Extended Lunar New Year sees sharp rise in Chinese outbound
Spring Festival Travel: Where Are Travelers Heading?
China is bracing for a surge in travel during the 40-day Spring Festival, with an estimated 9.5 billion passenger trips expected. That's up from 9.02 billion last year. Thailand, Russia, and Australia are popular destinations, with international seat capacity up around 9% before the holidays.
Destination Hotspots
Booking data is showing some interesting trends. Here's a breakdown:
- Thailand: Still a top choice thanks to its warm weather and established tourism.
- Russia: Bookings have more than doubled since Moscow dropped visa requirements for Chinese visitors.
- Australia: Experiencing a strong recovery in long-haul travel, with bookings up over 100% on some platforms.
- Japan: Travel has decreased due to political tensions and safety concerns. Flights between China and Japan were down almost 50% in early February.
The Numbers Behind the Trends
| Destination | YoY Booking Change | Why? |
|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Stable/Leading | Good weather, affordable, well-established routes |
| Russia | +100%+ | No visas for Chinese visitors, easier comparison to last year |
| Australia | >+100% | Rebound in long‑haul travel, more available seats |
| Japan | −49% flights | Political issues, safety warnings, cancelled flights |
Impact on Airports and Ground Transportation
With more international flights, airports will be busier than usual. This affects ground transportation, requiring more taxis and transfer services. Expect to see:
- Longer wait times for taxis due to increased demand.
- Higher demand for larger vehicles, especially for families traveling to warm or snowy destinations.
- Travelers looking for the best deals, making competitive and clear pricing important.
- New transfer routes popping up due to visa changes in places like Russia.
What Travel Companies Are Saying
Flight Master is reporting big drops in traffic to Japan, prompting airlines and platforms to adjust their refund policies. IBA notes the growing importance of international markets during the Spring Festival. Spring Tour (part of Spring Airlines) and Dragon Trail Research have seen a shift towards experiences, even with economic concerns.
Tips for Booking Transfers During the Holidays
If you're planning airport pickups or traveling between cities during the festival, plan! Book early, pick the right vehicle, and confirm all the details.
Booking Checklist:
- Confirm your meet-and-greet location and arrival terminal.
- If you can, verify the driver's name and license details.
- Choose the right vehicle (private, sedan, 6-seater, limousine) based on luggage and passengers.
- Compare prices and cancellation policies.
Trends and reviews can be helpful, but nothing beats your own experience. I've found that firsthand trips show you the little things that ratings miss. A private transfer service can help you hire a car with a driver from verified providers at good prices. It's all about making the right choice without spending too much or being disappointed. Start planning your next trip and consider booking a private car.
In summary, Chinese outbound travel is shifting, with Thailand, Russia, and Australia gaining popularity while Japan declines. For travelers and businesses, this means more airport pickups, different vehicle needs, changing prices, and the need to book services ahead of time. A booking platform gives you a way to book taxis and private transfers worldwide, see car and driver info, and get reliable rides for city, airport, or intercity trips. This helps you know what to expect in terms of price, service, and seating, so you can book confidently. Worth it.
