Aussies continue to seek structured, experience-rich holidays with touring continuing to play a central role in shaping international travel choices, according to the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) annual Australians on Holiday Report.
Drawing on Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data, independent consumer research, and benchmarking insights derived from CATO’s accreditation program in 2024, the report presents a comprehensive view of Australia’s international leisure travel landscape.
In 2024, more than 6.9 million Aussies travelled overseas for holidays – a 21 per cent year-on-year increase.
A whopping 87 per cent of Australians are planning international travel with growing interest in multi-country itineraries, particularly across Europe and the Asia-Pacific region.
Trending regions
While growth was recorded across all regions, Asia was the standout, welcoming nearly four million Aussie holidaymakers last year. In particular, North-East Asia, including Japan and South Korea, surged by an impressive 73 per cent.
South and Central Asia achieved 31 per cent YOY growth in 2024, followed by South-East Asia at 25 per cent.
Sub-Saharan Africa saw a 23 per cent YOY rise, while the Americas rose by 11 per cent compared to 2023.
South-East Asia remains the dominant holiday destination for Aussies, accounting for 39 per cent of total travel in 2024.
Travel planning and preferences
Holidays under 14 days make up the bulk of outbound travel with 7–14 day trips growing by 27 per cent and trips under seven days’ duration increasing by 31 per cent over 2023.
Almost two in three (62%) travellers plan within six months, while almost one-third (32%) book six–12 months ahead, indicating flexibility and confidence in short- to mid-term planning cycles.
Touring boom
Touring sector spend now exceeds $5 billion as tour operators report strong momentum in small- group, active and luxury touring, particularly among the 50-plus market and adventure-driven travellers under 40. Youth travel has also shown a strong resurgence.
Passenger numbers for land-based, multi-day tours rose by almost 50 per cent (48%), despite a 22 per cent dip in average spend. Traditional coach touring remains on an upward trajectory.
Benchmarking data derived from CATO’s independent financial analysis shows 1.7 million Australians travelled with CATO members in 2024, close to one in four of all outbound holidaymakers.
CATO Managing Director Brett Jardine said as leisure travel continues to dominate the outbound market, touring continues to resonate with Australian holidaymakers.
“We’re seeing more Australians value the depth and convenience that touring offers – particularly in complex or culturally rich destinations,” he said.
“Whether it’s a traditional coach journey, a small or private group or a luxury rail journey, the appetite is strong and growing.”
Read the full report here.
