Expedia study reveals Aussies plan to take an extra week of annual leave this year

Following a challenging year where for many, every aspect of life was impacted, Expedia’s annual Vacation Deprivation report reveals Aussies are planning to go big on holidays in 2021. After taking just 11 days of leave last year, Aussies are making it a priority to take advantage of their days off more than ever, with survey results showing they plan to take an extra week (five days) of leave in 2021 (total of 16 days).

Holiday deprivation is at an all-time high

Between grounded planes, border restrictions and stay-at-home orders, it’s no surprise vacation deprivation is at an all-time high amongst Aussies. Survey results show nearly two-thirds (65%) state they feel holiday deprived, almost a 10% jump from the previous year (56%), ranking the nation as the sixth most vacation deprived country in the world.

According to the survey, 29% took their last holiday six to nine months ago, while more than a third (34%) state their last holiday was spent at home, not travelling anywhere.

Looking ahead: Aussies prepared to spend on future trips

As the hopes for future travel in 2021 grows, Expedia is already seeing a positive shift in Aussies’ attitudes towards travel. The report indicates more than a quarter (26%) have already booked in holidays for the year ahead, while 31% are planning on taking more holidays to make up for 2020.

Aussies are also getting ready to fulfill their pent-up travel desires by splurging on their bucket list trips. Whether it’s trying a new activity or seeking out a place untraveled, 62% are willing to spend more on their bucket list holiday than originally planned, while 61% said their travel bucket list budget for 2021 has increased because of the pandemic.

As Aussies continue to wait for international travel to reopen, Expedia data indicates many are still interested in exploring their backyard, with five out of the top ten destinations found in Queensland*.

Australians top searched destinations for 2021

1. Gold Coast
2. Sydney
3. North Coast, NSW
4. Sunshine Coast
5. Melbourne
6. Whitsundays
7. Brisbane
8. Cairns
9. South Coast, NSW
10. Perth

Most Vacation Deprived Countries

• Singapore 71%
• Italy 71%
• South Korea 70%
• France 70%
• Malaysia 68%
• Australia 65%
• USA 64%

Holiday-mode on mind reset

Having been deprived of holidays in 2020, Aussies are placing more importance in their future trips, with 86% saying they now value holidays more than ever before – higher than the global average of 81%. This mind-reset in the meaning of a holiday, has encouraged Aussies to embrace their trips as more than just ‘time off work’, but as an opportunity to maximise their time with experiences and spending quality time with family and friends. Additionally, 84% respondents recognise that travel can help create important memories and is one of the best things to come out of the pandemic.

Flexibility takes precedence for travel in the ‘new normal’

There is no doubt that travel in the ‘new normal’ will require a significant mental and emotional shift. At the same time, travel booking behaviours have also evolved in response to the recent developments that have influenced their decision-making criteria.

Refundable travel options have become a pre-requisite for many travellers, with 30% of Aussies saying they will only book travel that is fully refundable in case they don’t feel comfortable travelling. 23% said they intend to book last-minute travel when they know that it is safe to do so, while 35% said they are waiting until the latter half of the year to do any travel.

Alex Ozdowski, Expedia Director, Australia says: “Aussies are some of the world’s most avid travellers, and despite being stuck on this big island for a year, it’s humbling and encouraging to see their passion for travel hasn’t wavered. Instead, it continues to grow, with many adding new destinations to their bucket lists and cherishing those special moments more.”

“We understand planning a holiday can be stressful and with the added uncertainty in this new normal, we want to make the process as simple and fun. As Aussies continue to plan and book their future trips, Expedia is committed to providing travellers the right information and tools they need to feel confident and excited about travelling again.”

*Based on lodging interest on Expedia.com.au between Jan 1, 2020 – Dec 31, 2020 for travel in 2021

About the Vacation Deprivation Study

Expedia first commissioned Vacation Deprivation in 2000 to examine the work-life balance of Americans. The annual study is currently in its 21st year and was conducted online among 9,200 respondents across North and South America, Europe and Asia-Pacific including Australia and New Zealand. Commissioned from November 18-December 9, 2020 on behalf of Expedia by Northstar Research Partners, a global strategic research firm, responses were gathered using an amalgamated group of best-in-class panels. Looking at the margin of error for the global average, a 1% difference is statistically significant at 90% confidence.

Important Considerations for Valuable Holiday Time

• Spending quality time with my family 66%
• Not having to check work/personal emails or messages 57%
• Sightseeing activities and visiting tourist attractions 53%
• Travel and holidays are times to discover the best of what life offers 56%
• Activities that are engaging and enjoyable for all my family members 50%

About Expedia

Expedia® is one of the world's largest full-service travel sites, helping Australians and New Zealanders easily plan and book travel. Expedia is a one-stop-shop and aims to provide the latest technology and the widest selection of top holiday destinations, affordable airfares, hotel deals, car rentals, cruise deals and in-destination activities and attractions.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au