Golden Week Travel Trends: Chinese Tourists Opting for Cheaper Domestic Destinations
By Sophie Yu and Casey Hall
As the Golden Week holiday approaches, Chinese tourists are gearing up for longer trips compared to last year. Despite this, experts in the travel industry are predicting that spending may not see a significant increase.
Due to a slowing economy and low consumer confidence, many travelers are expected to choose more affordable domestic or short-haul overseas destinations. With a decline in airfares, tourists are taking advantage of cost-effective options for their holiday getaways.
Although the holiday period typically sees a surge in Chinese travelers, both domestically and abroad, this year's forecast predicts only a slight 0.7% increase in the daily average number of trips handled by the nation's transport sector.
Liu Simin, an official with the tourism arm of China Society for Futures Studies, stated, "It would be a good result if tourism spending remains flat with last year. People are more willing to travel when the economy is good, but when there is no economic growth, there is no tourism growth."
One Beijing office worker, Wang Xin, shared her plans to drive to Yangzhou with her family instead of taking a train, citing the toll-free holiday period and the need to save money during uncertain economic times.
Data from Flight Master reveals that domestic air ticket prices are expected to be 21% cheaper than last year, while international economy class airfares will see a 25% decrease compared to 2023 and a 7% drop from 2019.
Top international destinations for Chinese travelers are expected to be short-haul Asian hubs, with a shift towards longer-haul destinations like Australia, New Zealand, Britain, and France this year. Travelers are likely to take advantage of lower ticket prices to extend their stay and upgrade their accommodations.
While recent stimulus measures may have some impact on spending, analysts predict that purchases are unlikely to exceed 2023 levels for the holiday period. Some foreign airlines have reduced or halted flights to China due to insufficient demand and fierce competition from local carriers.
In conclusion, Chinese tourists are adapting their travel plans to accommodate the economic uncertainties of the current climate. By opting for more affordable destinations and taking advantage of lower airfares, travelers are seeking to make the most of the Golden Week holiday while being mindful of their finances.