Malaysians are showing little intention of giving up their holidays in 2027, despite ongoing concerns about travel expenses and the cost of living. Instead, many are becoming more selective about where they go, how they spend and what they want to experience during their trips.
According to Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2027 report, released on 29 October 2026, 88% of Malaysian travellers plan to travel as much as or more than they do currently, indicating continued interest in both domestic and international holidays.
However, travel preferences are changing. Rather than focusing solely on conventional sightseeing, Malaysian travellers are showing interest in digital detox holidays, exclusive shopping experiences, music-related trips, favourable foreign exchange rates and fitness-focused accommodation.
The report identifies seven emerging travel trends for 2027, including Signal Severance, Pilgra-merch, Sound Bound, Currency Chasers, Multi-Mooning, Grand Odysseys and Gym-cation.
It also highlights destinations attracting increased interest among Malaysian travellers, with Palembang, Indonesia, recording a 437% year-on-year increase in searches, while Okinawa, Japan, emerges as a leading best-value destination following a 38% decline in flight prices and a 20% reduction in accommodation prices compared with the previous year.
Artificial intelligence is also becoming part of holiday planning, with 78% of Malaysian respondents expressing confidence in using AI to help plan and book travel.
Together, these findings suggest that Malaysians are approaching travel in 2027 with a stronger emphasis on value, personal interests and experiences that feel worthwhile.
According to Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2027 report, released on 29 October 2026, 88% of Malaysian travellers plan to travel as much as or more than they do currently, indicating continued interest in both domestic and international holidays.
However, travel preferences are changing. Rather than focusing solely on conventional sightseeing, Malaysian travellers are showing interest in digital detox holidays, exclusive shopping experiences, music-related trips, favourable foreign exchange rates and fitness-focused accommodation.
The report identifies seven emerging travel trends for 2027, including Signal Severance, Pilgra-merch, Sound Bound, Currency Chasers, Multi-Mooning, Grand Odysseys and Gym-cation.
It also highlights destinations attracting increased interest among Malaysian travellers, with Palembang, Indonesia, recording a 437% year-on-year increase in searches, while Okinawa, Japan, emerges as a leading best-value destination following a 38% decline in flight prices and a 20% reduction in accommodation prices compared with the previous year.
Artificial intelligence is also becoming part of holiday planning, with 78% of Malaysian respondents expressing confidence in using AI to help plan and book travel.
Together, these findings suggest that Malaysians are approaching travel in 2027 with a stronger emphasis on value, personal interests and experiences that feel worthwhile.
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| Cyndi Hui, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destination Expert, shares insights into changing Malaysian travel preferences and emerging holiday trends for 2027. |
88% of Malaysians Plan to Maintain or Increase Their Travel in 2027
Despite wider economic pressures, Skyscanner's research indicates that travel remains an important priority for many Malaysians.
The report found that 88% of Malaysian travellers intend to maintain or increase their travel plans in 2027, with respondents increasingly focused on making their holiday budgets work harder.
Rather than cutting back on travel altogether, many respondents are prioritising experiences that matter most to them once they reach their destinations.
Among the activities Malaysian travellers value are tours and activities during their holidays (47%), followed by authentic local experiences (42%) and visits to well-known tourist attractions (38%).
These findings suggest that travellers are looking beyond the cost of getting to a destination and considering what they will gain from the experience itself.
Affordability nevertheless remains central to travel decisions. According to the survey, 31% of Malaysian respondents identify flight costs as the biggest factor influencing their choice of destination, while 18% consider favourable exchange rates an important factor.
Among respondents planning to travel less, 66% cite flight costs as a reason, followed by 47% who are concerned about pressure on their budgets from the cost of living.
Younger Malaysian travellers also have specific priorities when selecting a destination, with safety (56%), budget accommodation (49%) and affordable flights (40%) among their leading considerations.
The findings reflect a travel market in which demand remains positive, but travellers are paying closer attention to the financial and practical aspects of their holidays.
Bryan Batista, Chief Executive Officer of Skyscanner, said these changing priorities are influencing how people choose destinations, book trips and assess the value of their travel experiences.
"Travel is entering a new era. As people become more intentional about how they spend their time and money, they're making different choices about where they go, how they book and what creates lasting value. They're prioritising meaningful experiences over material possessions, seeking confidence in every booking decision, and, in some cases, using AI during the planning process. At the same time, geopolitical instability is making travellers more conscious of risk, increasing the importance of trusted information, flexibility and transparency."
The research identifies seven travel trends that illustrate how these priorities could influence Malaysian holiday plans in 2027.
