Far from Home: Indian Festival Season Travel Trends 2024
A recent survey conducted by InsightCrunch, featuring over 4,500 in-person interviews across 16 Indian states, has shed light on consumer travel patterns observed during the festive season. The findings reveal fascinating insights into how people spent their holidays, their preferred modes of transport, and the destinations they chose to visit. As travel remains integral to India’s festive culture, this survey offers a closer look at emerging patterns.
The first major insight from the survey is that 41.4% of Indians travelled during the festive season. Holiday travel continues to be a strong cultural tradition in India, and this data underscores its enduring importance.
After a busy work year, many people opted for a well-earned vacation or trip to reconnect with loved ones, highlighting the value families place on time together and relaxation, despite economic challenges.
Domestic Destinations
Dominated Travel Plans
Regarding destination choices, 59.6% of respondents preferred local travel within their state. This focus on regional travel highlights two things – local immigration to the job centres in the state and the growing appeal of exploring nearby attractions and engaging with local culture. Convenience, affordability, and proximity likely drove this trend.
Additionally, 30% of respondents visited neighbouring states, mostly their hometowns, while 8.4% ventured to other parts of India. From a tourism standpoint, while Indians remain interested in exploring various parts of the country, shorter trips seem more popular, potentially due to budget and logistics. International travel remained low, with only 2% of respondents travelling abroad.
How Indians Travelled
The survey revealed interesting trends in transportation preferences. Personal vehicles were the most popular mode of transportation, with 39% of respondents using them for travel. Trains followed closely, favoured by 38% of respondents. The strong preference for personal vehicles aligns with the freedom they offer, allowing families to travel at their own pace and visit multiple destinations.
Generational Preferences for Personal Vehicles
A deeper analysis shows that 43% of Gen X (ages 40-54) respondents preferred personal vehicles. This preference is likely due to their ability to afford, and control over travel schedules, and convenience during crowded holiday periods. Gen X’s inclination towards comfort and independence when travelling differs from younger generations, who preferred more economical options like trains or buses.
Bus Travel: A Budget-Friendly Choice
Train travel, chosen by 38% of respondents, was popular for its affordability and comfort, particularly on longer routes. However, bus travel, preferred by 19% of respondents, gained traction, especially among lower-income groups, where 27% opted for buses due to cost savings. This shift underscores a growing demand for economical options, with buses offering a practical solution for budget-conscious travellers.
Flights and Alternative Travel: A Niche Segment
While 8% of respondents preferred air travel, flights remained a niche option. Typically reserved for international or distant domestic trips, air travel was less accessible for most. Meanwhile, 6% of respondents opted for other transport methods, including private cabs and ride-sharing services, mainly in the metro areas.
Conclusion: Changing Patterns and Opportunities
The survey findings from InsightCrunch provide a comprehensive view of India’s evolving travel preferences during festive seasons. While traditional options like trains and buses remain popular, the rise of personal vehicle use, especially among Gen X, indicates a move toward more personalized travel. The preference for regional travel within states highlights the growing appeal of local tourism, which may benefit state tourism boards and local businesses. For businesses in travel, transportation, and hospitality, understanding these travel habits is essential. Shifting travel trends create avenues for innovation and targeted marketing. By tailoring solutions to meet the needs of different consumer segments whether for comfort or budget companies can better connect with India’s festive travellers.
For deeper insights and tailored strategies, reach out to InsightCrunch to stay ahead in this dynamic market.
