Gen Z Fuels 2026 Travel Boom: Bookings Surge!

Travel bookings for the January 26 long weekend are experiencing a substantial surge compared to the previous year. This trend is predominantly fueled by Gen Z and millennials who increasingly favor short, experience-focused getaways. Popular domestic destinations include Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Goa, while international short-haul trips to places like Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Dubai are also seeing high demand.

The travel industry has witnessed a significant evolution, with long-weekend travel now constituting a core revenue stream, accounting for approximately 25-30% of tourism spends, a sharp increase from earlier years. This segment's growth has been accelerated by post-pandemic travel resumption and strategic airline sales, leading to increased bookings across hotels and flights. Companies are observing a 30% year-on-year rise in long-weekend bookings.

This shift highlights a growing preference for spontaneous and flexible travel. Destinations offering nature-based or wellness experiences are particularly popular, alongside city getaways and luxury resorts. The phenomenon is not limited to domestic travel, with short international trips gaining traction, indicating that extended weekends are now a key opportunity for both domestic and international tourism.