Travellers are encouraged to plan ahead, choose destinations that align with their travel intentions, and utilize rewards and flexible booking tools to better manage costs during the peak season.
Cleartrip’s PeekABoo – Exclusive Travel Trends Tracker reveals that hotel bookings have increased by over 80%, while 5-star accommodations have seen a remarkable 108% rise, indicating a stronger preference for premium lodging.
Family hotel bookings have risen by 124.9%, underscoring the significance of collaborative planning for group and family travel during the busy summer months.
Air travel has grown by more than 20% and bus bookings have surged by over 35%, demonstrating consistent activity across different travel modes. Additionally, solo female travel within India has increased by 31.9%, while international solo male travel has seen a rise of 35.8%, showcasing broader engagement among different traveller segments.
Destination preferences are varied, with domestic demand centered on cities like Delhi and Jaipur, while international travel is primarily led by destinations such as Bangkok and Bali. Bengaluru is also becoming a vital domestic center, particularly among younger travellers.
Data from Agoda highlights a growing interest in leisure-oriented destinations, with searches for Puri (68%), Wayanad (40%), and Goa (29%) increasing, reflecting a stronger inclination toward coastal and nature-centric summer vacations.
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Key travel planning tips
Book early for peak summer demand
It’s important for travellers to prioritize early bookings, particularly around school holidays, as this is when demand peaks, leading to higher prices and limited availability, especially for family and group travel.
Match destinations to travel intent
Holiday selections should align with travel objectives—be it city getaways, coastal relaxation, or nature-focused stays—while also considering emerging tier 2 and Northeast destinations that offer better connectivity and less congestion.
Plan group and family travel efficiently
With a significant increase in family travel, larger group bookings can optimize costs and enhance accommodation options, making organized planning essential during the peak season.
Utilize credit and reward ecosystems effectively
Travellers should take full advantage of credit card rewards and loyalty programs, as credit cards comprise 63.1% of domestic and 48.9% of international bookings.
Ecosystems such as Swiggy–Marriott Bonvoy, airline-linked credit cards, and travel platforms can help convert everyday spending into travel benefits.
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Leverage platform offers and flexibility tools
Platforms like Agoda offer bundled deals that include stays, flights, and activities, along with seasonal discounts. Flexible booking options should be prioritized to accommodate itinerary changes during busy travel periods.
Optimize daily spending for travel rewards
Everyday expenditures such as dining, groceries, and transportation should be directed through reward-linked systems whenever possible, assisting in accumulating points and gradually reducing overall travel costs.
(Edited by : Shoma Bhattacharjee)
First Published: May 19, 2026 5:28 PM IST
