Booking.com reveals how Indian parents are redefining family travel: 75% of Indian parents prioritise travel in 2025

INDIA, June 24, 2025: Travel in 2025 is evolving into meaningful, shared experiences for Indian parents, moving beyond mere leisure to include bonding, cultural immersion and purposeful spending. With 75% of Indian parents making travel a top priority every year, compared to 58% in the APAC region and 53% globally, Booking.com, one of the world’s leading digital travel platforms, reveals the key trends and insights that dives into the emerging trends redefining how families are travelling this year.

From weddings to reunions

In 2025, travel for Indian parents is becoming a powerful expression of values and traditions, blending discovery and bonding. Whether exploring new cultures or reconnecting with their roots, Indian parents are increasingly valuing shared journeys with their children and loved ones. At the same time, they’re also embracing solo travel, reflecting a desire to balance family experiences with personal growth. When coming to destinations, Asia has emerged as a top choice for Indian parents (62%) in 2025, followed by Europe (55%) and North America (26%).

98% of Indian parents plan to travel domestically at least once, while 90% plan to do so internationally. Three out of four Indian parents plan to travel with their immediate family and 79% are also planning solo trips.

● 92% believe it’s important to expose their children to diverse cultures and 90% emphasise the value of connecting with their own cultural heritage.

● Social occasions remain a strong travel motivator—73% of Indian parents plan to travel for weddings, 63% to reunite with loved ones and 41% to visit family or friends.

● Key motivations for travel include spending time together as a family (72%), boosting their mood (71%), relaxation (68%) and mentally unwinding (63%).

Balancing luxury and value

Indian parents are redefining their travel spending, with a majority planning to increase their budgets in 2025. They're investing not just in essentials like accommodation, dining and shopping, but also in creating unforgettable experiences. Shared travel expenses are a priority, with 92% willing to pay for their partner's trip and 86% for their children's.

● 84% plan a higher overall travel budget with 78% favouring one or two longer vacations and 76% preferring multiple shorter trips.

● 70% of Indian parents are willing to travel to off-season destinations or take longer transport routes to reduce costs

● Almost half are willing to take longer trips (47%) and spend more while traveling: activities, food (46%). 65% plan to spend more on restaurants, 68% on shopping and 58% on accommodation.

● 63% are planning more last-minute travel for deals and 58% admit they'll spend lavishly to ensure the ultimate experience.

● 88% of parents use technology to help save money when travelling (e.g. apps to find the best rates or discounts, etc.)

Planning with AI, travelling with ease

Indian families are increasingly turning to technology to make their travel experiences more seamless, personalised and meaningful. With 91% of Indian parents relying on it to discover more authentic experiences, AI is becoming one of the trusted companions in the travel journey.

● 88% are confident in using AI for planning and 87% agree it makes the process faster, more accurate and efficient.

● 57% use it for travel safety tips, followed by restaurant recommendations (52%), accommodation (48%), activities (47%) and finding deals (40%).

“Indian parents are embracing travel in 2025 with a deeper sense of purpose—blending cultural connection, family bonding and personal growth. With 75% making travel a top priority, they’re planning journeys that are more intentional and value-driven. From investing in shared experiences to balancing luxury with smart budgeting and embracing technology, they are redefining what meaningful travel looks like. At Booking.com, we are committed to supporting these evolving priorities by offering the flexibility, choice and convenience families need to plan unforgettable trips—by providing unique places to stay, great things to do and a wide range of transport options, from flights to rental cars.”

Santosh Kumar, Country Manager for India, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Indonesia at Booking.com

***