Financial concerns make Singaporeans APAC’s most cost‑conscious travellers

Most are adjusting booking habits instead of cancelling overseas travel plans outright.

Financial concerns are making Singaporeans the most cost-conscious travellers in Asia-Pacific, but they are still travelling overseas by changing how they plan and book their trips, according to Klook's Travel Pulse 2026 survey.

The survey found that 71% of Singapore respondents said financial concerns were the biggest factor affecting their confidence to travel, the highest amongst travellers surveyed across Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

Despite this, 80% said they are still travelling this year after changing their travel plans.

Klook reported 47% said they searched for deals and discounts, 46% booked earlier to get better prices, and 31% chose cheaper hotels whilst visiting the same destinations.

The survey also found that overcrowding is becoming a bigger factor in travel decisions.

Around 66% of Singapore respondents said it has a significant or complete influence on where they travel, whilst 94% said it has at least some influence.

"Singaporeans are travelling smarter, not less, whilst planning more intentionally, seeking better value, and choosing experiences that matter most," said Sarah Wan, general manager of Klook Singapore.

Japan remained the top destination for Singapore travellers for the second year in a row, with demand rising nearly 20% year on year.

Tokyo and Osaka remained the most popular cities, whilst interest also grew in Sapporo, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and Kyoto.

Bookings to mainland China doubled from a year earlier, led by Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, and Hangzhou.

Vietnam also saw demand grow by more than 50% year on year, led by Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Sapa, Hanoi, and Ha Long City.

The survey found that 42% of Singapore travellers now start planning a trip by choosing the experience they want, rather than the destination.

Meanwhile, 57% said they prefer booking through dedicated travel platforms, with customer reviews remaining an important factor in their decisions.

Klook's Travel Pulse 2026 surveyed travellers across Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

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