Long Weekends Are the New Excuse to Escape: 64% of Indian Travellers Are Booking Getaways, Booking.com Reveals

A new Booking.com survey conducted with YouGov found that 64% of Indian travellers use long weekends and calendar breaks as an opportunity for spontaneous getaways. The findings indicate a shift in travel behaviour, with Indians increasingly travelling throughout the year instead of waiting for major holidays.

What Triggers Travel?
42% of Indian travellers start planning a trip as soon as they spot a long weekend on the calendar.
36% say a stressful workweek is enough reason to take a short break.
Many travellers are seeking quick escapes to recharge, relax, and avoid burnout.

The Rise of the "Planned-Spontaneous" Traveller
36% extend their long weekends by taking one or two extra days of leave.
20% wait for attractive travel deals before making bookings.
19% take short breaks without using any additional leave.
16% turn long weekends into a workcation.

Small Breaks, Big Travel Aspirations
24% prefer exploring a new destination that fits their budget.
21% favour drivable destinations located within four hours of home.
22% choose nearby hotels or resorts, making the stay itself the destination.
19% are willing to take short international trips even with just a 72-hour window.

What Long Weekends Mean to Indians
When asked what long weekends represent:
22% see them as mini vacations that feel like a full holiday.
21% view them as a quick reset from daily routines.
20% consider them valuable time to spend with family and friends.
19% believe they are the best way to maximize limited time off.

The Long Weekend Paradox
42% admit that planning a short trip can feel stressful, with pressure to optimize every hour and decision.
Despite the planning challenges, travellers consider a trip successful when it delivers:
Good value for money (25%)
Quality time with loved ones (16%)
Beautiful scenery and landscapes (12%)
Memorable experiences and stories to share afterward.

Industry Perspective
Santosh Kumar, Regional Head, South Asia, Booking.com, said long weekends have evolved into powerful motivators for travel.
He noted that while many trips are spontaneous, travellers remain thoughtful about:
Extending breaks strategically
Finding value-for-money deals
Choosing accommodations that serve as destinations themselves
According to Booking.com, Indians are increasingly embracing road trips, staycations, and short-haul flights to make every extra day count.

Key Takeaway
64% of Indians travel during long weekends.
42% begin planning as soon as a long weekend appears.
36% take extra leave to extend trips.
24% prioritize budget-friendly new destinations.
Long weekends are increasingly viewed as opportunities for rest, exploration, and meaningful experiences without waiting for a major holiday season.