Australians are packing their bags and their 2026 travel bucket lists with a new study revealing what Aussies really want to experience with generational preferences shaping holiday plans.
The iSelect survey found a clear preference for laidback or indulgent holidays over adrenaline-fuelled escapes with luxury resort stays topping 2026 travel bucket lists.
More than one-third (36.4%) of respondents were keen to add an indulgent stay in a 5-star beach resort to their ultimate 2026 travel bucket lists.
Visiting world wonders, such as Machu Picchu, Taj Mahal and the Great Wall of China, also ranked highly as must-visit destinations for 32.6 per cent, while an equal number (32.3%) would opt for a cruise holiday.
More than a quarter of Aussies (26.6%) are keen for cross-country road trips, while one in five (19.6%) would book a safari adventure as their ultimate holiday in 2026 travel bucket lists.
Hiking famous trails, such as the Camino de Santiago, also rank highly among Aussies, along with scuba diving or snorkelling on a reef; cultural immersion activities, such as cooking classes; hot-air ballooning and skiing and snowboarding.
iSelect comparison expert Sophie Ryan said there was a clear preference for more laidback or indulgent holidays, particularly among Aussie Gen Xers, in the 2026 travel bucket lists survey.
“Mid-late career people with families just want to relax on their holidays, so we see a move away from thrill-seeking and risk-taking in that group,” she said.
“Millennials and Gen Z were much more likely to have activities like scuba diving, hiking and safari adventures on the agenda.
“Meanwhile, cruises were the top experience for Baby Boomers with as many as 41 per cent of people in that demographic adding a nautical getaway to their wish list.”
For advisors, Gen X clients may respond best to premium resort packages and all-inclusive comfort, while Millennials and Gen Z remain open to experiential, adventure-led itineraries and Baby Boomers continue to show strong cruise intent.
KARRYON UNPACKS: The research highlights an opportunity for travel advisors to curate indulgent yet meaningful escapes that balance relaxation with bucket-list appeal.
