Increase in searches for flights indicate bumper second half of 2023

London, UK - June 28, 2016: Musical support from the Regimental Band during the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace in the summer.  The soldiers can be seen wearing scarlet tunics and bearskin caps
Edited by Travel Weekly


Data from a new KAYAK study has revealed that flight searches are up around 67 per cent for travel in the second half of 2023.

Compared to pre-pandemic numbers in 2019, domestic and international flights are up approximately 52 and 68 per cent respectively.

While return economy international airfares are up 51 per cent on average compared to pre-pandemic (average price of $1,826), domestic flight prices are sitting relatively flat having only risen 10 per cent on average (average price of $400)

Searches for international and domestic solo hotel stays are significantly up compared to pre-pandemic, having risen around 168 per cent since 2019.

“There is plenty of excitement amongst Aussies for travel over the remainder of the year and lots of opportunity to find a great deal, brand director, KAYAK, Nicola Carmichael, said.

“Taking the most searched destination London, opting to fly in October vs December could save you around $970 for a return economy flight.”

“The research also indicated that beach trips are part of many Aussies’ core memories, and iconic beach locations remain a great value option, including the Gold Coast at around $280 average for a return economy flight or the Sunshine Coast for about $317. For those after an affordable international getaway, then Vanuatu at $657 average return economy, or Bali at $734, both offer great prices for Aussie travellers.”

Most searched International destinations:

  • London
  • Bali
  • Tokyo
  • Paris
  • Los Angeles

Most searched domestic destinations:

  • Melbourne
  • Sydney
  • Cairns
  • Gold Coast
  • Perth

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