Cost-conscious travel is reshaping how people across Asia plan their holidays in 2026, with new research from digital travel platform Agoda revealing that 63 per cent of Malaysian travellers are willing to consider lesser-known destinations if it means lower costs.
The findings, drawn from Agoda’s 2026 Travel Outlook Report, point to a broader regional shift toward more intentional and budget-aware travel behaviour that is also likely to influence how Asian visitors approach travel to and within Australia.
Nearly two-thirds of Malaysian travellers expect to spend US$50 or less per night on accommodation in 2026, while 59 per cent say price is the single most important factor when choosing where to stay. Domestic travel is also growing in appeal, with 47 per cent expecting most of their 2026 trips to be within Malaysia.
Despite the focus on value, travellers are not sacrificing the experiences they care most about. Relaxation remains the top reason for travel, cited by 69 per cent of respondents, followed by culinary experiences at 33 per cent. Family travel is strong, with 59 per cent planning to travel with family.
Fabian Teja, Agoda Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei, said travellers were planning more carefully but still prioritising what mattered most.
“Travelers are looking for options that help them manage their budgets while still enjoying the experiences that matter most, whether that is rest, time with loved ones, or discovering good food,” Mr Teja said.
