#Trip.com Group #travel trends #Lunar New Year

Doubling Down on Travel: Trip.com Group's 2026 Lunar New Year Forecast

As we gallop into the Year of the Horse, Trip.com Group has released impressive forecasts for Lunar New Year travel in 2026. Initial statistics indicate that the travel industry is on an upward trajectory, with bookings across its platforms demonstrating double-digit growth compared to the previous year. Notably, travelers are not just taking longer trips but also venturing to new destinations, marking a significant shift in travel behavior.

Longer Journeys and Increased Demand for Premium Travel

The trend towards longer holidays is shaping travel plans this festive season, as many travelers opt for extended breaks. For instance, data reveals that cross-border bookings for stays of seven nights or more have surged nearly 40% year-on-year, while long-haul bookings have found even greater momentum, increasing by over 50%. This shift reflects a growing preference for deeper and more enriching travel experiences during the Lunar New Year period.

Public holiday schedules across various Asia-Pacific nations have allowed travelers to maximize their vacation time. In China, where the Lunar New Year holiday extends over nine days, travelers can take up to 15 days off by combining public holidays with annual leave. Similar patterns are evident in countries like Vietnam, South Korea, and Malaysia, where extended holiday breaks are creating opportunities for longer vacations.

Emergence of Long-Haul Destinations

With Asian travelers increasingly looking to explore farther abroad, Europe and Oceania have become appealing options for Lunar New Year getaways. Travel to Norway has shown remarkable growth, with Singaporean bookings soaring more than 200% year-on-year, propelled by unique attractions such as the Northern Lights and scenic fjords. Other popular long-haul destinations include the Maldives, Turkey, Spain, and Mongolia, each witnessing significant year-on-year increases in travel interest.

Australia leads the charge for Chinese travelers, benefiting from a considerable jump of over 100% in interest year-on-year, with highlights such as the breathtaking Great Barrier Reef and the iconic Sydney Opera House capturing traveler attention. Meanwhile, New Zealand has also grown in popularity, enjoying a nearly 50% increase in bookings during this festive period.

Shift Towards Package Tours and Premium Experiences

As travelers seek to enhance their vacation experiences, interest in all-inclusive package tours is on the rise. Noteworthy options include an eight-day adventure through Turkey covering highlights like Istanbul and Cappadocia, alongside a five-day multi-city tour spanning Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon in the U.S. In Japan, tour packages exploring Osaka and Kyoto, featuring cultural landmarks and serene landscapes are particularly attractive.

In tandem with these travel trends, there is a notable shift toward premium options, as travelers prioritize comfort and quality in their journeys. Year-on-year statistics indicate an 83% increase in first-class flights and a 38% rise in business-class travel bookings. The demand for upscale accommodations is also on the rise, with five-star hotel bookings increasing by a remarkable 59%. In Southeast Asian markets, five-star stays account for a significant portion of bookings, often making up more than half of all accommodation reserved.

Urban Hubs Dominate Travel Choices

During the Lunar New Year, East and Southeast Asia are projected to account for the largest share of overall bookings. In terms of rapid growth, Vietnam, South Korea, and Indonesia are leading the pack, with urban destinations like Seoul, Ho Chi Minh City, and Bali seeing year-on-year booking growth exceeding 70%. Seoul attracts visitors with its winter attractions, retail shopping experiences, and revered cultural sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, while Ho Chi Minh City is recognized for its vibrant market culture.

As a tropical paradise, Bali attracts travelers seeking beach escapes, resort experiences, and wellness retreats, solidifying its status as a desirable destination during the Lunar New Year period.

The Steady Rise of Inbound Travel to China

China continues to be a favored destination for Lunar New Year travelers. With inbound bookings experiencing robust growth from European and Oceania markets, significant increases have been noted particularly from the U.K. and New Zealand, which saw jumps of over 150%. Major gateway cities such as Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou are drawing the largest shares of international visitors eager to experience the festivities.

To facilitate smoother travel experiences during this peak period, Trip.com plans to roll out an