Bangkok: Thai tourists are increasingly focusing on saving money and searching for nearby destinations for their travels.

According to Thai News Agency, Agoda reveals that Thai travelers are showing a preference for short-distance trips that are easy to plan, highlighting their desire for shorter travel times and a focus on convenience.

Agoda reported a notable surge in searches for accommodations in nearby destinations during the Labor Day and Coronation Day long weekend, from April 30th to May 4th, 2026, compared to the same period last year. This heightened interest spans both domestic and international travel, with Rayong emerging as the most searched domestic destination and Ho Chi Minh City as the top choice for international travel.

Destinations that are easily accessible by car from Bangkok have attracted considerable attention, with Rayong experiencing the most significant increase in searches at 44%, followed by Pattaya at 40%, Chonburi at 29%, Koh Samet at 22%, and Hua Hin/Cha-am at 19%. This trend underscores the appeal of short-distance, easy-to-plan travel.

Changing travel behaviors may be influenced by rising travel costs and the growing popularity of budget-friendly and flexible travel options. Moreover, Rayong's increasing popularity is bolstered by efforts to promote agro-tourism, featuring seasonal fruit orchards and farm activities that add a new dimension to the tourist destination.

Among destinations farther from Bangkok, Krabi saw a 13% increase in searches, while Chiang Mai experienced a 28% increase. For international travel, searches for accommodation and attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, showed the highest increase at 134%, followed by Da Nang at 58% and Hong Kong at 2%. Seoul, South Korea, was the only top-ranking destination not considered short-haul, with a 49% growth rate, likely driven by travelers seeking the spring season.

Ms. Akkapon Rodkhong, Country Director for Thailand and Indochina at Agoda, highlighted that a clear trend in travel decisions is increased budget considerations. Travelers prioritize simple and convenient trips, resulting in the rising popularity of nearby and easily planned destinations. For those planning mid-year trips, Agoda offers over 6 million accommodations, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities and experiences.