Despite cost-of-living pressures, almost one in two Australians are prioritising travel savings for 2026, proving experiences still matter more than milestones.
Australians continue to prioritise travel as a top 2026 savings goal with 46 per cent of Aussies putting their money towards a holiday for the second year in a row. Here’s who is travelling and when and where Aussies are going overseas in 2026.
Who is driving travel demand?
The latest Money.com.au survey shows most Aussies consider travel as a top 2026 savings goal, ranking higher than banking emergency funds (42%), saving for retirement (35%) and buying a home (26%).
The study found Baby Boomers were most likely to prioritise travel in their top 2026 savings goals (53%), followed by Gen Z (50%), Gen X (45%) and Millennials (34%).
The trend is clear among younger Australians in their 20s and 30s who increasingly value travel experiences over traditional life milestones, such as homeownership.
It aligns with similar studies that show Gen Zers seek meaningful experiences and social and cultural connections in small groups and lesser-known destinations when travelling.
Where and when are Aussies travelling?
ABS data shows the number of short-term overseas trips taken by Australians rose by 9.2 per cent in the year to October 2025, compared with the previous year, led by Japan, New Zealand, Vietnam and Singapore.
Figures show January, July and October are the busiest months for Australians returning from overseas trips, aligning with school holidays and peak travel seasons in popular destinations, such as the US, Europe and Japan.
The research found Aussies take eight months on average to save for an overseas holiday, highlighting they are willing to take the time to plan and invest in travel in 2026.
Money.com.au finance expert Sean Callery said travel is one of the few financial goals that still feels achievable and emotionally rewarding for many Aussies.
“Most people can realistically plan for, budget toward and genuinely look forward to an overseas trip within a year, so it’s no wonder it remains a strong priority for Australians, even as cost-of-living pressures continue,” he said.
KARRYON UNPACKS: Travel continues to outrank traditional financial goals for Australians, highlighting an enduring appetite for experience-led living and a major opportunity for advisors to help travellers turn their 2026 savings goals into adventures.
