Gen Z redefining travel in India:Survey says 87% prefer short trips, weekend breaks over long holidays

India’s travel landscape is changing rapidly, driven by Gen Z’s preference for shorter, more personalised and experience-led journeys. A new Airbnb report reveals that young travellers are moving away from traditional long holidays and embracing flexible, frequent getaways that prioritise companionship, unique stays and meaningful experiences over rigid itineraries. Short trips replace traditional annual holiday Weekend breaks and short vacations are increasingly dominating travel plans among young Indians. The report found that seven out of 10 Gen Z travellers would rather take three short holidays throughout the year than spend their annual leave on a single extended trip. The trend reflects a growing preference for flexibility and frequent escapes over conventional long-haul vacations. Travel companions matter more than destinations For Gen Z, the company often matters more than the destination itself. Three out of four respondents said the people they travel with are more important than where they go. This preference is also influencing accommodation choices, with more than half opting for a shared home instead of booking separate hotel rooms when travelling in groups. The findings suggest that travel is increasingly viewed as a social experience centred on spending quality time together rather than simply visiting tourist attractions. Travel as a form of self-expression The report highlights how travel has become closely linked to identity among younger travellers.
Amanpreet Bajaj, Country Head for India and Southeast Asia at Airbnb, tells news agency ANI that Gen Zs view travel as both exploration and self-expression, with decisions about destinations, travel companions and accommodation reflecting individual identity. Spontaneous travel is on rise Flexibility is another defining characteristic of Gen Z travel behaviour. This shift indicates a move away from structured itineraries and towards more flexible, personalised travel experiences. Accommodation becoming main attraction For many Gen Z travellers, accommodation is no longer just a place to sleep. According to the report, 63% chose a destination because of a stay they discovered rather than because of the location itself. The quality of accommodation also plays a major role in trip planning, with 82% describing it as highly important. The report further noted that 78% spend at least half of their holiday time at their accommodation, highlighting the growing appeal of experiential stays. Small moments matter more than tourist attractions Traditional sightseeing is no longer the primary focus for many young travellers. Around 80% of respondents said they value everyday moments and shared experiences more than visiting famous landmarks or tourist attractions. Group travellers, in particular, cited uninterrupted time together away from daily responsibilities as their top priority. This trend is reflected in booking patterns, with Airbnb reporting approximately 55% year-on-year growth in group trips booked by Indian Gen Z users. Search for hidden gems over viral destinations Gen Z travellers are increasingly looking beyond social media trends when planning trips. Many prefer nature-based experiences, slow travel and local food exploration over highly curated itineraries or overcrowded tourist hotspots. What the findings mean The Airbnb report underscores a broader shift in travel preferences among young Indians. Instead of focusing on long holidays, packed schedules and famous attractions, Gen Z is prioritising flexibility, shared experiences, distinctive stays and authentic discoveries. As this generation becomes a larger force in the travel market, tourism operators and hospitality providers are likely to adapt their offerings to meet these evolving expectations.