1. Signal Severance: Digital Detox Holidays Gain Popularity
As smartphones and constant connectivity become part of daily life, some Malaysian travellers are showing a growing interest in holidays that allow them to disconnect from digital distractions.
Skyscanner describes this trend as Signal Severance, referring to the desire to spend time away from notifications, work-related communication and continuous screen use.
Among Malaysian travellers considering an intentional digital detox, 71% believe disconnecting would help them connect more closely with nature, while 70% believe it would improve their connection with loved ones.
Rather than choosing destinations purely for their popular attractions or shopping opportunities, these travellers may place greater importance on quieter environments, outdoor experiences and opportunities to spend uninterrupted time with family or friends.
The report identifies Tashkent, Uzbekistan, and Dili, Timor-Leste, as destinations experiencing growing search interest in this context.
According to Skyscanner, searches for Tashkent increased by 190% year on year, while Dili recorded an increase of 177%.
These figures represent changes in search interest rather than confirmed increases in visitor arrivals.
The trend highlights a shift towards more intentional holidays, where stepping away from digital routines becomes part of the travel experience.
2. Pilgra-merch: Travelling for Exclusive Shopping and Collectibles
Shopping has long been part of the holiday experience, but Skyscanner's research suggests that some travellers are now planning trips around specific products or merchandise that cannot easily be purchased elsewhere.
The report calls this trend Pilgra-merch, describing journeys motivated by the desire to obtain location-exclusive items, regional collectibles or products associated with particular destinations.
According to the findings, 72% of Malaysian respondents had visited a specific destination or shop during the previous year specifically to purchase an item available only there.
Furthermore, 35% reported doing so more than once.
These shopping-related trips may involve merchandise sold at particular locations, limited-edition products or locally distinctive items that carry personal significance for the buyer.
Unlike conventional souvenir shopping, Pilgra-merch places the purchase itself at the centre of the journey.
For some travellers, obtaining the item becomes part of the experience, making the destination memorable because of something they deliberately travelled to find.
The trend also illustrates how shopping preferences, fandoms and personal interests can influence itinerary planning.
3. Sound Bound: Music and Cultural Experiences Influence Travel Decisions
Music-related travel is expanding beyond major international concerts, with travellers increasingly interested in the local sounds and cultural experiences associated with different destinations.
Skyscanner identifies this trend as Sound Bound, highlighting the role that music festivals, carnival celebrations and live performances can play in shaping holiday decisions.
Among Malaysian respondents interested in music-focused holidays, 41% favour carnival experiences, while 39% are interested in traditional concert venues.
Music genre is another important consideration, with 34% identifying it as their biggest factor when booking a music-related trip.
Meanwhile, 19% are motivated by opportunities to watch performers who do not tour in their home country.
These findings suggest that music can provide a reason to explore destinations that travellers might not otherwise consider.
A holiday built around music may also introduce visitors to local traditions, performance venues and cultural communities, extending the experience beyond the performance itself.
For Malaysian travellers, the trend reflects how personal entertainment preferences can become part of destination selection and travel planning.
4. Currency Chasers: Exchange Rates Become a Travel Planning Strategy
For travellers looking to make their holiday budgets go further, favourable exchange rates are becoming an increasingly important consideration.
Skyscanner calls this trend Currency Chasers, referring to travellers who actively compare destinations based on how far their money can stretch.
The report found that 66% of Malaysian respondents always or often consider the strength of a destination's currency when booking a trip.
More significantly, 63% have changed their intended destination because a more favourable exchange rate made another location cheaper to visit.
This figure rises to 68% among Millennials, indicating that currency considerations are influencing travel choices within this group.
The trend reflects a more flexible approach to destination planning, where travellers may compare several countries before deciding which offers better overall value.
For example, the same travel budget may provide different levels of purchasing power depending on the exchange rate, accommodation costs, dining prices and activities available at each destination.
However, exchange rates alone do not determine the total cost of a holiday. Travellers must also consider airfares, local transport, accommodation and other expenses before concluding that one destination offers better value.
Skyscanner's findings nevertheless indicate that currency comparisons are becoming part of how Malaysians evaluate their travel options.
5. Multi-Mooning: Couples Choose Several Honeymoons Instead of One
The traditional idea of a single honeymoon is evolving, with some couples choosing to spread their celebrations across several shorter holidays.
Known as Multi-Mooning, this trend involves taking multiple romantic trips rather than relying on one extended honeymoon immediately after a wedding.
