Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its ranking of what Asian travellers prioritise most when searching for accommodation in 2026. Looking at the most-used search filters on its website this year, Agoda reports that Indian travellers consistently prioritise accommodation type, including breakfasts and strong review scores, when seeking holiday stays.
At 26% of all filter activity, the choice of accommodation type ranked first for Indian traveller searches in 2026, emphasising the importance of selecting the right stay over all other factors. This places India among the top markets, compared with the Asia-wide average of 19%.
‘Review scores of 7 and above’ rank among the top search criteria for Indian travellers in 2026, constituting 13% of all filter activity, reflecting a strong preference for highly rated stays.
Dining and creature comforts drive Indian travel choices
The filter for breakfast-included stays is India’s second-most searched at 14%, reflecting a preference for convenience and value at the start of the day. Dinner-included stays also feature among India’s top 10 search filters, pointing to food as a consideration across the entire day, not just breakfast.
Indian travellers also seek specific creature comforts when choosing stays. Swimming pools and bathtubs both rank among the top 10 search filters for Indian travellers in 2026, reflecting a clear preference for amenities that support relaxation and enhance the overall stay experience.
Indian travellers want flexibility before, during and after the stay
Flexibility across booking, payment, and stay options is a clear priority for Indian travellers in 2026. Free cancellation and pay-at-hotel options are featured among the top 10 search filters, highlighting the interest in refundable and on-site payment choices that reduce booking friction.
Other search options that offer flexibility, choice and convenience also feature among the top 10 searches for Indian travellers, including location score (of 9 and above) and car parking facilities. These indicate that travellers are increasingly keen on accommodation that can cater to their diverse preferences, whether this is travelling as a group, driving to their destination, or wanting to be close to public transport and other attractions.
Gaurav Malik, Country Director, Indian Subcontinent & Indian Ocean Islands at Agoda, said, “In 2026, Indian travellers are becoming more intentional in how they choose their stays. Searches show a clear focus on accommodation type, breakfast-included options and highly rated properties, alongside flexible booking features such as pay-at-hotel and free cancellation. It is not just about availability, but about finding the right fit. Agoda’s easy-to-use search filters and wide range of accommodation choices, amenities, locations and more enable travellers to find the perfect stay based on individual needs and wants.”
With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda enables travellers to plan and combine every part of their journey in one place. Running from 7 May to 21 May, Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale will offer up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with a special flash sale of up to 70% on 19 May and exclusive deals on flights and activities. Agoda VIP members will receive early access to deals from 3 May to 6 May. Discover more on Agoda’s mobile app or at Agoda.com.
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