[Edaily Kang Gyeong-rok Travel Reporter] Interest in short getaways—spending a day at a hotel over the weekend—is on the rise. More than half of Korean travelers reported an increased interest in one-night weekend stays over the past year. The survey found that price was the most important factor when choosing accommodations.

Hotels.com, the hotel booking platform of Expedia Group, released its global travel trends report titled “Unpack ’27,” which details these findings, on the 20th at The L’Escape Hotel in Seoul. The report is based on an analysis of a survey conducted from August 4 to September 1 among 26,000 adults in 16 countries—including 1,000 South Koreans—and the company’s search data. The survey targeted adults planning to travel within the next three years.
According to the survey, 55% of Korean respondents said their interest in one-night weekend stays had increased over the past year. Ninety-five percent of respondents said they plan to book a one-night hotel stay for leisure purposes in the future. Global search volume for one-night stays on Hotels.com also increased by approximately 10% year-over-year. This figure is based on searches for one-night stays with check-in dates between Thursday and Sunday.
Hotels.com has categorized the practice of enjoying one-night trips by taking advantage of weekends or short breaks as “Trip Snacking.” Seventy-nine percent of respondents worldwide said they plan to book a one-night stay within the next year. Among Gen Z and Millennials, this figure rose to 83%.
The most common reason Koreans cited for considering a one-night trip was to celebrate special occasions such as birthdays or anniversaries, at 48%. This was followed by recharging between longer trips (38%), using hotel amenities such as spas and swimming pools (31%), difficulty fitting a longer trip into their schedule (22%), and lack of financial flexibility (16%). These results are based on multiple responses.
Price emerged as the most important factor in choosing accommodations. Fifty-nine percent of Korean respondents cited good prices or special deals as their primary selection criteria. This was followed by proximity to specific locations (35%), on-site food and beverage facilities (27%), wellness programs such as spas (23%), and travel distance by car (22%). The survey found that even for short stays, accessibility and amenities—not just price—play a significant role in the decision-making process.
The atmosphere and design of accommodations also influenced bookings. Sixty-two percent of Korean respondents reported having booked a hotel based on its atmosphere or aesthetic appeal. Eighty-two percent expressed interest in staying at a Gothic-style hotel. Global search demand for historic castle accommodations on Hotels.com increased by 20% compared to the previous year.
Lavinia Rajaram, Head of PR for Asia at Expedia Group, said, “Travelers are seeking experiences that align with their interests, passions, and preferred styles, and they are setting clearer goals and criteria for their travel choices.”