Aussies are full of wanderlust – but can we afford to tick off our travel bucket list?

Singapore Tourism Board

Booking.com, one of the world’s leading online travel companies, has released the 2023 edition of its APAC Travel Confidence Index (TCI) today. This year’s index reveals a striking paradox: despite financial concerns ranking highest amongst travel concerns (51%), a majority of Aussie travellers (65%) maintain optimism for their future travel plans over the next 12 months.

Most Aussie travellers (63%) reported having no intention of postponing their travel plans, despite issues such as the rising cost of living, inflation, climate change and supply chain disruptions. Additionally, 53% of these travellers not only remain steadfast in their original travel plans but intend to increase both the trips they take and their travel budgets for the year.

The study also revealed that the need to save money currently is at odds with the incentive to travel sustainably, with just a quarter of Aussies (26%) willing to pay more for sustainable accommodation.

The TCI 2023 research, commissioned by Booking.com, surveyed over 8,000 travellers from 11 countries and territories across the Asia-Pacific region, including Australia, China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. Conducted between April and May 2023, it presents an in-depth analysis of travel confidence and sustainability interest across APAC.

The report also reveals four distinctive traveller personas for the first time, providing valuable insights into their prime motivations, priorities and travel behaviours:

• Comfort Seekers (Singapore, Australia) prioritise comfort and convenience, seeking indulgent experiences and accommodations with maximum relaxation. They value personalised services, high-quality amenities, prioritising comfort.
• Conscious Explorers (Hong Kong, India, China, Taiwan) actively pursue eco-friendly and sustainable travel. They are passionate about exploring while minimising environmental impact.
• Mindful Voyagers (Vietnam) have a deliberate and thoughtful travel approach, driven by their sense of responsibility to the environment and desire to help local communities.
• Homebound Pragmatists (New Zealand, Korea, Japan, Thailand) prefer practical travel and staying close to home. They prioritise convenience, efficiency, and optimising time and resources.

A Snapshot of Aussie Travel Confidence

Aussies are not oblivious to the importance of managing their travel expenses effectively, and exhibit resourcefulness in planning their trips. When it comes to cost-cutting strategies, 58% opt for budget-friendly accommodation options, 36% choose to travel during off-peak times, 34% spend less on food and activities whilst travelling, and 31% select a less expensive travel destination.

Given the current stresses of everyday life, Aussie travellers are seeking out relaxing holidays to escape from reality. They are driven by their passions, showcasing a clear appreciation for the world and its wonders. The top five things Aussie’s are seeking in 2023 are:

• 57% are looking for captivating scenery and nature
• 53% are prioritising food and dining experiences
• 53% of Aussies are still opting for the feeling of home with the sunny, beach and island style.
• 44% looking to visit famous tourist attractions and landmarks
• 42% immersing themselves in the local culture or lifestyle

“In the face of economic uncertainty, it's refreshing to see Aussie’s adventurous spirit lives on in their healthy appetite for continuing to explore their own backyard, as well as the world beyond our borders” said Todd Lacey, Regional Manager Oceania, at Booking.com.

"It's clear that travel will continue to be a priority for Australian travellers who are thinking smartly about how they prioritise their spend so they don’t miss out on experiences. Despite being one of the last countries to return to travel in 2023”

Australia.com

To further support travel recovery and demand, we’ve invested in events such as FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia and New Zealand, attracting thousands of travellers into and around the country. At Booking.com, we remain committed to making it easier for travellers to search, book and enjoy their perfect holiday and better experience the world.”

For more information about Booking.com’s Travel Confidence Index 2023 research and to access the full report for Australia, please see here.

1 Phocuswright Research, Asia-Pacific Travel Market Report 2021-2025, February 2023

* Australia Press Office; bookingau@redhavas.com
Helena Hampshire helena.hampshire@redhavas.com