In 2026, Vietnamese travelers are taking a more intentional approach to choosing accommodation, prioritizing the type of stay, trusted review scores, and breakfast inclusion. The data from digital travel platform Agoda, based on the most-used search filters on its platform, highlights how these factors are shaping booking decisions in Vietnam and across Asia.
At 31% of all filter activity, accommodation type ranked as the most important search filter among Vietnamese travelers in 2026, significantly higher than the regional average. This highlights a strong preference for selecting the right type of stay as the primary decision driver. Vietnam also stands out as one of the most decisive markets in Southeast Asia, on par with Malaysia and just slightly behind Indonesia (45%), highlighting a clear tendency among Vietnamese travelers to narrow down their options early by selecting specific stay formats such as hotels, resorts, or apartments.
Review scores of 8 and above account for 10% of all search filter activity in Vietnam, making it the second most-used filter. This is followed by practical considerations such as breakfast inclusion and payment options (both at 7%). The pattern indicates that Vietnamese travelers prioritize not only quality assurance through peer reviews, but also convenience and value-added services when selecting accommodation, reflecting a more informed and experience-focused booking behavior.
Vietnamese travelers want flexibility before, during and after the stay
Flexibility across booking, payment and stay options are clear priorities for Asian travelers in 2026. For Vietnamese travelers, payment options (7%) and free cancellation (4%) featured among the top 10 search filters, highlighting the interest in refundable and flexible payment choices that reduce booking friction.
Location is another key practical consideration, with “location” (4%) and “location score of 8 and above” (3%) both appearing in the top 10 search filters of Vietnamese travelers. This reflects a growing emphasis on accessibility and proximity to key attractions, transport hubs, or city centers. Overall, Vietnamese travelers are not only looking for quality stays, but also for experiences that offer flexibility, transparency, and ease across the entire journey.
Convenience and essential comforts drive Vietnamese travel choices
Dining is a key consideration across Asia, with “breakfast included” ranking as the second-most used filter at 12%. In Vietnam, however, it ranks third among top search filters at 7%, trailing behind accommodation type and review scores. This indicates that while Vietnamese travelers value having meals included for added convenience, it is not the primary factor influencing decision-making, but rather a complementary benefit that enhances the overall stay experience.
Beyond dining, Vietnamese travelers show interest in a range of in-stay amenities that contribute to comfort and relaxation. Filters such as swimming pools (3%) and balconies (2%) suggest a preference for spaces that enable leisure and downtime. Meanwhile, air conditioning, though appearing at just 1%, reflects a basic expectation rather than a differentiating factor, given Vietnam’s warm tropical climate.
Mr. Vu Ngoc Lam, Country Director, Vietnam, at Agoda, said: “In 2026, travelers across Vietnam are looking for the stay that feels right, whether this be through convenience, choice or comfort. Picking the type of accommodation comes first, but trusted reviews, tasty meals, and flexible payment options matter just as much. Agoda’s easy-to-use search filters and wide range of accommodation choices, amenities, locations and more enable our customers to find the perfect stay based on individual needs and wants.”
With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda enables travelers to plan and combine every part of their journey in one place. Running from 7 May to 21 May, Agoda’s 21st Birthday Sale will offer up to 60% off on hotel bookings, with a special flash sale of up to 70% on 19 May and exclusive deals on flights and activities. Discover more on Agoda’s mobile app or at Agoda.com.
