New research from the Tourism & Transport Forum has found 25-44s to be the most prolific travellers this autumn.
The nationally representative survey of 1,509 Australians, which was conducted by Pure Profile between the 10-14 March, found that 83 per cent of 25-44s are planning a trip between 15 March – 15 May; markedly higher than the national average of 71 per cent.
“We’re seeing Millennials set the pace when it comes to prioritising travel this autumn. Australians in the 25-44 age bracket are not only the most prolific travellers but are also eager to explore international destinations,” TTF CEO Margy Osmond said.
Almost one in five (18 per cent) of 25-44s will be heading on an international trip. Since autumn last year, Australians are valuing overseas travel more, with 14 per cent headed abroad. This is compared to 8 per cent in a similar timeframe in 2024.
TTF’s research has seen New Zealand come in as the top international destination for autumn, knocking Europe out of the top spot from last year. 14 per cent of overseas travellers plan to jump over to our NZ neighbour, while 13 per cent are still intended on Europe. Meanwhile, 12 per cent are headed to Japan, 9 per cent to Thailand, and 8 per cent to Indonesia.
“Australia is a nation that prioritises travel, something that isn’t changing anytime soon. Looking to Autumn trips, we’re opting for closer international getaways and hunting travel deals. With a focus on nearby destinations and affordable travel packages, Aussies are making the most of their breaks without overspending,” Osmond said.
Forty per cent of those planning an autumn holiday plan to spend less than $2,000 on their entire trip, while 37 per cent look to spend between $2,000-$5,000.
“Aussies are ready to get out and explore beyond their own backyard again. However, this willingness to travel overseas is not completely indicative of the nation feeling less impacted by the cost of living, but more about our ability to sniff out a good travel deal,” Osmond added.
This research has also found that while autumn will see Aussies venture overseas, they will be less inclined to travel within their own state (35 per cent, versus 41 per cent in 2024). Meanwhile 22 per cent will holiday interstate, similar to last year.
The most popular state for Australians to visit this month will be NSW (29 per cent), followed by Victoria and Queensland (both 24 per cent).
The most popular city will be Sydney (11 per cent), then Melbourne (10 per cent), and Brisbane (5 per cent).
As the weather cools, Australians will also be chasing the heat with their travel plans. In addition to more international trips, the top three regional areas for travel are in sunny Queensland; the Gold Coast (8%per cent); the Sunshine Coast (4 per cent); Cairns, Port Douglas, Great Barrier Reef or surrounds (3 per cent).
“As the temperatures drop, domestic Australian travellers are flocking to regional hot spots like the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, and Cairns to soak up the remaining warmth. These popular domestic destinations offer the perfect escape for the tail end of summer, giving Aussies the chance to enjoy sunshine and beautiful beaches without leaving the country,” Osmond said.
“In great news for Queensland, visitors have not been put off by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred. The warmth offered by the Sunshine State continues to be a drawcard for travellers around Australia, with many seeking out regional hotspots as the weather begins to cool,” continued Osmond.
The survey also found that women plan to spend less money on their holiday than men, with 48 per cent looking to spend less than $2,000 (versus 32 per cent of men). 41 per cent of men plan to spend between $2,001 and $5,000. This is compared to 33 per cent of women.
“We can see a definitive split in spending habits between men and women in our autumn data. Women are looking to be as frugal as possible, with most only forking out $2,000 for a trip. Most men, on the other hand, will be spending up to $5,000.”
