Karryon launched twelve years ago, on April 1st, 2013. Some would say it was a risky date to start a new venture, but hey, we’ve never been afraid to leap, try something new, or back an idea that felt a little different. In fact, we’ve built a business on doing just that.
I still think some people thought at the time that launching Karryon on April 1 really was an April Fool.
Thankfully, what started as a bold idea has blossomed into something far more significant—a much-loved brand and platform, a passionate team, a community, and a purpose-led movement that puts people first. Today, it’s both humbling and rewarding to know that Karryon is now considered one of the most trusted media voices in our industry.
So on our 12th birthday, we’re pausing to reflect—and most importantly, to say thank you.
Thank you to every single person who has joined us, challenged us, supported us, and travelled alongside us since the very beginning. Whether you’re a partner, reader, contributor, collaborator, or friend of the brand, you’ve helped shape Karryon into what it is today.
Together in Travel: Our North Star
Our tagline, Together in Travel, has always been more than just words. It’s our guiding mantra to make a difference every day.
It speaks to the belief that our industry is stronger when we’re united—when we lift each other, stay curious, and choose connection and collaboration over competition. It’s about people, not just products. It’s about purpose, not just profit. It’s about impact, not just impressions.
Karryon was never built to be about us. It’s always been about everybody. That’s why we’re proud that so many of our stories come directly from our readers—agents, advisors, tour leaders, marketers, and business owners—sharing their experiences peer-to-peer. Real voices, real talk, real community.
Over the past 12 years, we’ve been privileged to share over 80,000 of these stories. From front-line agents to global leaders, from grassroots changemakers to luxury innovators. We’ve covered crisis and comeback, hardship and innovation, heartbreak and healing. Through it all, one truth has remained: The travel industry is powered by incredible people with stories to share.
Trying. Failing. Growing. Trusting.
Throughout our journey, we’ve tried many new things. Some worked brilliantly, and others… not so much.
We’ve tested new formats, explored different platforms, and reimagined what travel media and events could be. That spirit of curiosity—our willingness to experiment, stay open, and adapt—has quietly shaped who we are.
But one thing has always remained constant: trust.
We’re grateful to be considered a trusted voice in the industry—a place people turn to for news, perspective, connection, and conversation. That trust has been earned slowly, over time, by consistently showing up, telling the truth, lifting others, and staying true to our values.
To our partners: Thank you for believing in us
To our commercial partners—thank you. You’ve helped bring this platform to life. Your support funds more than just campaigns—it enables independent storytelling that serves the whole industry.
Because of you, Karryon remains completely free to access for everyone. There are no subscriptions, paywalls, hidden content, or megalomaniac owners bending the narrative. And in 2025, that’s no small thing.
Accessible and trusted travel media matters more than ever, and your belief in what we’re building helps keep it that way.
We’ve also been proud to give back—supporting numerous charities, community groups, and ‘for good’ travel initiatives both financially and pro bono. From amplifying and funding the work of First Nations rangers and changemakers to promoting sustainability campaigns and grassroots regeneration programs, we know that when travel does good, everyone benefits.
Whether you’ve been with us for 12 years or just discovered us, thank you for backing us.
To our readers: You are Karryon
And to our loyal readers—you are everything.
You’ve made this platform what it is by showing up, speaking out, and sharing your stories. You keep us honest, informed, and inspired.
Karryon is stronger because of your voices. Whether you’ve contributed a quote, sent a tip, challenged a headline, or written an entire piece, thank you. This has always been a two-way conversation, and your willingness to share peer-to-peer is what sets this community apart. Please keep the good stuff coming!
Looking ahead
In the last couple of years, we’ve formed new events and collaborations, such as Niche is Nice and Open Mindset, launched our luxury vertical, expanded our scope for good coverage, and strengthened our tech platforms. Most recently, we started our Karryon Travel Advisor Board, a first-of-its-kind initiative created to ensure we deliver the stories that matter.
And there’s much more to come.
We know the media landscape is changing, budgets are tight, and competition is high. But our mission is more focused than ever—to stay bold, stay curious, and stay together.
Twelve years in digital media is no small feat. But we’re still here—still growing, still listening, still dreaming.
So today, we celebrate you!
There’s no party this year (although we’re never saying no to cake). But there is gratitude—and a lot of it.
To every partner, reader, team member, and believer—thank you. This milestone belongs to all of us.
Here’s to the next chapter—together in travel, always.
Matt, Dani, & The Karryon Team
If you’d like to share a memory, story, idea or message with us about your experience of Karryon, we’d love to hear it! Drop us a line at dani@karryon.com.au, editor@karryon.com.au or matt@karryon.com.au
