'Main Character' Energy Takes Over 2026 Travel Planning: Booking.com Research Reveals Joyful, Optimistic and More Inclusive Travel Mindsets

In 2026, travel planning is no longer a task, it’s part of the joy of taking a vacation. It’s no longer just a means to an end; it’s the opening act of the vacation itself. With Indians planning their summer break, Booking.com’s Travel Trends 2026 data reveals a growing number of Indian travellers are channeling “Main Character Planning Energy”, where planning and booking is just as enjoyable as the trip itself.

Key Mindsets
- Planning as joy: 75% prefer planning trips themselves — planning is now part of the vacation experience.
- Optimism: 81% feel positive about upcoming trips.
- Discovery: 80% want to explore new destinations this year.
- Inclusivity: Kids and pets are increasingly shaping travel decisions.

Booking Personas
Enthusiastic Booker: 63% - Loves planning, takes charge
Shared Booker: 14% - Leads but wants more help
Supportive Contributor: 10% - Helps with specific tasks
Reluctant Booker: 9% - Plans only when necessary
Go-With-the-Flow Follower: 4% - Prefers others to lead

Travel Companions
- Family trips: 56%
- Friends group: 47%
- One friend: 43%
- Couples: 34%
- Colleagues: 32%
- Extended family: 30%
- Solo travel: 24%

Kids & Pets Influence
- Children: In 2025, 57% of family travellers said kids dictated itineraries — trend continues in 2026.
- Pets: 10% plan to travel with pets (up from 6% in 2025). Pet-friendly hotels, restaurants, and destinations are becoming mainstream.

Takeaway
Indian travellers in 2026 are embracing a “Main Character” energy: planning is fun, optimism is high, and inclusivity (family, kids, pets) is reshaping how trips are designed.