In the midst of global economic headwinds, consumer across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region continue to exhibit remarkable confidence in their travel plans.

Despite 42% worrying about finances, a remarkable 73% of APAC travellers stay committed to their upcoming travel plans, according to Booking.com’s APAC Travel Confidence Index 2023. Additionally, 53% won't delay their trips despite challenges like inflation and climate change. Also, 59% of them plan to increase both trips and budgets.

Interestingly, the report highlights how travel companions significantly impact the experience and budget. Solo travellers, couples, and groups all approach travel uniquely.

Solo travellers favour public transportation and early bird deals

• When it comes to solo travel, a significant number of single travellers prioritise cost-saving strategies. Around 34% of solo adventurers prefer to capitalise on public transportation options, such as trains, buses, and trams, to explore new cities and immerse themselves in local culture, while effectively keeping their travel expenses in check.
• By planning ahead and securing flights, accommodations and activities well in advance, solo travelers take advantage of early bird discounts, promotional offers, and lower rates for flights, accommodations, and activities. Their commitment to securing arrangements well in advance allows them to maximise savings while embarking on unforgettable adventures. In fact, 58% of solo travelers are driven by the desire to partake in outdoor activities that deviate from conventional tourist routes. Plus, 2 in 5 solo travellers (42%) have already booked a domestic trip for this year.

Couple travellers embrace off-peak travel

• Couples have perfected the art of making their travel funds go further by favouring off-peak travel periods. A notable 41% of couples opt for these less-crowded times, allowing them to reap significant savings on accommodations and transportation while indulging in unique experiences. Beyond the financial savings, the allure of escaping the crowds and immersing themselves in activities away from the hustle and bustle enhances the romantic appeal of their getaways.
• For couples, strategic planning includes leveraging online booking websites, as 46% compare prices across various websites before finalising their bookings, such as reading reviews (43%) and examining property photos (40%) to curate their journeys.

Group travellers prefer budget-friendly travel destinations

• Guided by a collective quest for value, group travellers is a segment that most often veers off the conventional path, seeking destinations that marry affordability with adventure. Among their travel strategies, prioritising less expensive destinations (35%) and selecting budget-friendly accommodations (45%) top the list for crafting wallet-friendly journeys.
• Unique considerations come into play for this segment, with tedious administrative processes (27%) and quarantine measures (20%) emerging as their primary concerns. Similar to couples, when embarking on group adventures, group travellers also assess property photos (41%) and compare prices across different platforms (45%) before committing to accommodations. This segment also incorporates meta-search websites (27%) as a tool during their decision-making process.