Australians will embrace the current reality and plan trips with purpose next year as new predictions highlight how the cost of living, exchange rates, climate change and close-to-home destinations are shaping travel around priorities and passion.
Skyscanner’s annual 2026 Travel Trends Report found Aussies want their travel to be “worth it” and offer value for money, continuing their search for budget-friendly destinations and affordable flights.
Flight costs are top of mind with two in three (68%) Aussies saying airfares are the biggest factor when choosing where to holiday.
Aussies are looking for creative ways to travel in 2026 to stretch their budget further with destinations such as Tasmania, Ireland, Samoa, Poland and Germany highlighted as the top spots with flight price reductions.
Likewise, Aussies are travelling to smaller, lesser-known destinations for unique experiences and to make meaningful memories, including places closer to home, such as New Zealand, Vietnam, Bhutan, Palau and Indonesia.
Alpine and high altitude areas are also having a moment with the likes of the Atlas Mountains, Dolomites and Lake Annecy attracting year-round interest as off-peak seasons become just as popular as winter.
Accommodation costs are another key consideration for 63 per cent when selecting destinations, showing value remains a top priority.
Weather also plays a key role: 66 per cent of Aussies say it’s a major factor in picking a holiday spot with sunny destinations a clear preference.
More than two-thirds of Australians will also choose destinations based on what there is to see and do.
These purpose-driven 2026 travel trends are reflected in trips for personal reasons, such as travelling for beauty hauls and rituals, visiting supermarkets abroad to eat local and purchase souvenirs, literary-led travel and hotels as the new destination as travellers chose stays for their design and ambience over location alone.
When it comes to connection through travel, global 2026 travel trends include the rise in family travel to spend quality time and make memories together and travelling to meet new people and unexpected connections on the way.
Skyscanner travel expert Brendan Walsh said: “Australian travellers are planning with greater purpose, seeking experiences that reflect their values while staying budget-conscious. Whether heading overseas or exploring closer to home, the focus is on meaningful travel that delivers real value.”
Read the full 2026 travel trends report here.
