Why Are Indians Taking Holidays? New Survey Reveals Some Unexpected Reasons

What usually makes you book a holiday? A birthday, anniversary, long weekend or simply the need to escape your everyday routine? For Indian travellers in 2026, the answer may be far more unpredictable.

A new survey suggests that Indians are increasingly travelling without waiting for traditional milestones or special occasions. Sometimes, all it takes is an annoying neighbour, an unexpected family visit, a personal achievement—or even a suggestion from an astrologer.

The survey, commissioned by Booking.com in partnership with YouGov, found that 58 per cent of Indian respondents had taken a trip simply because they wanted to. But beyond spontaneous travel, respondents also revealed some rather unusual reasons for booking a getaway.

In-Laws Visiting? Book A Trip

Family gatherings can apparently be a travel trigger too.

According to the survey, 28 per cent of Indian travellers said they had booked a trip because their in-laws came over for an extended stay. Another 50 per cent said they had travelled to avoid social commitments, including family weddings and dinners with distant relatives.

For some travellers, escaping a social obligation may now be as simple as booking a ticket and leaving town.

• Renovation Noise Can Send You Packing
• Home-related disruptions also featured among the reasons people chose to travel.

Around 30 per cent of respondents said they had gone on a trip when their nanny, domestic help or driver was away. Meanwhile, 46 per cent said they had packed their bags to escape drilling, renovation work or noisy neighbours.

Sometimes, apparently, a hotel room can be more appealing than dealing with construction noise next door.

Heartbreak Is Another Reason To Travel

Emotional getaways are nothing new. People have long travelled after heartbreak, during periods of grief or simply when they feel the need for a change of surroundings.

A trip can offer a temporary break from familiar routines and provide an opportunity to reset, explore somewhere new or simply spend time away from everyday pressures.

Small Wins Deserve Big Celebrations

Why wait for a major life event to celebrate?

The survey found that 61 per cent of respondents had booked a trip to celebrate small achievements, such as getting through a difficult week or reaching a fitness goal.

For this group of travellers, even a personal “microwin” can become a perfectly good reason to plan a getaway.

Sometimes, It’s Just About The Vibe

For 57 per cent of respondents, the destination itself was enough motivation to travel.

Whether it was the atmosphere, a particular place or simply the desire to experience something different, these travellers did not necessarily need a specific occasion to justify their trip.

Bad weather at home could also provide the push to leave.

Payday? Time To Travel

Even the calendar can influence holiday plans.

According to the survey, 16 per cent of respondents said they had booked a trip simply because it was payday. Meanwhile, 20 per cent said they travelled to deal with post-trip blues.

For some, getting back from one holiday may already be reason enough to start planning the next.

When Astrology Says, ‘Go’

For some Indian travellers, travel plans can also depend on the stars.

The survey found that 22 per cent of respondents said an astrologer’s advice that it was an auspicious time to travel was enough to prompt them to make a booking.

The survey, which covered more than 1,000 respondents across Indian cities, highlights how travel decisions are increasingly being shaped by spontaneous desires, everyday situations, emotions and small celebrations—not just traditional occasions.

So, what is the most unusual reason that has ever made you pack your bags?