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Do Aussie travellers really want deals? How to win clients beyond discounts

Are special offers really the magic bullet for attracting Aussie travellers—or are they just a short-term fix? According to Expedia’s TAAP Traveller Research Report, deals remain important, but they’re not the main reason clients stay loyal.

Are special offers really the magic bullet for attracting Aussie travellers—or are they just a short-term fix? According to Expedia’s TAAP Traveller Research Report, deals remain important, but they’re not the main reason clients stay loyal.

So how can travel agents leverage special offers without relying on them entirely? Here’s what the data reveals.

Do Aussies want deals—or something more?

Australian travellers love a bargain, but they’re savvy enough to know price isn’t everything. Here’s what keeps them coming back:

  • 57% stick around for exceptional customer service.
  • 53% prioritise clear and proactive communication.
  • 51% are drawn in by deals and special offers.

The insight? Deals attract attention, but service wins loyalty.

A great deal gets travellers in the door, but a travel agent keeps them coming back with expert advice, tailored service, and seamless trip planning.
A great deal gets travellers in the door, but a travel agent keeps them coming back with expert advice, tailored service, and seamless trip planning.

Which deals actually matter to Aussie travellers?

Not all offers resonate equally. The deals that Aussies genuinely value are:

  • Value-add extras – Free upgrades, complimentary breakfast, or exclusive inclusions resonate more than flat discounts.
  • Loyalty perks – Frequent travellers appreciate recognition through perks and personalised rewards.
  • Package savings – Bundled packages offering convenience and genuine savings are consistently popular.
  • Urgent, limited-time promotions – Short-term deals create urgency, driving faster bookings.

How agents can use deals strategically

  1. Highlight exclusivity – Show clients they’re getting something special that’s unavailable elsewhere.
  2. Position deals as added value – Frame deals around the overall travel experience rather than purely price-focused.
  3. Combine perks with service – Offer excellent customer care alongside deals to reinforce long-term loyalty.
  4. Educate on the real value – Help clients see that the cheapest option isn’t always the best, and emphasise flexibility and support as part of the offer.

The takeaway: Aussies want more than a bargain

Deals might get clients in the door, but exceptional service and clear communication keep them coming back. Agents who balance compelling offers with outstanding client care will thrive in 2025.