New data from YouGov’s Hong Kong international traveler outlook 2026 reveals that Hong Kong’s international travellers are adjusting their plans for the year ahead as rising travel costs and shifting perceptions of value reshape how and where they intend to travel.

Strong travel appetite, but signs of pullback

Nearly three in five Hong Kong residents (57%) travel abroad at least once a year, highlighting the territory’s long-standing international outlook. However, 2025 saw a moderation in global travel habits: One in four international travellers (27%) reduced the number of trips they took, with financial and personal reasons cited most frequently.

Rising costs influence 2026 travel plans

More than half of Hong Kong’s international travellers (52%) say rising costs in 2025 affected their travel decisions, with men significantly more likely than women to report this (62% vs 43%). Looking ahead to 2026:

  • 35% plan to seek cheaper destinations (42% of men vs 30% of women)
  • 33% expect to reduce the number of international trips they take
  • 17% intend to continue travelling as usual despite higher prices, with women more likely than men to do so

Cost-saving measures are becoming more common, including travelling during off-peak seasons (55%), booking early (47%) and choosing lower-cost destinations (41%).

Changing perceptions of destination value

Across the top 10 destinations featured in the report, respondents were more likely to say that value for money has worsened rather than improved compared with last year. This sentiment was especially strong among younger travellers (18–34), suggesting they are feeling cost pressures more intensely.

Key destinations such as Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia were more commonly viewed as offering poorer value for money, indicating growing price sensitivity tied to rising accommodation, transport and dining costs.

A more deliberate traveller emerges

As Hong Kong heads into 2026, travellers remain eager to explore internationally but are becoming more selective and value-driven. Economic pressures are prompting a shift toward careful planning, cost-conscious decision-making, and recalibrated destination choices, reshaping what international travel looks like for Hong Kongers in the year ahead.

Download the full report here.

Methodology

The insights in this report have been sourced via YouGov Surveys: Serviced – providing rapid answers from the right audience. The multi-region survey was conducted from October 20, 2025 – November 11, 2025, with 510 respondents in Hong Kong.

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