Bad exchange rate leads to a drop in Aussies travelling to the US

Bad exchange rate leads to a drop in Aussies travelling to the US

When the New York Times runs an article titled ‘Where to get the most bang for your buck’ aimed at frugal travellers, Australia seems an unlikely option.

But given the weak exchange rate, Australia appeared at the top of the list, in the article a fortnight ago, as an “unexpected” place to get value for money. Currently, the US dollar is worth about 1.50 Australian dollars, up 16 per cent over the past three years.

Whilst this might be good news for Americans, it’s not so good news for Aussies travelling in the opposite direction. Multiple travel agents told Travel Weekly they’ve experienced a significant drop in Australians travelling to the States.

“I used to get a lot of people going to America for holidays but now it is mostly people visiting their families,” one agent said. A decrease in how far the Aussie dollar goes in terms of hotel choices and food was one of the reasons for the drop they said.

Another agent said they had seen a sharp decrease in customers going from Perth, given the high fees, the exchange rate, and the fact Europe is closer.

Meanwhile, founder of Travel Agent Finder Anna Shannon said she’d seen a “huge decrease” in the number of leads coming through the website for the US. US inquiries were down 65 per cent in the last six months compared to the same period last year, she said.

As well as the exchange rate, hidden costs such as resort fees can also make the US an expensive location for Australians.

Resort fees are non-optional fees paid for use of the facilities such as swimming pools, Wi-Fi and gyms. The average resort fee is around US$42.41 (AU$64) a day which could add up to as much as $450 for a week’s stay.

Whilst only 6 per cent of hotels in the US charge the fee, they are popular in tourist hot spots such as New York, LA, Las Vagas and Hawaii.

It is not all bad news, however, savvy tourists and agents who do their research can get ahead of the curve by sourcing out hotels that wave the fees, booking on points, and joining hotel loyalty programs. For example, some brands such as Hilton Honors and World of Hyatt wave fees on award stays. Nerdwallet says using hotel credit cards is a great way to build up points. 

Equally, steering clear of some of the main tourist hotspots can also be a great way to experience the US more cheaply. Destinations such as the national parks, Nashville, New Orleans and San Diago can offer slightly cheaper travel options.

Featured image: IMG2GO AI art generator 

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

budget us

Latest News

  • Destinations
  • News

Australia is a ‘vital market’ for the USA travel industry

Visit USA Australia hosted its Mid-Year Market Review yesterday at the W Sydney, bringing together industry leaders and partners for a comprehensive overview of  recent U.S. travel data.  With insights from special guest David Huether, deputy director of research at the National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO), the event highlighted the latest tools and data […]

  • Tour Operators

Holland America Line announces rates for 2025 Grand World Voyages

Holland America Line is now offering Aussie travellers new rates for 2025 Grand World Voyage Cruises which includes iconic destinations. The Grand World Voyage’s updated itineraries across Holland America Line’s 37-day Grand World Voyage, departing Fort Lauderdale to Sydney, will be available starting at $12,450pp twin share for an interior stateroom, while the 42-day Grand […]

  • Tour Operators

Abercrombie & Kent launches extensive collection of luxury small group journeys for 2025

Pioneering luxury travel company, Abercrombie & Kent, has announced its most extensive and diverse portfolio of luxury small group journeys with its 2025 collection. It features more than 25 new, exclusive itineraries that reflect the evolving interest of discerning travellers and takes them to the near and far corners of the globe. A resurgence of […]

  • Attractions
  • Destinations

Castaway Island, Fiji, announces the grand opening of its new water park

The premier beach destination within OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels, Castaway Island, Fiji, announces the grand opening of its much-awaited water park. The new water park is the standout feature of OUTRIGGER Resorts’ 2024 Elevate initiative. Guests will be treated to an assortment of attractions that include a trampoline, water slide, swing, tower, and more. All […]

  • Destinations

Scenic Rim provides luxury escapes to the countryside this Winter

Warm up in winter with luxury escapes to the countryside in the Scenic Rim, including a wood-fired hot tub under the stars, mountains, lakes, and farmstays. There are various packages awaiting travellers looking for a quick getaway from the busy city. Moogie House, Glamping & Pod Accommodation – Lake Moogerah Guests can escape to the […]

  • Aviation

Air Tahiti Nui launches special edition surfing magazine

Flagship carrier Air Tahiti Nui, has launched a special edition magazine, Horue, to celebrate the special connection between Tahiti and surfing. A notion common to several Polynesian languages, “horue” expresses the depths of the ocean which the hollows of a great wave allows us to catch a glimpse of. Detailing the history of surfing in […]

  • Attractions
  • Hotels

Capella Sydney partners with Whale Watching Sydney to launch a new Family Moments package

Capella Sydney has partnered with Whale Watching Sydney to launch a new Family Moments package designed for families seeking a blend of luxury accommodation and adventure during the whale-watching season.  Capella Sydney, just 400m from Sydney Harbour, blends heritage and contemporary design with world-class accommodation and dining experiences, along with a wellness centre featuring a […]

  • Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line expands collection of European cruisetours

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced the expansion of its European collection to provide more choice, value, and destinations. The new NCL additions are available in 11 ports through November 2025 and combine select sailings with multi-day immersive land exploration for a seamless cruise holiday experience. Lisbon, Portugal has just been added to the collection of […]

  • Hotels

Sheraton Resort and Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji reopens following renovation

The Sheraton Resort and Spa, Tokoriki Island, Fiji, has welcomed back guests to rediscover the beauty of this exhilarating haven after a multi-million-dollar renovation at the venue. The resort offers 101 guest rooms tailored for travellers seeking an island paradise getaway. They can choose between ocean-front views or secluded retreat rooms nestled within lush gardens. […]

  • Tour Operators

Explore Worldwide launches upgraded collection for 2025

Leading small group adventure specialist, Explore Worldwide, has announced its new upgraded collection comprising 18 new tours across four continents. The upgraded collection includes destinations such as Turkey, Jordan, Peru, Vietnam, Botswana and Morocco. They all have the key ingredients of a typical Explore holiday with small groups, an expert tour leader, unforgettable experiences, and […]

  • Food & Beverage
  • Hotels

TV chef Manu Feildel tries his hand at Bistro Red Lion

Who says Sydney’s dining scene is on the ropes. Despite promising to “never, ever” open a restaurant again, TV chef Manu Feildel is now on pans at a 196-year-old pub in Sydney’s inner west. Owned by the Laundy family, the Red Lion pub will soon be home to Bistro Red Lion by Manu which will […]