SINGAPORE, 16 December 2025: Digital travel platform Agoda has published its 2026 Travel Outlook Report, spotlighting five key trends and insights that will define the next year of travel in Asia.
Agoda’s findings indicate a growing preference for local adventures, as more travellers seek to explore hidden gems and secondary destinations.
Additionally, food is taking centre stage as a reason to travel, with more Asian travellers seeking destinations that offer unforgettable food culture.
The findings, derived from a survey of Asian travellers as part of Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, also reveal that travellers are keen on maximising value, ensuring every travel dollar is well spent. Some travel habits are shifting toward shorter, more frequent trips with family, alongside emerging trends such as microtravel. Against this backdrop, AI has also emerged as a new digital travel companion to help with inspiration and planning.
Agoda’s top five trends defining travel in Asia in 2026:
Domestic travel takes centre stage
If 2026 has a travel anthem, it’s “There’s No Place Like Home.” Across Asia, the appeal of domestic travel is growing, with survey results revealing that over a third of Asians (35%) plan to travel more domestically than internationally—a rise from just 15% last year. Travellers are not just revisiting familiar spots but are also venturing into lesser-known locales, uncovering hidden gems that offer unique experiences. The shift towards domestic travel is especially pronounced in Japan and Thailand, where 67% and 66% of respondents, respectively, plan to travel more domestically in 2026.
Travellers are following their taste buds around the world
Food is taking centre stage as a reason to travel, with more Asian travellers seeking out new flavours. Survey results revealed that culinary experiences have risen to the top three motivators for Asian travellers, up from sixth place last year. Asia’s most significant share of foodies comes from Taiwan, Vietnam, and South Korea, where 47%, 35%, and 34%, respectively, cite food as a key reason for travel.
Nothing beats a great deal for the budget-savvy traveller
In 2026, Asian travellers are making it clear that a smart deal is the key to unlocking more adventures. Survey results revealed that 2 in 5 travellers plan to spend between 6% and 10% of their income on travel, with price the top priority when choosing accommodations for 39% of travellers, ahead of location (30%) and reviews (18%). The hunt for bargains is extreme in Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia, where most travellers look for stays under USD50 per night.
Frequent family trips shape 2026 travel plans
Travel habits are shifting as some Asian travellers embrace shorter, more frequent getaways, often with family. Survey data show that 35% plan to take four to six trips in 2026, allowing for meaningful time together without extended breaks from work or school. Microtravel is also on the rise, with nearly a third (32%) of respondents planning 1-3-day trips. Indonesians stand out for their travel ambitions, planning the most trips and travelling the longest distances in the region. 32% say they will take 11 or more trips in 2026, and 14% expect to travel for 13 days or longer, outpacing their regional peers.
AI steps up as the new travel essential
Artificial intelligence (AI) is quickly becoming a trusted travel sidekick for Asian travellers, with nearly two-thirds (63%) of respondents saying they are likely to use AI to plan their next trip. Asian travellers plan to use AI at every stage of their journey, with the top three desired uses being: recommending local attractions, providing translations, and creating tailored travel plans. Agoda is one step ahead, leveraging AI to personalise search results based on preferences and past user behaviour.
(Source: Agoda)
