How India’s Growing Tourist Spending Made It the U.S. Second-Largest Overseas Market

India has climbed to the position of the United States’ second-largest overseas market by visitor spending, a shift highlighted by Brand USA’s inaugural Travel Week India in Bengaluru and the rollout of the America the Beautiful campaign.

At a glance: the numbers that matter

Recent engagement between US destination marketers and the Indian travel trade underscores a notable rise in both spending and trips. Key figures reveal the scale of this development and its trajectory through 2028.

Why India’s outbound travel to the U.S. is growing

Several trends power the increase in spending and trips from India to the United States:

• Experience-led travel: Indian travelers are increasingly choosing multi-generational and experiential itineraries that often require longer stays and higher on-ground spending.
• Improved connectivity: More direct flights and expanding route networks make US destinations easier and quicker to reach.
• Rising middle- and upper-income cohorts: Greater disposable incomes translate into willingness to pay for premium tours, private transfers and guided experiences.
• Marketing and product development: Brand USA’s dedicated outreach — including Travel Week India — has created tailored offers and distribution channels that resonate with Indian travelers.

Brand USA Travel Week India and the America the Beautiful campaign

Brand USA staged its first Travel Week India in Bengaluru, convening U.S. destinations, travel trade professionals and media partners. The event showcased the new America the Beautiful campaign across connected TV, digital and out-of-home channels, aiming to emotionally connect with Indian travelers and convert interest into bookings. Brand USA also announced a forthcoming Global Ambassador Program tied to the U.S. 250th anniversary in 2026 to strengthen global trade relationships.

Practical outcomes for travel providers and destinations

Expect a rebalancing of product offerings and distribution flows. Destinations that tailor tours, accommodations and transport for Indian preferences—such as family-friendly attractions, diverse dining options and seamless transfer services—will likely see stronger performance. Trade engagement is set to increase cooperation across both public and private sectors to build the right itineraries and expand distribution.

What this means for taxis, transfers and ground mobility

Higher visitor numbers and spending tend to increase demand for reliable ground transport, from airport transfers to private chauffeur services. Operators and booking platforms should have a mind to adapt in several ways:

1. Vehicle variety: Offer options from private sedans to multi-seater vans and limousines to serve family and group travel.
2. Transparent pricing: Display exact fares, seat counts and surcharge policies up front to build trust with new international customers.
3. Service details: Include driver language skills, license verification and ratings so travelers can choose confidently.
4. Pre-booked airport transfers: Emphasize punctuality and meet-and-greet services to reduce arrival stress.

Tips for travelers from India visiting the U.S.

• Pre-book airport transfers to guarantee car seat needs and timing.
• Choose providers that show vehicle make, model and driver ratings to avoid surprises.
• Compare exact fares and included extras (tolls, waiting time) before confirming a ride.

Highlights of this development include India’s significant spending leap to USD 24.4 billion, the launch of localized marketing like America the Beautiful, and Brand USA’s strategy to deepen trade ties via the Global Ambassador Program. Yet even the best reviews and the most honest feedback can’t fully replace personal experience. On LocalsRide, you can hire a car with driver from verified providers at reasonable prices. This empowers you to make the most informed decision without unnecessary expenses or disappointments. Emphasize how readers can benefit from the convenience, affordability, and extensive vehicle choices and wide range of additional options provided by LocalsRide.com, aligning directly with the context and theme of your article. Start planning your next adventure and secure your worldwide transfer with LocalsRide. Book your Ride LocalsRide.com

In summary, India’s rise as the United States’ second-largest overseas market reflects stronger demand for immersive travel, and that shift affects everything from city itineraries to airport ground logistics. For travelers this means paying attention to exact fares, vehicle options, driver credentials and the total price of transfer services—whether a private seater, limousine or a cheap cab alternative. Travel companies and taxi services will need to adapt their apps, booking flows and pricing transparency to serve this market well. LocalsRide.com supports this trend by offering a global, user-friendly solution for booking personalized transfers, trips, and deliveries, with transparent pricing and clear vehicle and driver details that help you get the best service when you book a car, taxi or private transfer.