India’s travel industry is witnessing a major behavioural shift as Gen Z travellers increasingly opt for shorter, more frequent and personalised trips, creating new opportunities for tourism and hospitality businesses, according to a new report released by Airbnb. The report, *Never the Same: The New Rules of Gen Z Travel in India*, found that seven in 10 Gen Z travellers prefer three short trips over one long annual holiday, while 87 per cent favour vacations lasting less than a week. Airbnb’s internal data showed searches by Indian Gen Z travellers for the summer period rose over 30 per cent year-on-year, with domestic getaways of two to six nights emerging as the fastest-growing travel format, recording nearly 80 per cent growth.
The study revealed that 95 per cent of respondents want trips that feel personal and unique, while 87 per cent believe the way they travel reflects their identity. Accommodation is becoming a key driver of travel decisions, with 63 per cent choosing destinations because of a stay they discovered. Group travel is also gaining momentum, with domestic group bookings by Indian Gen Z travellers on Airbnb increasing nearly 55 per cent year-on-year. Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head for India and Southeast Asia, said travel has become a form of self-expression for Gen Z, influencing where they go, who they travel with and where they stay.
In Guwahati, the findings indicate growing demand for homestays, boutique properties and experiential tourism across Assam and the Northeast. Industry stakeholders expect young travellers seeking nature-based escapes, local culture, flexible itineraries and shared accommodations to boost business prospects for regional hospitality operators in the coming years.
