68% of Asia Pacific pet-owing travelers seek curated experiences

Euromonitor International’s 2024 Voice of the Consumer survey reveals that 68% of pet owners in the Asia-Pacific region actively seek curated travel experiences for their pets. This is the highest percentage globally and reflects a growing trend towards experiential consumption, as evidenced by the same survey showing 66% of these respondents prioritize memorable experiences over material possessions. The Asia-Pacific pet population has seen a compound annual growth rate of 2.4% between 2019 and 2024, and coupled with the rise of DINKWAD (dual income, no kids, with a dog) households, pet-related spending continues to expand.

This high demand for pet-inclusive travel is also booming in Japan. According to Biophilia Inc. (Coco Gourmet)’s “Pet Tourism Demand Survey,”(*1) a striking 96.3% of Japanese dog owners express a desire to travel with their pets, with 95.8% factoring pet-friendliness into their destination choices.

Yet, traveling with pets in Japan is far from effortless. While some railway companies in Japan have begun testing pet-only cars on limited dates and seats, most pets must travel in carriers placed in baggage racks. For airlines, travelling with pets often require an advanced telephone reservation and additional procedures, with animals usually confined to cargo holds rather than in the passenger cabin with their owners. As a result, travelers who consider their pets as family members often have to give up using public transportation when traveling with them.

International travel introduces complexities that few casual tourists can manage. Japan’s animal-quarantine rules vary from same-day release with complete paperwork to a six-month detention for pets missing a single vaccine window, which make Japan missing out on potential inbound tourists traveling with pets.
These challenges, however, represent significant opportunities. Expanding the Shinkansen pet-car pilot program, equipping regional trains and express buses with designated pet areas, and streamlining airline bookings through digital platforms would significantly improve logistical ease. Hotels can enhance their offerings with pet-friendly amenities such as easy-to-clean flooring, enclosed terraces, and nearby dog parks, justifying premium rates. Collaborations with pet food brands can create new revenue streams through specialized welcome gifts. Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) can further enrich the travel experience by providing information on veterinary clinics, walking routes, and pet-friendly cafes, fostering a sustainable and welcoming environment for both two-legged and four-legged guests.

Biophilia’s survey further indicates that over half of Japanese pet travelers now spend more than ¥10,000 per dog per trip, a 13-point increase from the previous survey. This spending trend likely extends to international tourists as well. By catering to this enthusiasm with thoughtful transportation options, certified accommodations, and inclusive experiences, Japan can not only tap into domestic demand but also establish itself as a leader in humane and sustainable pet tourism within Asia. When pets are welcomed as travelers, not treated as cargo, everyone benefits from a more enriching journey, transforming pet tourism from a niche market into a mainstream travel segment. （KY）
　
Reference:
( *1) Biophilia Inc. (Coco Gourmet) “Pet Tourism Demand Survey”
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