No Passport, No Problem: Contiki Helps Young Aussies Unlock Europe in 2026

Paris

A breakthrough offer is making dream European adventures more accessible than ever for young Australian travellers.

 

Contiki Removes One of the Biggest Barriers to Overseas Travel

For many young Australians, the world’s most expensive passport has long been the first major hurdle to international travel. With Australia’s passport costing $412, new Contiki and YouGov research shows the price tag is holding thousands back from booking their dream escape. Now, Contiki is stepping in with a bold solution that is set to transform travel plans in 2026.

A recent survey of 1,017 Gen Z and Millennial Australians found strong enthusiasm for overseas travel, with 94% eager to explore new cultures, create lifelong memories and experience the growth that travel brings. Despite this, 82% of respondents say they face significant barriers to travelling – and for many, the cost of simply getting a passport is the biggest stumbling block.

 

A Passport Paid For: Contiki’s Game-Changing Euro’26 Offer

In a move designed to break down financial barriers, Contiki is covering the $412 passport fee for eligible travellers who book a valid Euro’26 trip before 25 December. With one in five young Australians reporting that the cost of obtaining a passport restricts their ability to travel, this initiative aims to remove the barrier completely.

New Zealand

Research revealed that nearly one in three young Australians who have never been overseas cite passport costs as a major obstacle, while 20% say the cost alone stops them from even starting to plan a trip. More than two in five have delayed, cancelled or reconsidered travel altogether because of passport expenses.

Toni Ambler, Chief Customer Officer for Contiki, says the program reflects Contiki’s long-standing commitment to helping young people see more of the world. She notes that young Australians have an undeniable desire for adventure, but they often need help taking the first step.

 

What Young Aussies Really Think About Passports and Travel

Contiki’s research revealed just how much the passport price tag affects young Australians:

• 85% of Gen Z and Millennials without a passport say they would book an overseas trip if they received a free passport.
• 71% think the cost of an Australian passport is too expensive.
• Almost half were unaware that the Australian passport is the most expensive in the world.

As young travellers gain more experience, their barriers shift. Those who have travelled overseas before are more likely to cite time off work or study as their biggest challenge, while new travellers remain stuck at step one: getting the passport itself.

 

Europe 2026: A New Era of Youth Travel Begins

Florence

Contiki’s 2026 European trips, from the European Adventurer to Greek Island Hopping, are designed for young travellers craving authentic, memorable experiences. With the passport cost removed, these trips become far more attainable for Aussies dreaming of exploring Europe’s cultures, landscapes and iconic cities.

Contiki’s initiative offers a gateway for young Australians to finally step into the world, with experiences that promise personal growth, new friendships and unforgettable moments.

For more details on Contiki’s passport initiative, visit: contiki.com/en-au/activity/passports

 

Unlocking the Freedom to Explore

At a time when rising living costs are impacting young Australians, Contiki’s decision to cover passport fees is more than a promotion. It is a deliberate commitment to support a generation eager to travel but constrained by financial pressures.

Contiki believes that travel should be accessible, transformative and within reach – and by removing the cost of the world’s most expensive passport, the brand is helping young Australians say yes to Europe, yes to adventure and yes to the world.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/