Digital travel platform Agoda has published its 2026 Travel Outlook Report, outlining the key trends expected to influence how people in Asia will travel next year. The survey findings highlight Malaysians’ increasing openness to use artificial intelligence (AI) when planning trips, growing interest in exploring destinations domestically, and travel motivations increasingly shaped by value, experiences, and convenience.
The findings, derived from a survey of Asian travellers as part of Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, reveal that Malaysians stand out in the region for their adoption in AI when planning holidays. Currently, 40% are already using AI to plan trips — the highest among the nine surveyed markets. More than half of respondents (59%) also said they are likely to use AI for their next trip, while 36% expressed trust in AI-generated information. Only 12% reporting feeling uneasy about relying on AI tools, reflecting Malaysia’s readiness to embrace AI-powered vacations.
Travellers also shared how they intend to use AI tools:
- 34% for destination recommendations
- 33% for suggestions on activities and attractions
- 29% for restaurant choices
Beyond organising itineraries, AI is increasingly seen as a practical way to search for destination ideas, activities, and options that meet travellers’ interests and budgets. This is particularly relevant as domestic travel gains traction, and travellers opt to explore secondary destinations. AI is emerging as a key enabler in this shift, helping Malaysians uncover hidden gems and craft more personalised, convenient, and enriching travel experiences closer to home.
Agoda’s findings also reveal that home is where the adventure begins for Malaysian travellers, with the appeal of domestic travel growing. Almost half (47%) plan to travel more domestically than internationally in 2026, a rise from 17% from last year. Secondary destinations are drawing more attention, with travellers pointing to lower travel costs, special promotions, and nature-based experiences as their top reasons for choosing lesser-known locations.
When it comes to travel habits and motivations, Malaysians are planning trips that balance rest, exploration, and value. For the average Malaysian travellers, most trips are expected to last between four to seven days, often spent with family (59%) or a spouse or partner (28%). Travellers remain mindful of their budgets, with 64% planning to spend USD50 (approx. RM206.62) or less per night on accommodation. Relaxation, culinary experiences, and shopping are identified by the respondents as their primary travel motivations. These preferences, along with the utilisation of AI tools, highlight a trend toward more personalised and practical travel planning that focuses on experiences.
“Looking ahead to 2026, Malaysians are increasingly prioritising travel that is purposeful and well-planned. As AI continues to offer convenient planning support, the trend is clear that travellers are seeking personalised, experience-driven trips that deliver real value for money. With Visit Malaysia 2026 on the horizon, Agoda looks forward to helping more travelers explore popular hotspots and emerging destinations in Malaysia and beyond,” said Fabian Teja, Country Director Malaysia and Brunei at Agoda.
Those making travel plans for 2026 can enjoy Agoda’s offerings of over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all easily combined in a single booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and visit Agoda.com for more information.