Skyscanner's research found that 40% of Malaysian respondents prefer a single honeymoon, while 36% would rather celebrate through multiple mini-moons.
This approach may appeal to couples who want to experience several destinations at different stages of their relationship or distribute their travel expenses over a longer period.
A couple might, for example, choose a shorter getaway after their wedding before planning another holiday at a later date.
The report highlights Cebu, Philippines, and Batam, Indonesia, as destinations attracting growing interest in relation to this travel trend.
Searches for Cebu increased by 237% year on year, while Batam recorded an increase of 131%.
The findings suggest that couples are exploring more flexible ways to celebrate important milestones through travel, balancing personal preferences with available time and budgets.
6. Grand Odysseys: History, Mythology and Ancient Civilisations Inspire Trips
Historical destinations are gaining attention from travellers interested in understanding the stories, civilisations and events that shaped different parts of the world.
Skyscanner describes this trend as Grand Odysseys, reflecting journeys influenced by classical mythology, significant historical events and famous figures from the past.
According to the report, 79% of Malaysian respondents say a classical myth, historical event or both have influenced their travel plans.
Among travellers inspired by these subjects, 62% are attracted to architectural landmarks, including sites such as Pompeii, the Parthenon and the Colosseum.
Meanwhile, 60% are interested in destinations connected with historical figures such as Alexander the Great, Cleopatra and Julius Caesar.
The trend suggests that travellers are looking for experiences that provide a greater understanding of history and culture rather than simply visiting famous landmarks for photographs.
Historical sites can offer opportunities to learn about architecture, cultural traditions and the events that influenced societies over different periods.
For travellers drawn to these experiences, planning a holiday may involve researching a destination's historical significance before deciding which places to visit.
7. Gym-cation: Fitness and Nutrition Become Part of Holiday Planning
Maintaining a health and fitness routine while travelling is becoming a consideration for Malaysians who want to remain active during their holidays.
Skyscanner identifies this trend as Gym-cation, where travellers consider fitness facilities, nutritional options and opportunities for physical activity when choosing accommodation.
The report found that 86% of Malaysian respondents would be likely to book a hotel offering a nutritional performance breakfast.
Meanwhile, 38% actively seek accommodation with fitness facilities and would choose one hotel over another if its fitness offering were better.
A further 39% consider fitness facilities a desirable additional feature, even if they are not their main reason for selecting accommodation.
These findings indicate that hotel amenities can influence travel decisions beyond conventional considerations such as room prices, location and comfort.
For travellers who regularly exercise, access to a gym or suitable fitness facilities may make it easier to maintain their routines while away from home.
Similarly, accommodation offering appropriate breakfast options may appeal to those who place importance on nutrition during their travels.
The trend highlights how personal lifestyle preferences can shape holiday accommodation choices, particularly among travellers seeking to balance relaxation with everyday wellbeing.
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| Skyscanner Travel Trends 2027 merchandise showcased as part of the report launch, which highlights seven emerging travel trends among Malaysian travellers. |
Palembang, Indonesia, Tops Trending Destinations for Malaysian Travellers
Apart from identifying emerging travel behaviours, Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2027 report highlights destinations experiencing significant year-on-year growth in searches from Malaysian travellers.
The company examined destinations attracting increased attention as travellers look beyond familiar holiday locations for new experiences and better value.
According to Skyscanner, Palembang, Indonesia, recorded a 437% year-on-year increase in searches, making it the fastest-rising destination identified in the report.
Located in South Sumatra, Palembang is known for its riverside setting and cultural heritage, offering an alternative to some of Indonesia's more established international tourism destinations.
The reported increase indicates growing interest in the city among Malaysian users searching for travel options.
However, search growth does not necessarily correspond to the same percentage increase in actual bookings or visitor arrivals.
Other destinations highlighted in connection with the report's emerging travel trends include Tashkent, Dili, Cebu and Batam, each recording substantial growth in searches within the relevant reporting period.
The figures point towards interest in a wider variety of destinations, including regional cities and locations that may not traditionally feature among the most familiar holiday choices.
While Skyscanner refers to a list of ten destinations with the largest year-on-year increases in searches, the supplied announcement identifies Palembang as the leading destination without providing the full ranked list.
Okinawa, Japan, Leads Skyscanner's Best-Value Destinations for 2027
For Malaysian travellers seeking better value, Skyscanner has also examined destinations where flight prices have fallen compared with the previous year.
The company identifies Okinawa, Japan, as its leading best-value destination for 2027, based on reductions in both flight and accommodation prices.
According to the report, flight prices to Okinawa declined by 38% year on year, while accommodation prices fell by 20% over the same comparison period.
