Luxury on EMI: The New Trend of Easy Payment Holidays in India
For years, luxury holidays were a dream reserved for a select few — the kind who could drop ₹1 lakh or more without blinking. But in 2025, that narrative is changing fast. A new wave of smart travelers is redefining how India vacations — through Luxury on EMI.
Yes, you read that right. Families are now booking 5-star stays, beachfront villas, and private pool resorts — all without paying the full amount upfront. Easy EMIs and flexible payment holidays are making luxury travel not just a privilege, but a possibility for everyone.
How the “Luxury on EMI” Trend Took Off
The concept first gained traction post-pandemic, as travel companies, online portals, and even banks sought new ways to revive tourism. With rising disposable incomes and the “revenge travel” wave, Indians began prioritizing experiences over expenses.
To match this mindset, travel platforms like MakeMyTrip, Thomas Cook, and EaseMyTrip partnered with banks and fintechs to introduce zero-cost EMI holiday packages. Suddenly, a ₹90,000 Maldives vacation could be split into 6 or 12 easy payments — no stress, no guilt.
The result? An explosion in luxury travel bookings among India’s growing middle class.
Why Families Love the Easy Payment Holiday Model
- No Big Upfront Costs
Luxury resorts and international trips usually demand large pre-payments. With EMI options, travelers can now pay small monthly amounts — just like a Netflix subscription, but way better. - Zero or Low Interest
Many travel partners offer 0% interest on EMIs for 3–6 months, making luxury more affordable without the financial pinch. - Flexible Packages
Families can now customize trips, choosing from curated resorts, flights, and experiences — all bundled into manageable payment plans. - Psychological Freedom
Paying over time makes travelers feel financially comfortable. It removes the “luxury guilt” and encourages more spontaneous travel decisions.
Who’s Offering These EMI Holidays in India
- MakeMyTrip EMI Travel Plans: Tie-ups with HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank allow easy installments for flights and hotels.
- Thomas Cook “Book Now, Pay Later” Packages: Perfect for international trips with extended EMI options.
- EaseMyTrip Holiday EMI: Offers instant credit options through leading fintechs.
- Luxury Resort Chains: Some premium resorts now offer in-house EMI options through credit card partnerships.
Even luxury brands like Taj, Oberoi, and Leela have started introducing flexible payment models during festive seasons, making the experience more inclusive than ever.
Millennials & Gen Z Are Leading the Change
Unlike earlier generations that saw luxury travel as an indulgence, millennials and Gen Z travelers see it as self-investment. They’re willing to plan, budget, and pay over time for premium experiences that make memories.
Interestingly, many young couples and working professionals are using credit-linked EMI options for weekend getaways, destination weddings, and even solo retreats.
Luxury on EMI isn’t just about affordability — it’s about accessibility, empowerment, and smarter travel choices.
The Economic Ripple Effect
This new trend is benefiting the travel economy at large:
- Resorts and hotels are seeing higher occupancy rates.
- Banks and fintech companies are expanding travel credit portfolios.
- Tour operators are tailoring EMI-based luxury packages to attract mid-segment travelers.
It’s a win-win ecosystem where everyone benefits — the traveler, the brand, and the economy.
A Peek Into the Future: Subscription Holidays
The “Luxury on EMI” trend is paving the way for subscription-based holiday models — where families can pay a fixed monthly fee to enjoy multiple vacations a year. This model, already popular in the U.S. and Europe, is slowly entering the Indian market with brands like Club Mahindra and new-age travel startups.
Soon, owning a luxury experience could feel just like having a gym membership — regular, planned, and financially stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Luxury travel in India is no longer about exclusivity — it’s about inclusivity. The Luxury on EMI trend proves that 5-star holidays don’t have to break the bank. Instead, they can fit right into your monthly budget.
Whether it’s a Himalayan retreat, a Kerala backwater villa, or a Maldives overwater stay — your dream vacation is now just an EMI away.