Paw-sitive Trend: Asia-Pacific's Pet Travel Boom Reshapes Hospitality

Singapore – November 6, 2025 – Forget leaving furry friends behind. Across Asia-Pacific, a growing wave of pet owners are refusing to compromise on travel, driving a significant boom in pet-inclusive tourism and forcing the hospitality industry to adapt. New data from digital travel platform Agoda reveals a sharp increase in searches for pet-friendly accommodations, with Thailand, South Korea, and India leading the charge.

Agoda reports a near doubling of pet-friendly accommodation listings in these key markets, and a 15% year-on-year increase in searches from South Korean travelers specifically. This isn’t just a niche trend; industry analysts predict the Asia-Pacific pet travel market will reach billions in the coming years, fueled by shifting demographics and an increasingly humanized view of pets.

The Rise of ‘Petcations’ & Demographic Shifts

The trend is being spearheaded by Millennials and Gen Z, who view pets as integral family members and are willing to spend more on experiences that include them. “We're seeing a complete shift in how people view travel,” explains a market research analyst specializing in travel trends. “It's no longer about just seeing a place; it's about experiencing it with all the people – and pets – you love.”

This sentiment is reflected in the demand for more than just basic pet-friendly policies. Travelers are actively seeking out hotels and accommodations offering specialized amenities, from dedicated pet menus and comfortable bedding to dog-walking services and nearby veterinary care. “Simply allowing a pet on the premises isn't enough anymore,” says a hotel manager in Seoul. “Guests expect a higher level of service and are willing to pay for it.”

A Billion-Dollar Opportunity – And Growing Competition

The economic implications of this trend are significant. Allied Market Research projects the global pet travel market will reach $9.3 billion by 2027, with Asia-Pacific experiencing the highest growth rate. Grand View Research estimates the region’s pet travel market will grow at a CAGR of 12.5% from 2023 to 2030.

This potential has spurred increased competition amongst hospitality providers. Agoda isn't alone in recognizing the opportunity. Booking.com has introduced enhanced pet-friendly filters, Expedia is running targeted campaigns towards pet owners, and Airbnb has updated its pet policies to encourage more listings. These platforms are all vying for a share of the burgeoning market.

“The companies that proactively cater to pet travelers will be the ones that thrive,” says a travel industry consultant. “It's about understanding the needs of this demographic and offering a seamless and enjoyable experience.”

Beyond the Bowl: Innovation in Pet-Friendly Hospitality

Hotels are responding to the demand with a range of innovative offerings. In Thailand, several resorts now offer dedicated “paw-cation” packages, including pet massages, gourmet pet meals, and guided dog-friendly excursions. In South Korea, a growing number of hotels are partnering with local pet boutiques and grooming salons to provide on-site services.

“We’ve seen a significant increase in guest satisfaction since we introduced our pet-friendly amenities,” says a hotel manager in Bangkok. “Guests appreciate the extra effort we make to accommodate their furry companions.”

However, offering a truly exceptional pet-friendly experience goes beyond amenities. Hotels must also address practical concerns, such as providing clear pet policies, ensuring adequate waste disposal facilities, and training staff on how to interact with animals.

“It's not just about letting pets stay; it's about creating a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for both pets and their owners,” explains a travel blogger specializing in pet-friendly travel.

Regional Variations and Future Trends

While Thailand, South Korea, and India are currently leading the charge, the pet travel boom is expected to spread to other parts of Asia-Pacific. Emerging markets like Vietnam and Indonesia are seeing a growing pet population and increasing disposable income, which is driving demand for pet-friendly travel options.

“We anticipate strong growth in these markets over the next few years,” says a market analyst. “The key will be to tailor offerings to local preferences and cultural norms.”

Looking ahead, several trends are likely to shape the future of pet travel. These include:

• Increased demand for luxury pet travel: Pet owners are increasingly willing to spend more on high-end accommodations and experiences for their pets.
• Growth of pet-friendly transportation options: Airlines and train operators are expected to expand their pet-friendly policies and services.
• Technological innovations: Apps and platforms that help pet owners plan pet-friendly trips and find local services are likely to become more popular.
• Focus on sustainability: Pet owners are becoming more conscious of the environmental impact of their travel and are seeking out eco-friendly pet travel options.

Adapting to the ‘Paw-sitive’ Future

The rise of pet-inclusive travel is reshaping the hospitality landscape and presenting both challenges and opportunities for businesses. Those that embrace the trend and prioritize the needs of pet travelers will be well-positioned to thrive in the years to come. Ignoring it, however, could mean missing out on a significant and growing market segment. The message is clear: welcome the paws, and your business may just reap the rewards.