Pet ownership is increasingly influencing travel decisions among Indian travellers, with demand rising for pet-friendly accommodation and flexible itineraries. Booking.com data highlights how pets are shaping destination choices, travel modes, and experiences, signalling a shift towards more personalised and inclusive travel planning.
Booking.com has revealed that nearly 15 million global searches for pet-friendly accommodation were recorded in 2025, making it one of the top filters on the platform. The data indicates that pets will continue to play a central role in shaping travel behaviour in 2026, particularly among Indian travellers.
The findings show a growing preference for flexible and pet-inclusive travel, with 93% of Indian travellers favouring spontaneous road trips. This trend is supported by a lower inclination to fly with pets, with only 56% opting for air travel. The shift points towards increased demand for self-drive and short-haul journeys.
Accommodation and itinerary preferences evolve
Indian travellers travelling with pets are prioritising accommodation that offers space and flexibility. The data indicates a preference for vacation rentals and apartments, reflecting the need for pet-friendly amenities and comfort during longer stays.
Pets are also influencing itinerary planning. According to the research, 64% of travellers visited dog-friendly beaches or swimming areas, while an equal percentage dined at pet-friendly restaurants and cafés. Additionally, 59% explored pet-friendly towns and city centres, and 48% opted for hiking or nature-based activities.
The data also highlights that 47% of Indian travellers leave their pets at the accommodation during excursions, making pet-friendly facilities and services a key consideration when booking stays.
Rising demand for pet-inclusive travel
The increasing role of pets in travel decisions reflects broader lifestyle shifts, with travellers seeking more personalised and experience-led journeys. The rise in pet-friendly searches and travel behaviour aligns with growing global spending on pets, which reached approximately $157 bn in 2025.
Booking.com’s insights indicate that pets are no longer an afterthought in travel planning, but a central factor influencing where travellers go, how they travel, and the experiences they choose.
As demand for pet-inclusive travel grows, destinations and hospitality providers are expected to adapt their offerings, creating more tailored experiences that cater to both travellers and their pets.
Rahul Bhadana is a digital editor at TravTalk with experience spanning multiple content niches, with a strong focus on travel trade journalism and digital publishing. A graduate of Delhi University, his work covers editorial writing, content strategy and platform-led storytelling, supporting TravTalk’s digital growth and industry engagement. A technology enthusiast, he enjoys films, poetry and exploring new ideas across media and culture.
