Music has quietly become one of the most powerful forces shaping travel choices among young Indians. Airbnb’s new Experience-Led Travel Insights reveal that Gen Z are increasingly planning trips around live concerts and festivals, turning gigs into gateways for discovering new cities, extending stays, and spending time exploring local neighbourhoods well beyond the main event. For this generation, travel decisions are being driven less by calendars and more by culture. Live events and IRL experiences influence where they go, who they travel with, and how deeply they engage with the destination.
In 2026, music is set to play an even bigger role in shaping travel behaviour, with 62% of Gen Z planning trips around concerts and music festivals. This intent is already reflected in their current behaviour: more than one in three (36 per cent) start planning their trip as soon as they hear of an event.
Unlike traditional travel patterns driven by seasonality, holidays, or long weekends, young travellers are prioritising experiences. Their top motivations include the chance to explore a new destination and the excitement of being part of a once-in-a-lifetime cultural moment.
With over 17 years of experience in the B2B travel and hospitality sector, she brings deep insight into travel trade dynamics, industry challenges and market developments. She holds an MA in English Literature and a Diploma in Journalism from the Xavier Institute of Communications, Mumbai, which underpin her strong editorial expertise. An avid nature enthusiast, she prefers outdoor and adventure-led travel, including hiking and trekking.
