What is Driving Trip Decisions of Indian Travelers

For 50% of Indian travelers, travel influencers are a key source of inspiration for deciding their next destination, a report by travel technology company Amadeus has revealed. This figure is nearly double that of the U.S., and significantly higher than other countries such as the UK, Germany, and France, Amadeus said.

The report noted that the channels driving travel have shifted, with social media ads and travel influencers rising the most in influence over the last five years. Meanwhile, legacy promotion channels such as newspapers, in-person travel agents, and TV ads have been witnessing a fluctuation in importance.

Earlier this year, online travel company Agoda had also said that Instagram has become the biggest source of travel inspiration for Indian Gen Z travelers. Beyond social media, digital platforms such as Google searches, travel blogs or vlogs, and travel apps are the go-to for the travelers in this generation. These sources are replacing recommendations from friends and family, Agoda had noted.

In its report, Amadeus also found these trends:

Hotel guests in India are willing to pay extra for more features. Amadeus noted that on average, Indian travelers are willing to pay 16% above the standard average daily rate to get the view they want. “The research shows these features could add around 12% to the average daily rate (ADR) charged by the hotel,” it said.

Additionally, Indian travelers are also prioritizing personalized experiences, with a growing demand for tailor-made travel packages and bespoke services. Many are opting for experiences that offer unique cultural encounters, adventure activities, or wellness retreats. This shift reflects an evolving travel mindset that values authenticity and personalization, particularly among the younger generation.