Travel in 2026 begins with more thoughtful choices. Indian travellers are not just deciding where to go, but also how their trips affect the environment and local communities. Sustainability is no longer a side thought. It is becoming a key part of travel planning.
Booking.com’s 11th Travel and Sustainability Report 2026, based on 32,500 travellers across 35 markets including India, shows a clear shift. A strong 96 per cent of Indian travellers say sustainable travel is important or very important to them. This view is shared across all age groups.
More importantly, travellers are turning this intent into action. Among Millennials, 88 per cent want to travel more sustainably in the next 12 months. Gen Z follows at 82 per cent, while 77 per cent of Gen X say the same. This shows that sustainability is influencing travel decisions across generations.
These changes can be seen in everyday travel habits. Many travellers are trying to reduce waste. About 55 per cent of Gen X and 53 per cent of Millennials are avoiding single-use items and recycling when possible. Among Gen Z, 44 per cent are doing the same. These small steps are becoming a regular part of how people travel.
There is also a growing focus on supporting local communities. Nearly half of Indian travellers, including 49 per cent of Gen X, 48 per cent of Millennials, and 49 per cent of Gen Z, say they prefer shopping at local and independent stores during their trips. This helps local businesses and keeps tourism benefits within the community.
Accommodation choices are also changing. Around 48 per cent of Millennials, 46 per cent of Gen X, and 42 per cent of Gen Z plan to stay in places that have sustainability certifications. Travellers are now paying attention to how hotels operate, not just how they look.
Energy use is another area where travellers are becoming more careful. About 57 per cent of Gen X, 49 per cent of Millennials, and 46 per cent of Gen Z say they will try to reduce energy use. This includes turning off lights and air conditioning when not needed.
At the same time, travel experiences are becoming more meaningful. Many travellers want to connect with local culture. Around 40 per cent of Millennials and 39 per cent of Gen Z have taken part in activities where they learn about local traditions or interact with local communities. For Gen X, this figure is 35 per cent.
Environmental awareness is also shaping travel activities. About 37 per cent of Millennials, 33 per cent of Gen X, and 28 per cent of Gen Z have joined activities that support wildlife or protect natural ecosystems. This shows that travellers want to give something back to the places they visit.
Food choices are also changing. A majority of travellers prefer locally sourced and seasonal food. This includes 60 per cent of Gen X, 59 per cent of Millennials, and 55 per cent of Gen Z. Carrying reusable water bottles is also common, with over half of travellers across all age groups following this practice.
However, when it comes to paying extra for carbon offsetting or sustainable aviation fuel, fewer travellers are willing to spend more. Only 36 per cent of Gen X, 28 per cent of Millennials, and 25 per cent of Gen Z say they would contribute financially. Cost still plays an important role in these decisions.
Another major factor shaping travel is climate change. Extreme weather is affecting how and when people travel. About 71 per cent of Indian travellers consider extreme weather risks when choosing destinations and travel dates. The same number say they avoid places known for such conditions.
This concern is leading to real changes. Around 63 per cent of travellers say they have cancelled or changed their travel plans in the past year due to extreme weather. This is much higher than the global average of 33 per cent.
Many travellers are also rethinking their wish lists. About 59 per cent say some destinations have become too hot to visit at certain times. Around 62 per cent have removed destinations from their plans due to climate-related concerns.
As a result, flexibility is becoming more important. Travellers are looking for less crowded and more comfortable destinations. Nearly 47 per cent plan to avoid busy tourist spots. Around 40 per cent want to travel outside peak seasons, and 33 per cent are choosing cooler destinations.
There is also a growing awareness of the impact of tourism. Among those avoiding crowded places, 45 per cent say they want to reduce pressure on popular destinations. Similarly, 55 per cent of those travelling in off-season periods say they want to help reduce overcrowding.
Overall, Indian travellers in 2026 are becoming more aware and responsible. Their choices show a balance between personal comfort and concern for the environment and local communities. Travel is no longer just about visiting new places. It is about doing so in a way that is more thoughtful and sustainable.
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