It's a fact: Aussies spend more money on experiences and nightlife while travelling than any other nation in the world. A recent report has revealed that despite the rising cost of living, we’re not letting go of our love for travel and our travel habits are evolving as we prioritise meaningful experiences and save up for those unforgettable trips. Here are this year’s top travel trends so far.
Eventful Economy
We're planning our travels around memorable occasions like concerts, sporting occasions and natural events like solar eclipses. If you didn’t get to a match during last year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup, the Women’s Rugby World Cup is being played in England in 2025. Missed out on Taylor Swift tickets? How about seeing Billie Eilish live in Europe between April and July next year? For a real spectacle, head to Rio de Janeiro for the cultural phenomenon that is Carnival with all the sights and sounds of dazzling outfits and rhythmic drums. For more inspiration, explore our exclusive collection of event packages offering unique and private experiences around the world.
Experiences and Nightlife
Experiential-oriented spend is at its highest point in five years and Australian travellers are leading the charge with nearly 20% of our holiday dollar going towards activities and nightlife compared to the global average of 12%. Immersive experiences give you a more authentic and longer-lasting appreciation of your destination. Whether it’s cooking and eating dinner with a Bedouin family in Petra, barhopping in the backstreets of Tokyo’s Shinjuku district, fishing from a 100-year old boat in Lofoten or learning about indigenous Andean heritage through textile weaving – there really is a world to experience, so seize the moment and soak up every bit!
Leisure for Longer
When you're dreaming of getting away, jump on the bandwagon and do what others are doing and extend your holiday. Australians are travelling for an extra day on average and an extra two days for our evergreen favourite, Europe. It's all about the affordability and the sunshine. The cheaper the destination, the longer we stick around. And who can resist soaking up the sun in those warmer spots?
Top Destinations
Curious about where travellers are flocking to in 2024? Japan steals the spotlight as the ultimate destination for its mix of modern and traditional, natural beauty and big city buzz. Europe takes the next four spots with Ireland, Romania, Italy and Spain rounding out the top five. Cruises are also making a strong comeback, helped along by an increasing number of younger travellers, with one third of all cruise passengers currently aged under 40.
Shopping and Dining
Tourism shopping for luxury apparel has skyrocketed by more than 40% so far this year, so the next time you're tempted to splurge on a special memento from your trip, go for it! Travellers are also indulging in dining experiences, including on a newcomer to the cuisine scene with fine dining in Indian on the rise. With local flavours one of the keys to uncovering a destination, think about making food the star of your holiday on a dedicated food tour mixing culture and adventure with a big serving of deliciousness.
Ready to follow the hottest travel trends of 2024? Reach out to your Travellers Choice agent to book your next epic adventure!
