SUMMER HOLIDAY PLANS REVEALED AS AUSTRALIANS BRACE FOR AIRPORT RUSH

75% of Australians will travel for a holiday this summer, according to new research released by the Tourism & Transport Forum (TTF) Australia, as the nation’s airports gear up for their busiest period since the pandemic.

A national survey of 2,000 Australians, conducted by Pure Profile this month, reveals where and when Australians will travel between December and February, how much they plan to spend, if their pet will join them, their Christmas Day plans and more.

TTF CEO Margy Osmond said the tourism sector has high hopes for this year’s peak holiday season, as more Australians prepare to jet off for their summer break.

“It’s fantastic to see so many Aussies are holidaying here in Australia this year, helping support our local tourism operators, who’ll also benefit from more international visitors heading down under,” Ms Osmond said.

“Our airports are well-prepared to make this busy period as smooth as possible, with more Australians travelling overseas or interstate this year compared to last summer.”

“Passengers can make it easier by checking-in early online, arriving at the airport on time, reserving a carpark in advance if driving to the airport and being patient and respectful.”

The percentage of Australians travelling interstate has risen from 18 to 26% since last summer, and those travelling overseas increased from 6.5 to 14%, while more than a third of Australians will stay closer to home – choosing to holiday within their own state.

The most popular local destination for Australians is the Gold Coast, while the top overseas destination is New Zealand, followed by Europe and Japan, which has soared above Bali as a preferred holiday spot.

Ms Osmond said it’s great to see Australians are still setting aside savings for a holiday, even as cost-of-living pressures increase.

“Australians ranked travel and holidays as their number one priority when it comes to non-essential spending, showing just how important it is to enjoy a getaway with friends or family,” she said.

More than half of Australians say cost-of-living pressures have impacted their summer travel plans, with many shortening their trip or choosing cheaper accommodation.

ENDS