Why Indian Prefer more Adventurous and Luxurious Trip with High Pay Out: Unveiled American Express Global Trends Report

Thursday, March 21, 2024

In 2024, 62% of Indian travelers plan to spend more on travel, embracing hacks for value and richer experiences, shows American Express Report.

A significant number of Indian travelers, reaching 62% compared to the worldwide average of 40%, are prepared to increase their travel expenditure in 2024, showing a strong desire to enrich their travel experiences. This surge in spending does not deter them from seeking ways to enhance the value of their trips, as they adeptly utilize various travel hacks to make their adventures more economical and satisfying. These insights were unveiled in the 2024 Global Travel Trends Report by American Express Travel®, drawing on survey responses from countries including India, the United States, Australia, Canada, Mexico, Japan, and the United Kingdom.

The data highlights a burgeoning enthusiasm for travel among Indians, with 65% indicating plans for more domestic excursions and 48% aiming for additional international journeys this year. The survey also shines a light on the savvy use of travel strategies, noting that about 43% of Indian travelers (compared to the global figure of 30%) intend to use credit card rewards to lessen the costs of flights and accommodations. Moreover, 42% are leaning towards booking with services that offer free perks like room upgrades and credits, outpacing the global average of 26%. Additionally, 35% are considering splitting their stays between luxury and budget-friendly accommodations, while 31% are looking to travel during less busy periods or opt to stay with friends or family to save on expenses.

“Indian travelers are embracing the spirit of adventure and exploration in 2024, driven by a desire for new experiences and cultural immersion. From using travel hacks to embarking on solo journeys, Indians are redefining the travel landscape with their changing preferences and behaviours. At American Express, we understand the evolving needs of consumers and strive to empower our Card Members with rewarding offers and benefits, enhancing their travel experiences wherever they venture,” said Sanjay Khanna, CEO and Country Manager, American Express Banking Corp., India.

Culinary delights and comfortable stays stand out as pivotal elements of travel experiences for Indians, setting the tone for their holiday preferences. Here’s a look at what captures their interest:

• A majority, with 71%, place gastronomic experiences at the heart of their travel desires, significantly higher than the global average of 52%, while 67% emphasize the importance of quality lodging.
• The allure of sandy shores appeals to 67% who dream of beachside holidays in 2024.
• The thrill of adventure beckons 58%, eager for activities like camping, surfing, skiing, and scaling mountains.
• Urban exploration is on the agenda for 55%, keen to traverse and uncover the vibrancy of new cities.

Venturing out alone: The charm of navigating through unfamiliar urban landscapes, basking in serene coastal retreats, and exploring the nooks of one’s own country on a solitary journey strikes a chord with many Indian adults.

• A notable 34% of Indians are setting sights on embarking on more solo travels this year, a figure that doubles the worldwide average of 18%.
• A significant 84% of those contemplating solo voyages in 2024 aim to focus these journeys on self-care and personal indulgence.
• The primary motivations for opting for solo travel include seeking personal reconnection (46%), taking a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life (39%), and embracing independence (34%).

The allure of the unplanned: The structured rhythm of contemporary life has led Indians to seek out more adaptable travel plans, making room for spontaneous journeys.

• A striking 58% of Indians show interest in embracing last-minute getaways in 2024, with 40% typically arranging their travels a week or less ahead of time.
• Venturing into cities beyond their primary destination (46%), indulging in local cuisines (45%), and enjoying the local nightlife and adventurous outings (43% each) are the spontaneous activities favored by Indian travelers.
• The desire for unbounded exploration (50%), the ease of hopping between various places (49%), and the chance to dive into different cultures (48%) stand out as the leading drives for spontaneous excursions.

Fueled by a passion for sports: Travel for sports aficionados extends beyond mere sightseeing to immersing themselves in heart-racing sports events.

• A notable 29% of Indians, outdoing the global norm of 14%, are eager to attend more sports events abroad in 2024.
• Leading their sports event wishlist are football/soccer (47%), Formula 1 racing (30%), and the eagerly anticipated 2024 Paris Olympics (24%).
• For those aiming to combine travel with sports, Paris (43%), London (42%), and New York City (37%) emerge as the preferred cities to visit during this summer’s sporting calendar.

The survey was carried out from January 31 to February 8, 2024, targeting a demographic of 2005 adults from the US, 1007 from Australia, 1002 each from Canada and the UK, 1002 from Japan, 1006 from Mexico, and 1005 from India. Participants were required to have an annual income of at least $50,000 or its equivalent and to travel at least once per year. The data collection process was conducted via online interviews. The overall findings of the survey are subject to a margin of error ranging between 2-4 percentage points. Depending on the availability of local census data, adjustments may be made to the weighting of certain geographic results with less variability.

« Back to Page

• Exploring the Depths: The Rising Tide of Diving Tourism

• Explore Taiwan’s Rich Culture and Stunning Landscapes with New Family Tour Packages

• Unveiling Madhya Pradesh: A Kaleidoscope of Nature’s Bounty Awaits Your Trip

• New Passport Program Invites Global Travelers to Explore Kentucky Tourism’s Curiosities and Capitals

• Explore America by rail for perfect travel experience to wilderness