APAC travellers rank payment security as top concern, Visa says

Card acceptance followed at 27% as more travellers brought cards and mobile wallets.

Payments are becoming a bigger part of how Asia-Pacific (APAC) travellers plan their trips, as more people check security and card acceptance before they leave.

The report found that payment security is a top concern for 33% of APAC respondents when preparing for travel, according to Visa’s 2026 Global Travel Intentions study.

Card acceptance followed at 27%. Visa said this reflects the wider use of digital payments amongst travellers in the region, with 73% saying they bring cards or mobile wallets on their trips.

The study was based on more than 47,000 respondents worldwide, including over 17,000 from APAC markets.

Visa said travellers in the region are not cutting back on travel despite higher costs and global uncertainty. Instead, they are planning more carefully, choosing familiar destinations and keeping some flexibility in their schedules.

The report found that 63% of APAC respondents travelled within the region. 

This was much higher than planned travel to Central Europe, the Middle East and Africa at 16%, Europe at 13%, and North America at 6%.

Japan was the top destination, chosen by 19% of respondents. Australia followed at 7%. Thailand, South Korea and Hong Kong completed the top five, each at about 5%.

For travel plans in the next 12 months, Japan remained the leading choice, with 28% of respondents naming it as a destination.

Australia followed at 16%, whilst Hong Kong and South Korea were both at 13%. The report also found that APAC travellers are using artificial intelligence to help plan trips. 

Nearly half, or 49%, said they use AI tools to find destinations and travel ideas. Another 41% use AI to gather travel reviews and recommendations, whilst 35% use it to discover local tours and experiences.

Travellers are also booking key parts of their trips earlier. Visa said 79% booked accommodation before travelling. 

However, only 51% booked experiences in advance, showing that many travellers still want room to decide what to do once they arrive.

The study also found that 72% of dining decisions and 65% of transport choices are made after travellers reach their destination.

Visa APAC Chief Marketing Officer Danielle Jin said the findings show that travel in the region is becoming more planned and practical, with travellers looking for secure payment options and flexible travel experiences throughout their trips.