Hongkongers make 1.4 million outbound trips over Lunar New Year break, up 20% from 2019
South China Morning Post
by Wynna WongFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Hongkongers made a significant leap in outbound travel during the Lunar New Year holiday, with more than 1.44 million trips recorded from Lunar New Year’s Eve to the third day of the break. This marked a 20.4% increase compared to the same period in 2019, highlighting a strong resurgence in travel after years of pandemic restrictions. The data, released by the Immigration Department, underscores the growing confidence among Hong Kong residents to explore destinations abroad.
Despite the surge in outbound trips, the number of mainland Chinese visitors remained below pre-pandemic levels. This shift reflects broader changes in travel patterns post-COVID-19, as Hongkongers increasingly opt for international destinations over domestic travel from the mainland. The figures also suggest a gradual recovery in global mobility, with Hong Kong serving as a key hub for regional and international travel.
This rise in outbound travel is not just a local story; it has significant implications for the global tourism industry. As restrictions ease and economies recover, such data points signal a potential rebound in international travel demand. For Hong Kong, this could bolster its position as a major transit and tourist destination, bringing economic benefits to both the city and surrounding regions. The trend also highlights the resilience of travel behavior, with people rekindling their passion for exploration after prolonged periods of confinement.
The Lunar New Year travel boom in Hong Kong is part of a larger narrative of recovery and adaptation in the post-pandemic world. It speaks to the enduring human desire to connect with
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026