These figures suggest that Okinawa may offer more attractive travel costs compared with the earlier period examined by Skyscanner, particularly for travellers flexible about their holiday plans.
Okinawa is known for its island scenery, beaches and cultural attractions, offering a different travel experience from Japan's major urban destinations.
For Malaysian holidaymakers interested in visiting Japan, the reported price declines may make Okinawa worth considering when comparing possible destinations.
However, the percentages represent changes in observed prices within Skyscanner's reporting data and do not guarantee that every flight or accommodation booking will be cheaper.
Actual costs can vary depending on travel dates, booking conditions, accommodation preferences and availability.
Travellers should therefore compare total trip expenses rather than relying solely on reported percentage reductions when evaluating destination affordability.
78% of Malaysians Feel Confident Using AI for Travel Planning
Artificial intelligence is also becoming an increasingly familiar part of how Malaysians research destinations and organise their holidays.
According to Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2027 research, 78% of Malaysian respondents feel confident using AI to help plan and book travel.
The report identifies several areas where travellers expect AI to provide assistance, including destination research (61%), destination inspiration (53%) and itinerary building (51%).
These findings suggest that travellers are interested in using AI to simplify parts of the planning process, particularly when comparing potential destinations or organising activities.
Cyndi Hui, Skyscanner Travel Trends and Destination Expert, said Malaysian travellers are becoming more considered in how they plan their holidays, with AI offering a way to reduce some of the manual work involved.
"Malaysian travellers are becoming smarter planners. To maximise value in 2027, AI can help take some of the manual work out of trip planning. In fact, 78% of Malaysian travellers feel confident using AI to help plan and book travel, with destination research (61%), destination inspiration (53%) and itinerary building (51%) among its most anticipated uses.
"Tools like Skyscanner's Search with AI can help travellers turn inspiration into practical trip ideas by suggesting destinations based on their preferences and connecting them with relevant flight options. By combining AI with practical habits such as staying flexible on dates, comparing destinations and keeping an eye on value, travellers can make more informed choices and ensure their travel is better spent in 2027."
Skyscanner's Search with AI feature is designed to help users discover potential destinations based on their preferences before connecting them with relevant flight options.
For example, travellers who have not settled on a particular destination may use AI-assisted search to explore travel ideas based on the types of experiences they want or the priorities they have established for their trip.
However, AI-generated travel suggestions should still be checked against current information, particularly when they involve flight schedules, entry requirements, accommodation availability or other details that can change.
The report's findings indicate that AI is increasingly viewed as a supporting tool for travel planning rather than a replacement for comparing available options and verifying booking information.
How Malaysians Can Find Better Travel Value in 2027
Although Skyscanner's report highlights growing demand for travel, it also suggests that Malaysians are paying closer attention to their holiday budgets.
Based on the trends identified, travellers looking to manage costs may benefit from comparing more than one destination before committing to their plans.
A favourable exchange rate can make certain expenses more affordable, but it should be assessed alongside flight prices, accommodation, transport and the activities planned during the trip.
Travellers with flexible schedules may also find it useful to compare prices across different departure dates rather than focusing exclusively on a fixed itinerary.
Similarly, those interested in music events, historical attractions or location-exclusive merchandise should consider how these experiences affect their overall travel budget.
The report also demonstrates why accommodation preferences are becoming more varied. Some travellers prioritise affordability, while others may be willing to spend more for features such as fitness facilities or access to particular experiences.
Rather than following a single approach to holiday planning, Malaysian travellers appear increasingly willing to adjust their choices according to what they consider most valuable.
This may involve choosing a less familiar destination, travelling for a particular personal interest or spending more on activities while reducing costs elsewhere.
Purposeful Travel and Smart Spending Shape Malaysia's 2027 Outlook
Skyscanner's Travel Trends 2027 report paints a picture of Malaysian travellers who remain interested in exploring new places while becoming more deliberate about how they use their time and money.
With 88% intending to maintain or increase their travel plans, holiday demand remains positive despite concerns about affordability and wider economic conditions.
At the same time, the seven identified trends show how different interests are shaping decisions, from taking a break from digital distractions and travelling for music to planning multiple honeymoons or selecting hotels with better fitness facilities.
The emergence of Palembang as a fast-rising searched destination and Okinawa as a leading best-value option also highlights the importance of comparing destinations rather than relying exclusively on familiar choices.
For Malaysians planning their holidays in 2027, the report's central message is that travel value increasingly depends on both the financial cost and the personal experience gained from the journey.
