Australia is officially in its staycation era, and the numbers prove it. After years of unpredictable borders, rising costs, and a renewed love for our own backyard, domestic travel has exploded, so much so that domestic flight bookings jumped a massive 106% immediately after Boxing Day this year. And with summer rolling in, it’s clear Aussies are choosing to explore their own country more than ever.
So what’s behind the surge? And what does it mean for the way Australians are planning their summer getaways?
Let’s unpack the trend.
1. Domestic Travel Is Simply More Practical Right Now
With cost-of-living pressures refusing to ease up, many Aussies are swapping international long hauls for quick, convenient domestic breaks. The reasons are obvious:
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No jet lag
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No long-haul flight costs
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Easier to take shorter trips
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More flexibility with cancellations and bookings
Plus, many families are prioritising multiple weekend escapes instead of one huge overseas trip, a trend that’s reshaping Australia’s tourism landscape.
2. Regional Destinations Are Thriving
It’s not just Sydney and Melbourne soaking up the demand. Smaller regions are having a moment too.
Destinations like:
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Gold Coast & Sunshine Coast — always favourites, but now seeing record early bookings.
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Tasmania — cooler weather, wildlife, and gourmet trails.
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Cairns & Port Douglas — reef tourism has bounced back stronger than expected.
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The Kimberley — a growing bucket-list destination for domestic adventurers.
As more Aussies choose internal adventures, regional tourism operators are hiring, upgrading, and innovating like never before.
3. It Might Be Busy… But It’s Good News
More local travel equals:
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Stronger regional economies
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More tourism jobs
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More investment in infrastructure
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Better flight routes and competitive pricing
The only downside? Accommodation is filling fast.
Where to Next?
If you’re planning a summer getaway, experts say:
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Book domestic flights early
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Avoid peak dates (like NYE and Australia Day long weekends)
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Explore lesser-known regional towns (cheaper + quieter!)
Australia is vast, beautiful, and more popular than ever — and this summer might just be the biggest domestic travel season yet.