CloudPayments analysts, the research team within the Cloud group, examined how online demand shifted in the first half of April compared to the first half of March across four travel-related categories: train tickets, hotels, tour agencies, and airline tickets. The study’s findings were reviewed by socialbites.ca, which provided a detailed look at the numbers and trends.
The most pronounced rise appeared in the train ticket segment, where online demand surged by 93 percent. Transactions increased by 84 percent, and average ticket value rose by about 5 percent, moving from 3,899 rubles to 4,086 rubles. In contrast, airline tickets showed a softening in online turnover, dipping by 2 percent even though the number of transactions grew by 7 percent. The average check for air travel declined by 8 percent, from 67,422 rubles to 62,024 rubles. Popular domestic routes included Moscow, St. Petersburg, Kazan, Kaliningrad, Mineralnye Vody, and Sochi, while favored international destinations featured Istanbul, Antalya, Dubai, and Yerevan. These movements reflect evolving consumer preferences during the period and a broader shift toward more frequent, smaller-ticket purchases in air travel alongside a growth in domestic travel activity. — CloudPayments analytics report
In the Hotels category, online turnover rose by 73 percent, with the number of transactions up 40 percent and the average check climbing by 23 percent—from 25,144 rubles to 31,040 rubles—indicating stronger consumer engagement and willingness to invest more per booking. This pattern aligns with a broader trend toward longer stays or premium accommodations within the hotel segment as travelers seek greater comfort and better value during domestic trips. — CloudPayments analytics report
Demand in the tour organizers sector continued to strengthen in April as well. Online turnover advanced by 50 percent, the number of transactions grew by 41 percent, and the average check increased by 6 percent, shifting from 3,812 rubles to 4,054 rubles. The resilience of this category suggests sustained interest in guided experiences, package tours, and curated itineraries as travelers seek convenience and reliability when planning complex trips. — CloudPayments analytics report
Analysts attribute the uptick in online demand across these travel-oriented categories to the approaching May holidays, a period when many Russians typically plan excursions, weekend getaways, and longer vacations. This seasonal boost is often accompanied by a willingness to book earlier, compare options, and lock in favorable prices, all of which contribute to higher online transaction volumes and larger average checks across key travel segments. The data point to a consumer base that values efficiency, security, and transparent pricing as they arrange leisure travel for the upcoming holiday window. — CloudPayments analytics report
Earlier in the year, a significant share of travel activity centered on major hubs such as Moscow and St. Petersburg, with travellers often staying in hotels in popular destinations like Istanbul. The observed April dynamics reinforce the expectation that these routes and accommodation segments remain central to the Russian travel market, while new growth in domestic routes and international connections points to a diversified pattern of demand. Market participants may respond by tailoring payment options, optimizing checkout flows, and offering targeted promotions to capture this evolving consumer momentum. — CloudPayments analytics report