Cost Concerns Hold Back Japanese Travellers, But Peace of Mind Still Drives Insurance Uptake

TOKYO, May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The inaugural Allianz Partners Travel Index, which surveyed 1,000 Japanese adults as part of a broader APAC study, reveals that nearly two-thirds (62%) of respondents do not plan to travel this year, with 92% citing a lack of money or high costs as the main reason.

At the same time, those who are making travel plans are doing so with care and intention. Two-thirds (67%) have already saved at least JPY226, for their future getaways, showing that for many, travel remains a valued goal despite economic pressures.

Travel Insurance: The Foremost Safety Measure for Peace of Mind 

Close to 90% of Japanese travellers planning a trip in 2025 say they will purchase travel insurance, reflecting strong concerns about safety and a pre-empting against unforeseen events. Whether protecting themselves from illness, lost luggage, or trip cancellations, travellers are preparing for the unexpected. Notably, more than half will access coverage through credit card perks or purchase directly from travel websites, with higher-budget travellers opting for the latter.

"Japanese travellers are taking a cautious yet deliberate approach to travel planning," said Vinay Surana, Regional Managing Director of Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa at Allianz Partners. "With uncertainty and cost concerns influencing decisions, we see a strong desire for peace of mind, especially through travel insurance. Travellers are prioritising not only where they go, but how safely and securely they can get there."

Rest, Reconnection and Regional Getaways Drive Travel Intent 

Among those planning trips, destinations in Oceania and nearby Asian countries are the most popular, especially for younger travellers and men, and with most trips averaging around nine days. Among the primary reasons for travel are visiting friends and family (47%) and taking time out for rest and relaxation (37%). YouTube has emerged as the top platform for destination research, following a trend towards drawing travel inspiration primarily from social media and word-of-mouth.

Safety and Comfort Among Key Concerns of Older Travellers

The report also delved into unique generational travel behaviours. Older Japanese travellers (50+) stand out for their heightened concern around travel risks such as theft and accidents. Many take additional steps to ensure a smoother travel experience, including packing for comfort, entertainment, and potential disruptions like lost luggage.

"Safety is a top priority for our Japanese customers, and this year's Travel Index shows that value is deeply ingrained across demographics," said Tomokazu Kaneko, Managing Director, Allianz Partners Japan. "As travel rebounds, our focus is on supporting that journey and offering the kind of reassurance that lets people enjoy their holidays with greater peace of mind."

Travel with Confidence

While financial prudence continues to weigh on decisions, especially among older adults, women, and low-income households, many Japanese still find ways to make travel happen. The Allianz Travel Index shows a deliberate and thoughtful return to travel, driven by a strong focus on preparedness and peace of mind.

About the Allianz Travel Index 2025

Allianz Partners commissioned Kantar Consumer Link to conduct an online survey of 502 Japanese adults between 31 January and 7 February 2025. Sampling is nationally representative, and is post-weighted by age, gender and region to ensure it matches the underlying population.

The same survey was also conducted in a few Asia Pacific markets, including Australia, New Zealand, Mainland China, Hong Kong, India, and Singapore.

About The Travel Index

Launching in Asia Pacific for the first time in 2025, the Allianz Partners Travel Index now contributes to a suite of consumer data from over 20,000 consumers in Asia Pacific, the USA, Canada, and Europe. By combining the insights of the Allianz Partners Asia Pacific Travel Index with our global counterparts, we gain a unique worldwide perspective on the traveller landscape, enabling us to identify emerging global trends and effectively respond to shifts in consumer preferences.

About Allianz Partners

Allianz Partners is a world leader in B2B2C insurance and assistance, offering global solutions that span international health, travel insurance, mobility and assistance. Customer-driven, our innovative experts are redefining insurance services by delivering future-ready, high-tech, high-touch products and solutions that go beyond traditional insurance. Our products are embedded seamlessly into our partners' businesses, sold through intermediary channels or directly to customers through the Allianz brand. Present in over 75 countries, our 21,900 employees speak 70 languages, handle over 72.5 million cases each year, and are motivated to go the extra mile to offer assistance to our customers around the world. 

Social Media

Follow us on X @AllianzPartners
Follow us on LinkedIn (9) Allianz Partners APAC & MEA: Overview | LinkedIn
Follow us on YouTube /allianzpartners
Follow us on Instagram @allianzpartners