus on budget-friendly, experience-driven trips, the future of travel is being shaped by Asia’s evolving traveller preferences. The shift toward domestic tourism, relaxed visa policies, and an increased focus on immersive experiences signals a new era in travel that will redefine global tourism in the years to come.