China May Day travel rises while per trip spending dips
China domestic trips during the May Day holiday rose 3.6% to 325 million, but average spending per traveler decreased to 571 yuan. While total expenditure grew to 185.49 billion yuan, the dip in per capita spending highlights consumer caution amid a challenging economic environment.
China recorded 325 million domestic trips during the May Day holiday, a 3.6% increase over the previous year. Per-trip spending fell to 571 yuan from 574.1 yuan in 2025, signaling persistent caution among consumers. The data highlights a disconnect between rising travel volumes and the actual purchasing power of Chinese households.
### Consumer Spending Lags Travel Volume Total domestic travel expenditure reached 185.49 billion yuan ($27.27 billion) during the May 1-5 period, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. While total spending rose 2.9% year-on-year, the decline in per-trip expenditure reflects a broader trend of belt-tightening. In 2019, travelers spent 603.4 yuan per trip during the same holiday window.
